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How to Plan a Perfect Sicily Road Trip Itinerary (7-14 Days)

Want to plan an amazing Sicily road trip where you get a taste of everything that makes Sicily special? Like the well-preserved ruins from Greek and Roman (sometimes even before that!) times, the amazing bounty of fresh produce from fruits and vegetables to pistachios, and the sheer amount of natural beauty from the slopes of Mount Etna to the beaches of western Sicily.

In this detailed Sicily itinerary, we’ll help you plan a trip that sees all of those things and more. 

But first, why should you trust us?

We spent over three weeks on our own Sicily road trip, and loved every second of it. In fact, the majority of this guide was written while we were on the island, when the information and tips were completely fresh and details were still vivid in our minds.

Alysha’s grandparents were born in the small town of Melilli, near Siracusa, and emigrated to the United States from there just a few generations ago. She has wanted to visit Sicily for years, and we finally made it happen in 2021. 

Of course, I totally recognize that you only really care about our experience if it helps inform your trip planning. So we’ve put together an itinerary that uses our own personal experience on a road trip around Sicily to help you plan an amazing trip. 

In the guide below – which is very, very long – we’ll go through everything you need to know to plan your trip to Sicily. We’ll start with some very important basics – like how many days you need to see both eastern and western Sicily, and the best route to see the island in two weeks – and then we’ll go through a day-by-day, super detailed itinerary for two weeks in Sicily. 

Don’t have two weeks to spend? We get it, vacation time is limited (at least for us Americans). Which is why we’ve included our take on ways to structure a 7 and 10 day road trip in Sicily ABOVE the actual itinerary, so you can still use the information in the itinerary to plan your own trip even if it’s not a full two weeks. 

Sound good? Off we go to Sicily!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need in Sicily?

At a high level, we think you’re going to need at least two weeks (14 days) to see both eastern and western Sicily . Anything less than that and you’d need to cut some of the best sights in each region to try and fit it all in, which we would absolutely not recommend. 

Even two weeks is going to mean you’re just seeing the highlights. We’ve done our best to pick and choose between places you could go based on our own personal experiences exploring the island, but even with three weeks we made some tough decisions on things to skip. 

Any 7 or 10 day itinerary that has you spending one night in each place is unpractical (impractical doesn’t fit with the “un” thing I’ve got going on here – forgive me), unrealistic, and unpleasant.

Believe me, we’ve done things that way on previous trips, and choosing to spend more time in fewer places is almost always a good decision. 

With that in mind, if you have less than two weeks in Sicily, focus your time on either eastern or western Sicily, take your time, and explore a little deeper. 

The complete itinerary we’ve put together below is for 14 days, but we’ve also got a section outlining what to do with less time above that to help you figure out how to spend your time with 7-10 days.

The good news is that, once you’ve decided on a route, you can read through the relevant sections of the detailed itinerary (and let’s be clear, we do mean DETAILED) to give you an idea of what to do and see, where to stay, how to get places, and more. 

Where to Start and End Your Trip

The short answer is “it depends.” And it depends on two main factors. 

The first thing it depends on is your mode of transportation to get to Sicily. There are two main hubs in terms of flying to Sicily – Catania and Palermo.

Messina, the northeastern tip of the island, is where you’ll arrive if you’re driving or taking the train from the mainland (both involve a ferry).

The second thing it depends on is how much time you have.

Like we mentioned above (and you’ll hear us say it over and over again below, because we think it’s that important), you really can’t see the entire island in 7-10 days. Or even 14 days, really, but we think that’s the minimum amount of time you need to hit both eastern and western Sicily in your itinerary. 

If you have 7-10 days , you’ll want to focus on one side of the island or the other, which means you can fly in and out of the same airport (either Catania or Palermo). 

If you have 14 days , it works best if you fly into one (or ferry to Messina) and fly out of the other, which will save you three to four hours of driving, but will cost a little extra in terms of rental car, which will likely incur a one-way fee.

This is how we have the detailed itinerary below structured, just know that if you want to fly in and out of the same airport at the beginning and end of your trip, it’s going to add some driving and it’s going to be less convenient. 

We think the cost is worth the added convenience and time saved, but you might feel differently, so we want to give you the option!

Getting Around Sicily

There’s really only one thing you need to know about getting around Sicily: you need a car once you’re outside of the major cities, which are basically Palermo and Catania (and we’d add Syracuse just because it’s so compact and walkable). 

Do You Need to Rent a Car in Sicily?

In short, most likely. Renting a car is the only way you’re going to be able to get to some of the beaches and sites that are outside of city centers. Once you get outside the center of most cities in Sicily, public transportation is spotty at best, and nonexistent at worst. 

Can you cobble together an itinerary that uses only public transportation? Yes. Will you be missing out on some of the more far flung destinations in Sicily that ended up being among our favorite places? Also yes.

Renting a car will give you the most flexibility and autonomy to explore at your own pace. HOWEVER. We recommend avoiding having a rental car in big cities like Palermo, Catania, and even Syracuse, where you won’t need it if you follow the itinerary below, and it’s more of a hassle than a benefit. 

For that reason, we’d recommend picking up your car AFTER you visit Catania and Syracuse, and returning it BEFORE arriving in Palermo . It’ll also save you money on parking and gas, bonus!

One thing to know is that if you can’t drive a manual (stick shift) car, you’re going to pay a hefty premium for an automatic transmission. We know that, because we can’t drive a manual. Most cars in Sicily are manual transmission, and this is not the place to learn how to drive a stick. 

We rented through AutoEurope and had a lovely experience from picking up the keys in Siracusa to dropping them off at the airport in Palermo. We’d highly recommend getting some level of insurance, because stuff happens in Sicily. Particularly car stuff, with tiny narrow alleys and reckless driving all over the place. Click here to check prices and availability for a rental car through Auto Europe. 

Driving in Sicily

You’ve probably heard that driving in Sicily is a nightmare. And, in some ways, that’s true. It’s not for nervous drivers, or for people who aren’t comfortable driving in the best of scenarios.

Here are a few tips we’ve gleaned from our Sicily road trip to help you navigate the (sometimes wild) streets of Sicily. 

First, forget the rules you thought you knew – right of way and yielding, following speed limit signs, and the like – driving in Sicily is much more of an organic experience. People go with the flow, consider any signage as a mere suggestion rather than a rule, and it somehow all works out at the end of the day. 

Even our guide for our trip to Mount Etna, who grew up in Catania, said he hates driving in the city. As we sat at a stoplight in the heart of Catania, we watched not one but two separate cars pull up next to us, look around, and drive right through the red light.

See? Said our guide. A suggestion. 

Driving in Sicily was not as bad as I thought it was going to be, but it was vastly different from driving at home and in other countries we’ve driven in. Here are a few things to keep in mind. 

• ZTLs : Many cities have a zone in the center where you cannot drive without a local residential permit. These areas are marked with signs that say “Zona Traffico Limitato” with hours and dates posted. Sometimes, your accommodations will be in that zone, which means you should not drive to the hotel. Park outside the ZTL (more on parking in the next bullet) and walk in, or message your hotel in advance and ask them what the best way to reach them with a car would be.
• Parking : Always have an idea of where you want to park before you arrive somewhere. Search “parcheggio” on Google maps to find parking lots (usually paid, though some are free). Or wing it and try to find street parking. No marking or white curb? It’s free (though look out for limited times – e.g. 30 minute parking). Blue lines or curb? You pay at a pay station, which can usually be found nearby and often only take coins.
• Roundabouts : Listen, I’m 100% on board with roundabouts after a Freakonomics episode on how they save lives and money. But the way Italians handle them, I’m not sure they can possibly save lives. Yield to traffic in both directions, because there’s no guarantee they will return the courtesy. This is really only a problem in cities. 
• Speed Limits : Signage is actually pretty good – look for signs with a white circle with a red outline and a number in the middle. However, almost nobody follows them. There were countless times on one of the main highways where I’d be dutifully going the speed limit, and I’d be passed by literally every car that came by. And those no passing signs (or double white lines)? Don’t expect anyone to follow them. Two lane roads often become three and four lanes with people passing going in both directions. 

Public Transportation in Sicily

Public transportation is an okay option for visiting very specific parts of the island. It can be very useful for getting between cities on the east coast, for example. But where public transportation falls flat is getting outside major cities. 

As an example, we really enjoyed getting outside of Noto to the Vendicari Reserve and Marzamemi, and it was one of our favorite afternoons in Sicily. You would have a very, very hard time doing that without a car. In fact, it would be nearly impossible. 

If you’re okay with sticking to the main cities and tourist attractions – for example, on the east coast Taormina, Catania, and Siracusa – then public transportation will work. If you’re interested in doing some exploring and getting one foot off the beaten path, you’re going to need a car. 

Trains – through Trenitalia – are an option on the east coast (and eastern Sicily in general) in the corridor between Messina and Siracusa, but buses through Interbus are often a faster, cheaper, and overall better option for getting between places in Sicily due to the number of transfers you’ll need to make on trains.

Planning Your Sicily Itinerary: Route Options

It bears repeating in case you missed it above: Sicily is massive. It’s the largest island in the Mediterranean at just under 10,000 square miles, which means there’s just no possible way you’re going to see everything there is to see in 7, 10, or 14 days.

It’s about picking and choosing, and we’re here to help you make some decisions on what to pick and choose based on our own personal experience road tripping around Sicily. 

With only 7 or 10 days, we think you should choose between eastern and western Sicily and focus your time on just one, rather than trying to zip around and see the entire island in a short period.

By the way, we have an entire separate guide dedicated to helping you make the most of 7 days in Sicily , if you only have a week on the island.

With 14 days or more, we think you can see the entire island, but it will still feel a bit rushed . For context, we had three weeks, and there are still places we missed entirely and are already thinking about planning the return trip. 

The detailed itinerary below gives you a complete 14 day Sicily road trip itinerary, which includes stops along the east, south, and western parts of the island. If you have two weeks in Sicily, that would be a good place to start. 

But what if you have less time?

Here are some itinerary options for those of you who have 7 or 10 days. We’re giving you options for the eastern and western parts of Sicily too!

You can then take your shorter itinerary and use the information below in the detailed itinerary to plan out what to do and see and where to stay in each place. 

7 Days in Sicily

If you have a week, you should head straight to our guide to spending 7 days in Sicily , where we go into detail on how to spend 7 days on either the eastern half of the island OR the western half of the island. 

Again, we really, really discourage you from trying to see it all in just seven days.

You’ll end up rushing through everything and it won’t be nearly as satisfying as taking it a little slower and having the time to stop at that random cafe you stumble upon for an afternoon granita, or an aperol spritz on the coast. 

Eastern Sicily in 7 Days

If you want to focus on eastern Sicily, which includes gems like Mount Etna, Taormina, and Syracuse (among other things), here’s our best thinking on how to spend your time. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Catania & Explore
• Day 2: Pick up Car and Taormina
• Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Etna (Stay in Taormina)
• Day 4: Syracuse & Ortigia
• Day 5: Syracuse & Ortigia
• Day 6: Val di Noto (Beaches & Marzamemi)
• Day 7: Val di Noto & Fly Home from Catania

Western Sicily in 7 Days

In Western Sicily, here’s an idea of how to spend your time. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Palermo & Explore
• Day 2: Palermo
• Day 3: Day Trip to Cefalu (Sleep in Palermo)
• Day 4: Pick up Rental Car, Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro, San Vito Lo Capo
• Day 5: Segesta & Drive to Trapani
• Day 6: Day Trip to Erice from Trapani
• Day 7: Fly Home from Palermo

10 Days in Sicily

If you have 10 days, you’ll be able to add a few other destinations in either region, but we really think you should still focus on either western or eastern Sicily, not both. 

Eastern Sicily in 10 Days

With 10 days, add on Agrigento, home of the Valley of the Temples, and a stop in Modica or Ragusa along the way.

One other thing to note: you can fly out of either Palermo or Catania here since they’re roughly equidistant. It’s worth checking prices, but it’ll probably be cheaper to fly in and out of the same airport if we had to guess. 

• Day 2: Pick up Car Early & Drive to Taormina
• Day 6: Val di Noto
• Day 7: Val di Noto
• Day 8: Agrigento (Stop in Modica & Ragusa along the way)
• Day 9: Agrigento (Valley of the Temples)
• Day 10: Fly Home from either Palermo or Catania (Equidistant)

Western Sicily

With 10 days in Western Sicily, add on a few extra days out on the coast, using Trapani as your home base. 

• Day 3: Day Trip to Cefalu
• Day 4: Pick Up Car & Drive to Castellammare del Golfo
• Day 5: Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro (Stay in Castellammare del Golfo)
• Day 6: Segesta & San Vito Lo Capo
• Day 7: Trapani (Day trip to Erice)
• Day 8: Selinunte & Drive to Agrigento
• Day 9: Agrigento (Valley of the Temples) 
• Day 10: Fly Home from Palermo

Two Weeks in Sicily

Finally! 14 days in Sicily means you can squeeze in the main sights in both halves of Sicily (though you’ll still be making some decisions in terms of what to see and what to save for a future trip).

This version of the Sicily itinerary works best if you fly into either Catania or Palermo, and fly out of the other city.

In other words, it’s best done as a one way itinerary, which means you might be paying a premium for an open jaw flight (a flight that flies into one city and out of another) and a rental car, which often include a one-way fee. 

For what it’s worth, we did it as a one way trip, and feel the extra cost is worth the convenience.

However, if you don’t agree with that assessment, it’s easy enough to do it in and out of a single airport. You’ll just have to budget some extra time (three to four hours with traffic) of driving back from one end of the island to the other. 

You can do this road trip in either direction . We did it east to west, which is why it’s oriented that way here, but you can pretty easily flip it. 

Another note: You aren’t going to want to have a car in either Palermo, Catania, or Syracuse . Pick up the car when you’re ready to leave either city, and drop it off before you head into the city to explore. You won’t need a car once you’re in the city. 

Here’s the itinerary for two weeks in Sicily, which you’ll find in much greater detail below.

Day 2: Day Trip to Taormina (Stay in Catania)

Day 3: day trip to mount etna (stay in catania).

• Day 6: Pick up Rental Car & Drive to Noto
• Day 7: Val di Noto (Beaches & Marzamemi)
• Day 8: Drive to Agrigento (Stop in Modica along the way)
• Day 9: Agrigento (Valley of the Temples) Day 10: Selinunte, Segesta, and Drive to Castellammare del Golfo
• Day 11: Day Trip to Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro (Sleep in Castellammare del Golfo)
• Day 12: Drop off Rental Car at Palermo Airport & Palermo
• Day 13: Palermo
• Day 14: Fly Home from Palermo

There are two main things missing from this itinerary that would be the first additions we’d make with extra time. The first is a day trip to Cefalu from Palermo, which is a lovely beach town along the northern coast of Sicily. The second is a stop in Trapani to visit the hilltop town of Erice, which has some great views, but wasn’t exactly our favorite place in the world (which is why it got relegated to the “more time” section after we did it). 

In the “More Time?” section below the detailed itinerary, you’ll find our thoughts on what to do and see in both of those places. 

A Complete Guide to Planning a Two Week Sicily Road Trip

Now that we’ve got all the important information you need to know to plan your trip to Sicily, onto the complete guide to planning your Sicily itinerary! 

Please note that in this itinerary, you do not need a rental car for the first five days . Our recommendation – and this is exactly what we did – is to pick up your rental car in Syracuse, before driving to Noto . This way, you avoid driving and parking in two of the more stressful cities on this itinerary (Catania and Syracuse). 

Then, plan on dropping your rental car off in Palermo (at the airport) as you arrive – you do not need a rental car in Palermo either, and it’s equally chaotic and stressful to drive there (if not more so).

This also has the added benefit of saving you a little bit of money, since you are cutting four to five days of rental car costs (gas, parking, tolls, etc). 

There is one implication here, which we will touch on in the Mount Etna section below, and that implication is that you will not be able to reach the summit of Etna because of the way the timing, tours, and public transit connections work out.

If getting to the summit of Etna is a must-do for you, then you will need to rent a car so that you can arrive in Refugio de Sapienza before 9:00 am, which is when the summit tours depart. 

Note that I do mean the summit, which is only accessible by guided tour and in good conditions. You can still get up to the Torre del Filosofo and the Laghetto Crater via public transit or a guided tour from Catania.

That’s probably good enough for most people, including us, but it’s worth calling out as an implication of the way we’ve structured this Sicily road trip itinerary. 

With that out of the way, off you go to explore Sicily!

Day 1: Exploring Catania

On your first day, you’ll be arriving in Catania, the second biggest city in Sicily and, in many ways, the forgotten city in Sicily. 

I say the forgotten city because a lot of people – I’d venture to guess the majority – skip Catania altogether in favor of places like Taormina and Syracuse, which we think would be a mistake for two reasons.

First, there’s no better place for exploring Catania, Mount Etna, and Taormina than, well, Catania. It has the best connections for getting to all those places. Your other option is Taormina, which isn’t as well-connected AND is more expensive (though it is pretty damn charming). 

Second, Catania is worth a day in its own right! There are a couple of very cool things to do, see, and eat in Catania, and it’s a good introduction to Eastern Sicily and Etna’s history.

Catania has been around for millennia – there is evidence of humans going back to the Neolithic Era – and has been home to Greeks, Romans, and multiple other groups and combinations of people over that time. It’s literally a city built on top of a city built on top of another city, as you’ll learn over the course of your time there.

In the 17th Century CE, Catania was affected by two natural disasters in a span of 24 years. First, in 1669, was the eruption of Mount Etna, which didn’t have any major effects on the city in terms of destruction, but did permanently alter the north and western sides of the city, and pushed the coastline out two kilometers further into the sea (which is NUTS). Then came the big one. 

In 1693, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake leveled most of Catania, and the city had to be largely rebuilt, along with most of the rest of Eastern Sicily. And from those ashes, Sicilian Baroque architecture was born. 

Like we said, lots of history here, and well worth a day of your time to understand the context around the places you’re going to be seeing on the first half of this road trip, roughly. 

Things to Do in Catania

Here is a collection of things we enjoyed in Catania , in no particular order. Note that you won’t find any of the many day trips we did from Catania here, because you’re doing Taormina and Mount Etna over the course of the next two days. 

• Guided Tour of the Benedictine Monastery : Part history lesson, part beautiful building, this was our favorite experience in Catania. It was one of the biggest monasteries in Europe, and the hour-long guided tour takes you down underground to learn about the history of the building and the city as a whole, as it happens to be a great example of how the city adapted to the lava flows from the 1669 eruption. At the time of writing, you had to reserve your spot in advance, which you can learn more about here .
• Granita : Granita is a delicacy in Sicily, and you’ll find it at just about every cafe and pasticceria on the island. But what is it? It’s basically ice cream without the cream. It’s a combination of ice, sugar, and seasonal local ingredients like pistacchio, almond, fruits like lemons and strawberries, and even coffee. It’s delicious. Our favorite in Catania was at Caffetteria Villaroel ( here on Google Maps) – get the pistacchio if they have it!
• Teatro Romano di Catania : The first of many Roman theaters you will see on this itinerary, this is a great example of how the city is literally built on top of an old city. You’ll see the modern buildings of Catania as we know it today towering over an excavated Roman theater that was built in the 300s BCE. It’s worth an hour of your time, and there is some okay signage (with some iffy Google Translate English translations) to help you understand what you’re looking at. Book tickets in advance here (required when we were there), or buy when you get there. 
• Eating in Catania : The food in Sicily is outstanding, and Catania is a great introduction. The fertile volcanic soil of Etna is known for producing great produce, wine, and nuts. First of all, we’d be negligent if we didn’t mention the raucous and energetic fish market , which our apartment happened to be right on top of. It’s not just fish – there’s local vendors selling meat, cheese, fruits and vegetables, and nuts – all coming from nearby. It takes place every day except Sunday just south of Piazza del Duomo. You should make an effort to try pasta alla norma in Catania, which is a combination of pasta, tomatoes, eggplant, and salty ricotta salata (which is delicious, we might add).

For more of our favorite things to do in Catania, make sure to read our more detailed guide here . 

Where to Stay in Catania

You’ll be using Catania as a home base for the first three days of this itinerary, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing a place to stay. 

At a high level, the best place to stay in Catania is between Piazza del Duomo and Villa Bellini . 

I’d avoid going more than two or three blocks east or west of Via Etnea, if you can. We stayed right off of Piazza del Duomo – right over the fish market – and it was a phenomenal location in terms of centrality and walkability.

Well worth the slightly fishy aroma drifting up from the street below in the afternoons, when we were hanging out with the windows open. 

We stayed at Duomo Housing Catania – the deluxe apartment, specifically – which was gigantic compared to some other places we’ve stayed in Italy.

Seriously, it’s almost as big as our old apartment in San Francisco. We should note that if we were to do it again, we’d choose the apartment with a terrace which is smaller, but has a nice view of the Duomo.

If you’re on a budget, we had originally booked the Yard Hostel in Catania , but at the time we were traveling we weren’t quite sure about being in a place with so many shared facilities, so we ultimately cancelled.

We were really excited about it, even though it’s a few blocks north of Villa Bellini. They have dorms and private rooms, and it gets consistently stellar reviews. 

Here are some other options in the area that we’ve picked out for you.

• Le Suites Del Duomo House – another option for apartments on Piazza del Duomo. 
• Ferrini Home – Etnea Collection – excellent apartments at the northern end of Via Etnea.
• Habitat – a stunning and stylish boutique hotel a few blocks west of Via Etnea.

On your second day, take a day trip up the coast to Taormina, a lovely little seaside town up on a hill with great views and a spectacular ancient theater that’s well worth the trip. 

Remember, you’re staying back in Catania on this night (if you’re following our advice of picking up your car at the end of your time in Syracuse). 

Getting to Taormina

Without a car, you have two options for getting to Taormina from Catania. You can either take the train from Catania Centrale (Catania’s main train station), which is about 15-20 minutes from Piazza del Duomo on foot, or you can take a bus through Interbus. 

The train is faster at 35-60 minutes or so (depending on whether you choose the faster Intercity train or the slower and cheaper regional trains) but drops you off at the bottom of the hill under Taormina.

You can either walk up the hill (that’s what we did) in 20 minutes or so, or take the bus (Interbus, again) that goes up the hill from the train station and costs 1.90 Euros.

Book through Trenitalia from Catania Centrale to Taormina-Giardini (the train station at the bottom of the hill).

Here’s the route that you’ll follow to walk from the train station to the center of town. 

The bus – through Interbus – takes longer, but drops you off much, much closer to town, and is the way that our Mount Etna guide recommended. We took the train and walked from the train station up the hill, which wasn’t bad at all even though there was a torrential downpour when we were there.

The bus is a bit slower – taking about 75 minutes to complete the journey – but it’s direct and cheaper at 5.50 Euros each way.

You have to pick up the bus from close to Catania Centrale – here is the location on Google Maps .

Overall, both are good options, though the bus being more frequent, direct, and cheaper makes it a more attractive option for most people.  

Things to Do in Taormina

Here is a collection of things we enjoyed in Taormina, in no particular order. You can essentially spend as much or as little time in Taormina as you’d like, but be aware of train and bus schedules so that you know when you need to be heading back (and don’t get stuck waiting for an hour).

• The Greek Theater : The first stop you should make is the spectacular Teatro Antico di Taormina, which sits at the top of a hill with amazing sea views from the seating area. They hold concerts and shows here, and I’d definitely recommend seeing if there’s anything going on around the time when you’re in town and shaping which day you do Taormina around that. More information here .
• Granite at Bam Bar : After all that walking, you deserve a treat. And Bam Bar should be your treat of choice. Come for the granita, which is so good that we actually went twice in the span of a couple of hours, stay for the pastries and aperitivo as evening approaches. They’re known for granita, and the rotating flavors are posted on the board under the canopy. Get a seat outside for some good people watching.  
• Wander along Corso Umberto : Corso Umberto is the main, pedestrian-only street running through the heart of Taormina, and is full of shops, bars, and restaurants. It’s absolutely packed with tourists, but it’s worth a stroll. Stop to admire the views and the church at Piazza IX Aprile, you might even be lucky enough to catch a wedding, like we did!
• Hike up to Chiesa Madonna della Rocca : For an exquisite view over Taormina and the water beyond, make the steep climb up to this church on a hill (find it here on Google Maps). The views are stunning. You can continue up to Castello di Mola allll the way at the top of the hill for even better views, but it’s quite the climb. Consider taking a taxi up, then walking back down. There are some good restaurants up there for lunch, too. 
• Hit the Beach! Isola Bella is at the base of the hill tucked away in a protected cove. It’s a small island that, at low tide, is connected to the mainland via a narrow walking path. We were in Taormina during a period of intense thunderstorms, so we skipped the beach for obvious reasons, but it’s easy to get to from town. You can either take the cable car (info here ) or walk down. We’d suggest walking down, and taking the cable car back up. There’s another, more sandy but less unique beach just north of Isola Bella at Mazzaro. 

If you don’t have a car, you essentially have two options for visiting Mount Etna from Catania: go with a guided tour, or use the limited public transportation to get there and back and explore on your own. 

The third option, which does involve a visit to the summit if you want – is only relevant if you have a car, and involves driving up to Rifugio Sapienza – which is essentially the gateway to Etna – and either meeting up with a guided summit tour that departs at 9:00 am, or exploring on your own.

There’s no doubt that this is probably the easiest, most convenient option for most people who want to visit the summit. But it also involves extra days of a rental car, parking in Catania, and parking in Syracuse, all of which are a bit of a nightmare. 

Visiting Mount Etna on a Guided Tour from Catania

Ultimately, this is the option we chose to go with, and we’re generally pretty happy we did. These tours include transportation from the center of Catania, which is handy if you don’t have a car because, as we’ll cover in a second, public transportation is nearly nonexistent.

There are two types of tours to choose from – tours that visit the usual tourist areas, and tours that go a little off the beaten path. We chose the latter option, and were glad we did because we saw a total of eight other people over the course of the day (that is, until we got to Rifugio Sapienza and saw where all the people were). 

If you want to hike and explore the area around Mount Etna, we did this tour with Marco , a Catania native, and would recommend it. The other option we had was this tour , which is very similar (but wasn’t available on the day we wanted to go). 

If you’re not as excited about hiking , we’d suggest either this sunset jeep tour , or this day trip from Catania , which includes some hiking around the craters.  

Visiting Mount Etna On Your Own

Keep in mind that, as we discuss this option, we’re talking about doing it without a rental car. Visiting Etna with a rental car is relatively easy – just drive to Rifugio Sapienza, park the car, and take the cable car up to do some hiking. 

Without a rental car is a bit more complicated. 

There is, at the time of writing, exactly one bus from Catania to Rifugio Sapienza , and one bus from there back to Catania. The bus leaves from near Catania Centrale at 8:15 am, and arrives at Etna at around 10:30 am. The bus back to Catania leaves at exactly 4:30 pm (16:30) and arrives back in Catania at around 6:30 pm (18:30). 

As you can see, that timing is problematic if you want to meet one of those guided tours up to the summit, which leaves promptly at 9:00 am from the cable car station near the Rifugio. 

Our recommendation based on research and a conversation with our guide is to pay the extra money for the cable car that takes you up to the craters. It’ll cost you 30 Euros for a roundtrip (return) ticket, but it cuts out a stretch of hiking that doesn’t sound enjoyable, particularly in the heat of the summer months. You could hike, and usually we’re pretty up for hiking, but this hike is neither scenic nor pleasant.

Once you reach the top of the cable car, you have two options. The option we’d recommend is hiking, which is more scenic, and is free. You’ll climb another 500 or so meters up to the craters, and this hike is more scenic because you’ll find yourself in the heart of the volcanic landscapes that make Etna such an otherworldly experience. 

Here’s a fantastic guide to visiting Etna using public transportation that we’d recommend reading if you’re going to go this route. 

Day 4 & 5: Syracuse & Ortigia

When it comes to my limited knowledge of eastern Sicily prior to starting to do research for our trip, Syracuse was one of two places I was familiar with. And the reason is kind of funny, and is actually fairly relevant. 

Growing up, I used to play hours and hours of Rome: Total War , a video game where you set out as a faction in Europe (usually Roman) to build an empire (mostly through violence and betrayal).

Syracuse was always an important city in that particular game because it sat on an island – Sicily – that was a perfect base between Italy, Spain , North Africa, and Greece. 

That also happens to be true in the real world. The city was founded by Greeks, and it became a very powerful player in the Mediterranean power game before becoming a part of the Roman Empire, and it was briefly the capital of the Byzantine Empire in the late 7th Century.

Then, it changed hands between the Aghlabids – a kingdom of Muslims from North Africa – who held it for two centuries before it was reconquered by the Byzantines. 

All of those influences are apparent as you explore the twin cities of Syracuse and Ortigia, from the prevalence of couscous in the cuisine (hailing from North Africa) to the ruins at the archaeological park that are great examples of Greek and Roman architecture. 

Like most of eastern Sicily, the architecture of the city was changed forever with the earthquake of 1693, so you won’t see as many examples of those influences on the buildings of Syracuse since the city was essentially rebuilt in the 18th and 19th Centuries. 

The entire city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has helped to preserve the city’s architecture from overdevelopment due to tourism. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sicily, so you’re likely to hear all sorts of different languages as you’re walking around. Especially if there’s a massive cruise ship in the port. 

A Quick Geography Lesson

This is important, which is why we’ve decided to add a quick blurb here to make sure you know what we’re talking about below. 

“Syracuse” refers to the city on the mainland, which is connected to a little island called “Ortigia” which is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets and magnificent sea views. 

You’ll want to stay in Ortigia, which is the more charming, romantic part of the city, but the most important sight in Syracuse – the Parco Archeologico Neapolis – is on the mainland, about 30 minutes away from Ortigia on foot. 

You’ll spend most of your time in Ortigia, with a journey out to the park to see the incredible Greek and Roman ruins found there. 

Getting to Siracusa

Syracuse is another place that we’d recommend avoiding driving, and frankly, you won’t need a car anyway since it’s relatively compact – you’d essentially just park the car and leave it until you’re ready to head to your next destination. 

Plan on taking the train from Catania Centrale to Siracusa (book through Trenitalia ), or the bus through Interbus (you can pick up the bus from Piazza Borsellino , which is a short walk from Piazza del Duomo). 

You should know that the train station in Syracuse is a good 20-25 minute walk from Ortigia, so you’ll either want to plan on walking or grab a taxi from the train station. 

Things to Do in Syracuse & Ortigia

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Syracuse and Ortigia. We’re going to start with a section on the Parco Archeologico Neapolis – the most important and popular sight – and then give you some other things to do and see while you’re here. 

Visiting the Parco Archeologico Neapolis

By far the most popular tourist attraction in the city is the Archaeological Park , where you’ll find both a Greek AND Roman theater, along with beautiful gardens full of citrus trees, limestone quarries, and more. 

It’s well worth a couple of hours of your time, which is about the amount of time it will take you to walk through the three main areas of the park – the Greek Theater, the Roman Theater, and the limestone quarries and gardens around the Latomia del Paradiso. 

You can buy a combo ticket that includes the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi (about 15 minutes away on foot), which is worth a visit if you’re REALLY into archaeology, but we found it very overwhelming. It has literally hundreds of pieces of pottery from various eras, among other artifacts, though the pygmy elephant skeletons were adorable. 

After the park, we didn’t really have the brainpower or attention span for it, but it might have gone better if we had split the two activities up on different days. 

We’d highly, highly, highly recommend getting to the park at 8:30 am when it opens for two reasons. One, because it gets crazy busy starting around 10:00 am, which will give you a couple of hours head start to see some of the park in relative peace and quiet. Two, because in the summer it gets miserably hot and there’s not a whole lot of shade. 

It costs 10 Euros per person for the park only, and 13.50 Euros for a combo ticket that includes the Museo Paolo Orsi.

More Things to Do in Siracusa and Ortigia

Here are some other things to do in Syracuse and Ortigia. 

• Walk the Perimeter at Sunset : One of our favorite things to do in Ortigia was to just walk. And we ended up walking the entire perimeter of the island three times. It’s gorgeous, particularly in that sweet, soft light that happens within an hour of sunrise or sunset. It’d be a good pre-Aperitivo activity, and if you do it from the northeastern tip to the western end, you’ll be in a good position to grab a spritz at the end of the walk. Make a stop at the Castello Maniace along the way. Something like this would be a good route. 
• The Underground Tour : There’s a fascinating and relatively quick tour of the Chiesa di San Filippo Apostolo in the old Jewish Quarter that takes you into the crypts below the church (which is built on top of a synagogue), and then into the underground tunnels that were used to shelter civilians during the Allied bombings in World War 2. Pretty fascinating stuff, and an interesting way to experience the history of Syracuse from a different point of view. Tours in English and Italian are roughly every half hour in the afternoon, and are donation based (we donated five Euros for the two of us). 
• Gelateria Gusto : Incredibile pistacchio granita, though they’re also known for great gelato. 
• Sabadì Cioccolato : If you’re not making it to Modica (if you follow this itinerary, you will), then you should stop by here to try some Modica chocolate , which we found to be amazing and slightly different from the chocolate we’re used to. It’s cooked slowly at a lower temperature, which means the sugar doesn’t dissolve, and they don’t add cocoa butter in. Combined, the result is a slightly grainy texture, which reminds me a lot of chocolate in Mexico that is stoneground. You can get it plain, or with all sorts of fun flavor combinations, and this place – which is right near Piazza del Duomo – is a good place to get an introduction to it with tons of flavors you can sample and buy. 
• Aperitivo and the Sunset : Grab a drink around sunset (really, get there 30-45 minutes early to grab a seat) at one of the many bars along the southwestern tip of the island. Our picks would be Mikatu for their wines, but we got thwarted by thunderstorms BOTH nights we were there. Other good options without the view are Enoteca Solaria (for amazing wine) and Verga (for the picturesque courtyard and cocktails).

Where to Stay in Syracuse & Ortigia

It’s worth repeating: stay in Ortigia! Even if you’re on a tight budget, we think you’ll regret staying in the far less charming mainland area, even if you’ll save a few pennies. 

We stayed at Stay in Ortigia Guest House , a group of stylish apartments right in the heart of Ortigia near the Temple of Apollo on a quiet side street. The apartments are compact, but have full kitchens, modern decor, and access to laundry (which we desperately needed at this point in our Italy trip). We’d recommend it, especially if you’re looking for an apartment with a kitchen. 

Here are some other options that were on our shortlist for Ortigia. 

• Alla Giudecca : We walked by this place multiple times as we did a circle around the perimeter of Ortigia at sunrise and sunset, and noticed the rooms with balconies facing the ocean and said “yeah, that looks pretty nice.” 
• Dimore delle Zagare Ortigia : This is a historic B&B in the ever-charming Jewish Quarter of Ortigia, which was our favorite part of the island to get lost in. The location is great in terms of being central to just about everything you’ll want to see in Ortigia, and you can choose between hotel-style rooms and suites with a little more space (and, in some cases, a balcony!). 

Day 6 & 7: Val di Noto

Drive Time & Distance : 40 Minutes / 38 km (remember, pick up your rental car in Syracuse on the morning of day 6, before your drive to Noto! You’ll need it from here to Palermo, where you can drop it off on your way into the city and explore car-free from there). 

The Val di Noto is one of the crown jewels of southeastern Sicily, with the towns within the region being declared a UNESCO world heritage site in the early 2000s.

The city of Noto itself was completely destroyed during the 1693 earthquake, and was rebuilt in a completely different spot – you can actually still visit what’s left of the old town at Noto Antica , but we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it if you’re short on time. 

Noto is the epitome of Sicilian Baroque architecture, which makes sense when you realize that the architects in charge of rebuilding the city after the earthquake in the 17th and 18th Centuries essentially had a completely blank canvas to work with. 

We think there are three amazing things to see in the Val di Noto, and it’s well worth about 36 hours of your time (and certainly more, if you have it). They are: 

• A morning hike to the beaches in Riserva di Vendicari
• An afternoon in Marzamemi , a small fishing village on the coast
• An afternoon and evening in the city of Noto , which is known for its beautiful baroque architecture made of limestone, which lights up in the afternoon sun. 

What to Do in the Val di Noto

As you can see, there are two afternoon/evening activities there, which means you’ll need two nights in the Val di Noto.

Here’s how we would spend them. 

Exploring the Town of Noto

Spend your first afternoon and evening exploring the city of Noto, which is set on a hillside overlooking the valley to the south. Don’t miss: 

• Caffè Sicilia : This place is famous for their almond granita, and I wasn’t sure whether or not it would live up to the hype. Spoiler: it does. They have a version of it called a “cappuccino” where it’s a small scoop of coffee granita on top of a heap of almond granita. The almond granita is great, and their pastries look pretty incredible too.
• Putia del Coppo : A cone full of freshly caught fried fish. All gluten free! They go on holiday from… *checks notes*… October to April, so it’s really a summer thing. They also have a location in Modica. 
• Cattedrale di Noto : We’re not usually huge “go into all the churches” people, but this one is pretty cool. Inside, the stained glass windows underneath the dome caught our eye, as did the super realistic paintings depicting the passion of the Christ (aka the crucifixion), which I thought was an interesting take because you can really feel the suffering of Jesus through the art. Make sure your shoulders are covered and take off your hat as you enter. 
• Walk Something Like This Loop , which takes you up some stairs to some nice views. Obviously, you’re exploring, so feel free to wander a bit. 

Parking in Noto : We found plenty of free street parking in Noto near this gas station , which is a 10-15 minute walk up into the center of town. We had also scoped out this parking lot , which isn’t free, but is affordable and super close to the center.   

The Vendicari Reserve

The next morning, head out to the beaches in the Vendicari Reserve , which was highly recommended to us from the hosts at our little B&B in the countryside.

It’s a little more complicated than “head to the beach!” because there are multiple ways to get there, entrances, etc.

Basically, there are three main beaches in the reserve: Spiaggia di Vendicari, Spiaggia di Calamosche (the prettiest and busiest), and Spiaggia di Marianelli (the naked-est). 

So, after driving down a narrow dirt road and finding nobody there to take our money to park (it was the offseason, so I bet it’s different than the summer), we have a recommendation: head straight to the main entrance ( here – ignore the single bad review, at the time of writing, it’s 3 Euros to park for the day, which is reasonable for this area) and walk to the beaches from there. 

It’s a scenic walk along the coast, and it is well worth the effort to get there. It will save you the headache of trying to navigate the bad roads in a rental car, and the walk itself is gorgeous.

It costs 3.50 Euros per person to enter the reserve (plus the parking fee), and you’ll want to bring plenty of water because it is completely exposed and it can get very hot in the summer heat.

An Afternoon / Evening in Marzamemi 

After an afternoon of hiking and exploring the beauty of the rocky coastline, sandy beaches, and stunning crystal clear water of southern Sicily, head to the small town of Marzamemi for an evening of relaxation. Our host at our little farm stay recommended this, otherwise we probably never would have done it on our own. 

The town doesn’t really come alive until at least 7:00 pm, so it might be worth heading back and cleaning up a bit before returning. It’s a tiny town, so there’s not really that much to see, but we’d recommend finding a spot for aperitivo and dinner around Palazzo di Villadorata , which was the liveliest part of town when we were there. 

Parking in Marzamemi : We were there in the offseason and found plenty of street parking for free, but if you can’t find free parking, this lot is highly reviewed and is a couple of blocks away from the heart of the action. 

Where to Stay in the Val di Noto

We’re going to recommend that you actually stay outside of the city of Noto itself, because the Val di Noto is absolutely breathtaking, with tons of agriculture, wine production, and beautiful beaches awaiting you outside of the city limits. 

There are lots of agriturismos, where you can stay under the olive, pomegranate, and almond trees, slow down, and really appreciate the beauty and productivity of this part of southeast Sicily. 

We stayed at Fiori di Noto , a small, family-run agriturismo just outside of the city of Noto, and highly, highly recommend it. We spent half a day just lounging in the sun under the olive tree outside our bungalow in the company of the cutest bunch of kittens, and it could not have been more pleasant.

It’s also about 10 minutes from Noto, and under half an hour to Vendicari, so it’s not like you’re really trading off on the location. Plus, free parking!

Three other options (that look fantastic) just outside of Noto: 

• Baglio Genovesi
• IUTA Glamping & Farm
• Valle Degli Dei AgriResort

If you want to stay in Noto , stay at either the Ostello della Gioventù – Il Castello , a hostel with private rooms right in the heart of town that we walked by on our afternoon stroll, or B&B Novecento Siciliano , a charming bed and breakfast just off of Noto’s main drag. 

Day 8: Modica & Drive to Agrigento

Drive Time & Distance (Including Modica) : 3 hours / 186 km 

This day is the big driving day on this itinerary, and over the course of the day (and the next drive to Trapani) you’re going to pass through huge swaths of the island that are extremely picturesque, with vineyards and almond trees covering rolling hills as far as the eye can see.

However, there just isn’t enough time to stop and see everything, so we’ve chosen Modica as a perfect stop to break up the drive. We spent a lovely four hours in Modica, and there’s a nice city walk that we’d recommend (more info below) where you’ll get some pretty incredible views.

The views come with a price, though. And that price is a long, sometimes steep climb straight uphill. 

Like most cities in eastern Sicily, Modica was devastated by the 1693 earthquake (though less so than other cities like Noto), and was rebuilt in the Sicilian Baroque style you’re now probably intimately familiar with. 

Modica is really a combination of two cities – Modica Bassa (roughly, “lower Modica”) and Modica Alta (roughly “upper Modica”). Modica Alta is at the top of the hill, and the views from atop the crest of the hill are pretty great.

The only problem is that it’s a nightmare to drive up to them, and the best way to reach the top of the hill is actually to park at the bottom and walk. Which is exactly what we’d recommend doing. 

Below, you’ll find a city walk that mirrors what we did, including some of our favorite stops along the way. After you’re done in Modica – plan on anywhere between two and four hours, depending on how much walking you’re up for – head onwards to Agrigento for the night. 

Parking in Modica : There’s a small, free parking lot here that we parked at  – in high season, you’ll need to arrive EARLY (like, 8:30 am early) to have a chance at a spot. Otherwise, there’s lots of paid street parking near that parking lot at a relatively affordable rate. Pay at the machine and put the ticket on your windshield. 

What to Do in Modica: A Nice City Walk

First of all, here is a map of this city walk, including all the stops we’ve outlined below. You’re going to climb 166 meters over the course of the walk, mostly along narrow alleys and steps. Take your time, and make sure you have plenty of water. 

Here are the stops, in order. You’ll start from the parking lot we mentioned above (or wherever you found parking nearby), and make your way up the hill to Pizzo Belvedere before heading back down and enjoying some cheese, gelato, and chocolate that will have been well-earned. 

• Duomo di San Giorgio : This church – designed in the Baroque style, of course – was restored in the 18th Century after a series of earthquakes, and is now the main church in Modica, with its distinctive dome visible from all over the city. Similar to Noto, I enjoyed the paintings depicting the crucifixion of Christ, which are surprisingly realistic (apparently that was a characteristic of the times). 
• Cioccolato di Modica Sabadì : Chocolate made in the traditional Modica way: cooked at a low heat so the sugar doesn’t dissolve, which gives it a slightly gritty texture. This shop has a table with a bunch of different chocolates on it – some flavored, some just chocolate, some with flavor combinations inspired by different cities in Sicily. We really enjoyed learning about the process of making the chocolate, and about the different product lines they have. Plus, free samples!
• Pizzo Belvedere : You made it! This is the top of the hill. Admire the views over Modica Bassa from here, and the huge bridge in the distance. We think the view from here is well worth the effort it takes to get there. 
• Church of Saint John Evangelist : We stumbled upon this gem on our way down the hill. It’s beautiful, and marks the highest point in Modica Alta (so, technically, we lied when we said you were at the top before – forgive us). Inside, it’s not the most ornate, but we like the view from down the steps in front of the church. At the bottom of the steps, there was a small group of old men having coffee and chatting, gesticulating in a way that only Italians do, as they discussed either football or politics – hard to tell which. Getting together there was clearly a routine, which I admire. 
• Castello dei Conti : Not the greatest castle in the world, but we enjoyed walking out to the point where there’s a clock tower that you can hear ticking (loudly). Views from Pizzo Belvedere are better. 
• Bar del Duomo : In an alley right under the Duomo di San Giorgio, this is a lovely place to stop and have an espresso, granita, or pastry before you continue on down the hill. 
• Antica Dolceria Bonajuto : Said to be the oldest chocolate shop in the city, this will be a fun stop if you, like us, have a love affair with chocolate. They also have tours, though you’ll need to book in advance and they cancel it if they don’t have at least six participants. The friendly woman behind the counter spoke great English too, which was helpful as we tried to figure out what the things in the display case were. 
• Caffè Adamo : Famous for their gelato, Alysha knew she had to try this place as soon as she discovered it. She is, after all, a gelato fiend. I passed because I wasn’t sure how “gluten free” their gelato was. She tried a ricotta + marjoram gelato, which was super creamy and some of the best she’s had in Sicily (though, we’ve been far more focused on granita while we’ve been here).
• Casa del Formaggio Modica : Is the man behind the counter the nicest cheesemonger in the world? We think so. We walked by and decided to stop in, and walked out with two cheeses and a bottle of local wine. The man behind the counter gave us recommendations for a hard and stinkier (the technical term, of course) cheese, and helped us choose a bottle of wine. He made sure we tried the cheeses before we bought them so we were sure we’d like them, and they were fantastic. 

Day 9: Agrigento & Valle dei Templi

You’ll have arrived in Agrigento the previous afternoon after a morning in Modica, and we’d recommend spending your first evening in the center of Agrigento, which comes alive when the sun sets. 

We grabbed a drink at Caffè San Pietro right in the heart of Agrigento, and it was a lovely place to people watch with spritzes in hand, and a generous bounty of aperitivo snacks. There are plenty of places to choose from for dinner in the area, though we heard really good things about Enoteca ‘Nzolia .

Then, the next day, the main event: visiting the Valley of the Temples (more details on that in a second). 

Where to Stay in Agrigento

This is another place where we’d actually recommend staying on the outskirts of town, where you’ll find some very nice B&Bs with lush gardens and spectacular views. 

We stayed at Villa La Lumia B&B , which is just outside of town, about a 20 minute walk into the center, and we LOVED it. The hosts were so friendly, their dog Argo is absolutely adorable (we almost stole him, shhhh don’t tell anyone), and the breakfast on the terrace with temple views is quite the way to start your day.

It’s a lovely place to hang out, and we can’t recommend it enough. They have hotel-style rooms, and apartments that have a kitchen. Free parking, too. 

Other good options just outside of town are Villa Lekythos or South Valley Guesthouse .

If you want to stay in the center of Agrigento, stay at either B&B Triskéles , which looks fantastic, or at Le Terrazze di Pirandello , a good budget option with room options that have a shared bathroom for a bit cheaper. 

Visiting the Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples)

Over the course of the next 36 hours or so, you’re going to see three examples of ruins of ancient temples and cities built around them. This one, which is about a 20 minute walk outside of Agrigento, was hands down our favorite, and maybe even our favorite thing we did in Sicily. 

We were standing at the entrance to the Temple of Zeus reading the informative signage (in English!), which outlined for us where the walls of the temple would have stood.

Both of us turned to each other and audibly said “whoa” because that temple must have been absolutely MASSIVE.

Of course, you’ll have to use your imagination a bit to picture it, but the scale and grandeur of some of the structures in this area is pretty mind boggling. 

How to Get There

The archaeological area spans a pretty big distance, and there’s an entrance on either end of the park with plenty of parking (though you’ll have to pay for it). If you’ve got a car, you can drive to the Valley of the Temples, and you’ll have to pay for parking. 

However, this means that you’re going to have to walk through the valley once to see it all, then back through it again to return to your car. We recommend either walking , which takes about 30 minutes in either direction, or taking the bus , which leaves from here . 

That way, you can make a big loop without having to retrace your steps. There are two routes you need to make this loop. You take the 2 bus to get to the eastern entrance, then pick up the 1 bus from the western entrance to get back to Agrigento – buy tickets on the bus. 

More information on their website in the “visit” section here .

Ticket Costs

A standard ticket costs 12 Euros per person. A combo ticket with the Kolymbethra Garden, a former lake turned lush valley filled with citrus trees, costs 17 Euros (the garden closes earlier than the Valley of the Temples, so you’ll want to do it first). 

A combo ticket with the nearby Archaeology Museum costs 15.50 Euros (you can visit them over the course of three days, one admission to each). 

More information here .

When to Visit

We have a strong opinion on this one, and it’s shared by the host at our B&B that we stayed at in Agrigento (which we highly recommend – it’s Villa La Lumia B&B ). 

You should go in the late afternoon, about an hour and a half before sunset, when the light of the setting sun lights up the temples in a deep golden glow. 

Plus, the park is open past sundown, and if you’re willing to wait a bit, you can have a completely different experience with the temples in the dark, when they’re lit up with fancy uplighting. 

If your itinerary makes it so that you can’t swing an afternoon/evening visit, it’s still worth doing at other times of day, but it’s that much more spectacular as the sun is setting over the sea beyond the temples. 

Day 10: Selinunte, Segesta, and Drive to Castellammare del Golfo

Drive Time & Distance : 2 hours 40 minutes / 180 km 

This is another day with a long drive, but we’ve got a couple of nice stops along the way to break it up. Eventually, you’ll arrive in Castellammare del Golfo, a charming little seaside town that is a great home base for exploring one of the best nature reserves on the island. 

Like we mentioned before, there are a bunch of really fascinating historical sites in this part of Sicily. You’ll see two of them today (combined with the Valley of the Temples last night, this is quite the 24 hours of history). 

One of them – Selinunte – is about the historical context and using your imagination to envision what life in Sicily was like in the Greek and Roman times. The other – Segesta – is about the sheer beauty (there’s not a whole lot of historical context given). 

The order goes: Selinunte, Segesta, then driving to Castellammare del Golfo. 

Let me tell you, after you’ve seen all three of these archaeological sites, you’re going to walk away with a new appreciation for the ancient people’s ability to choose a site for their cities and temple complexes.

Selinunte sits on a bluff overlooking the sea, and the views are pretty fantastic, particularly from the portion of the park where you’ll find the acropolis. 

We had heard of both the Valley of the Temples and Segesta before arriving in Sicily, but this one was something we discovered along the way, and decided to make a very slight detour to include it on our route. 

Selinunte is a pretty big archaeological park set on the site of a Greek city dating back to the 600s BCE. It was one of the most important pieces of land for the Greeks in Sicily at that time, and they butted heads with both the Carthaginians and the Elymians, who came from the Segesta to the north and are one of three native peoples of Sicily. 

It was a thriving city in what we now know as southwestern Sicily, that is until Carthage sacked it, razed it, executed many of its inhabitants, and then re-occupied it in 409 BCE. It was then taken by the Romans in the Punic wars, but by then it was largely uninhabited. 

Today, the collection of ancient houses around the acropolis and the two temple complexes were among the most interesting history lessons we got during our time in Sicily.

It’s a good reminder that this part of the world has a variety of influences, and has been occupied by several different groups of people throughout its history, all of whom have left their stamp on it in one way or another (though, it should be noted that some of those stamps – particularly the architecture kind – were wiped from the face of the earth with the earthquake in 1693). 

There are two parts of the park, and you can either walk between them (think 15-20 minutes, there and back) or pay a small fee to ride the golf cart between them.

The first, right near the entrance, is a series of temples (though, unlike the Valley of the Temples, historians and archaeologists aren’t quite sure who the temples are dedicated to). 

The second part of the park is over on a little bluff, and is where you’ll find the acropolis, more temples, and the remains of houses from thousands of years ago, which is kind of cool and helps you visualize what life might have been like at that time. 

How to Get There : Drive – it’s about a 15 minute detour off the route you’d be taking anyway. Park for free in the big lot outside the entrance. 

Ticket Costs : 6 Euros per person. 

More information here . 

To be honest, this was our least favorite of the three temple complexes in the past day or so of this itinerary. It’s beautiful, yes, but the signage leaves a bit to be desired. Mostly because the answers to questions like “who built this?” and “why does this temple exist?” are basically the shrug emoji. 

There’s a lot of hypotheses, but we don’t really know the details, because we only have primary sources from other people’s points of view – namely Greeks – and other than that… *shrugs*.

The two main highlights here are the Theater, high up on the hillside, and the unfinished Doric Temple, which is an easy 250 meter walk from the entrance. 

It’s worth noting that the theater is quite a ways up on the hilltop, which means amazing views, yes, but it also means a climb to get there.

We’d recommend paying the extra few Euros to take the bus up , because the climb is brutal, especially in the hot summer sun. We walked, and we’re generally into hiking, but at the top we decided it wasn’t really worth it. 

There are some nice views of the Doric Temple from the climb up, which is why we’d also recommend that you walk back down rather than taking the shuttle . 

There really isn’t a whole lot to see here, so it should only take you 30-60 minutes or so. 

Where to Stay in Castellammare del Golfo

Unlike some of the other places on this itinerary, you definitely want to stay in the center of Castellammare del Golfo, rather than outside of town. The narrow streets near the port and along the water are very charming, and the areas further inland aren’t. 

We stayed at Veranda sul Porticciolo , a small apartment complex run by friendly Guiliano, who showed us our room and gave us some tips about visiting the Zingaro Reserve, along with where to eat in town. We stayed in a studio, which was compact, but had a full kitchen, access to a washing machine, and a comfortable bed.

The best part was morning coffee and afternoon glasses of wine out on the deck, which has views of the port. Parking would be a bit of a hassle in the summer, when the area is a ZTL and you can’t park here, but that’s true of basically any place to stay in the center of town. 

Other options nearby would be Hotel Punta Nord Est (for hotel-style rooms with nice sea views), Blue Suite (for spacious apartments with full kitchens and nice views), or B&B Da Peppa (a charming B&B with a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy your breakfast in the morning). 

Day 11: Day Trip to Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro

Drive Time & Distance : 20 Minutes / 12 km (one way) 

On this day, we’d highly, highly recommend taking a day trip to the Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro , which was a highlight on our Sicily trip. You’ll do the reserve – ideally in the early morning to avoid the blistering summer heat – and then spend the rest of the afternoon and evening in Castellammare del Golfo, which was our favorite town in this part of Sicily. 

The pristine coastal reserve was established in the 1980’s after it had originally been slated for development – you walk through the tunnel where the road was supposed to go as you enter the reserve from the southern entrance.

But numerous environmental organizations stepped in to prevent the construction of the road and keep this part of Sicily’s gorgeous coastline wild. 

Spoiler alert: they succeeded, and Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro became Sicily’s first nature reserve, protecting 4,000 acres of natural beauty on the northern coast. 

Getting to the Park

Drive. There’s no other way to do it (that we could find, anyway – let us know if you find a bus with a reliable schedule!) which means if you don’t have a car, you’ll have to skip it. There are two entrances – one near Scopello on the south end, and one near San Vito Lo Capo on the north end. 

The southern entrance is about 20-25 minutes away from Castellammare del Golfo, and is the one you should shoot for. Here it is on Google Maps. 

The road to get there, uh, isn’t great. But it’s doable, even in a rental car. There’s a medium sized parking area that we imagined becomes a zoo in high season. 

Costs and Hours

Entry to the park is 5 Euros per person, and they take both cash and credit card. In the summertime, the park is open from 7:30 am to 7:00 pm. In October, when we were there (and through the rest of the offseason until April), the park is only open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. 

What to Do in Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro

Now, our experience in the park is likely a bit different than yours is going to be, at least if you’re coming during the warm summer months. 

We were there in mid-October, and ended up out on the coast in the middle of a thunderstorm, with raindrops that felt like they were the size of my head. Not ideal, but still gorgeous in less of a “crystal clear turquoise water” kind of way, and more of a “those waves crashing on the cliff are a little scary” kind of way.

Start from the southern entrance and head north into the reserve. There are multiple trails to follow, but if you’re looking for those stunning coastal views and beaches, you want the coastal route, which is also the easiest. You’ll receive a map as you enter, which has all the “calas” you’ll find along the trail. 

If you’re expecting wide sandy beaches where you can lay out in the sun, think again. It’s more rocky and wild than we were expecting, though that has never stopped Italians from getting their sunbathing in as far as we’ve ever seen. 

If you’ve ever been to the west coast of the United States, which is where we’re from, the beaches here are more similar to the ones in Washington State – wild and rocky – than Southern California – developed and sandy. 

The hike from the southern entrance through to the northern entrance is roughly 7km, so a 14km hike round trip. It should take you between four and six hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way. Here is a map of the reserve . 

If you’re like most people, you’re probably visiting between June and September, when the weather will be significantly different. One thing we noticed on this route – mostly because we got soaked – is that there’s very little cover from the sun (or rain in our case).

Things to Know Before You Go

Here are a few things to know before you go to help you prepare for your trip. 

• You need to bring plenty of water (at least one liter per person, if not more), sunscreen, and a hat. It’s going to be hot, and there’s not a whole lot of shade. 
• There is no drinking water inside the park , and the only place to buy food or water is the little snack shack in the parking lot. Make sure you have enough snacks and water before setting out on the hike. 
• Start early . Both because the parking lot is small, and to avoid hiking during the heat of the day.
• Wear closed toed shoes ! The hike isn’t necessarily hard, though there is a little up and down as you make your way along the coast, but there are parts that are rocky. Leave the sandals at home. They will check whether you’re wearing proper footwear at the entrance, though it’s unclear whether they’d actually turn you away, or just laugh at you. 
• The closer you go to the middle of the reserve, the fewer people you’ll find . Solely because it’s a longer walk from either entrance, and, well, people don’t like walking that much. 

Days 12 – 14: Exploring Palermo

Let me give you a little BTS (behind the scenes) look at how we operate when we’re on the road. Generally, things are most fresh in the few days after we do something, so we do our best to actually write these guides in that timeframe (or, at the very least, take some detailed notes). 

We are writing this guide as we make our way through Sicily, which means things change as we discover new places and gain a new point of view on certain things.

Originally, we had planned this itinerary out to include less time in Palermo, and more time on the coast in Western Sicily – specifically Trapani. Then we spent time in Palermo, and decided “you know what? More time in Palermo is always a good thing!”

That’s how we landed at having two to three days in Palermo, which is barely enough time to see everything there is to see, eat everything there is to eat, and do everything there is to do. 

What to Do in Palermo

With a couple of days in Palermo, we’d strongly recommend prioritizing activities inside the city limits, rather than venturing outside the city to visit places like Monreale or Cefalu. 

Here are our favorite things to do (and eat) in Palermo. 

• Explore Palermo’s Famous Open Air Markets : There are three main markets in Palermo, and all three are worth a visit for different reasons. Go in the morning, which is when they are most lively (with the notable exception of Mercato Vucciria, which is decidedly a nighttime endeavor). Capo is a sensory overload, with vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, ready-to-eat fried delicacies, and plenty more. Mercato Ballaró, south of the historic center, feels REAL, with a touch of grittiness that tells me that real people shop there for their daily needs. Mercato Vucciria is a collection of narrow streets that we stumbled upon after dark (mostly by accident), when the area transforms into a collection of small food stalls and cozy bars with plenty of open air seating. 
• Eat Street Food in Palermo : Palermo is world-renowned for its amazing street food. You can pretty easily eat a hearty, authentic meal for about five Euros. Some of our favorite Palermitan street foods were Crocchè, which are herbaceous deep fried mashed potatoes, and arancine (interestingly, the singular in Palermo is “arancina”, versus “arancino” over in Catania), which are basically fried rice balls stuffed with all sorts of fillings, from veggies to meats and cheeses. Or sfincione. Or panelle. The list goes on and on. The point is, Palermo has amazing street food. The best way to experience it, we think, is with a local guide. This is the tour we had planned to book – despite the fact that I have Celiac Disease and couldn’t eat a single thing, I was excited to learn all about Palermitan culture – but the timing ended up not working out and we didn’t get a chance to do it. Book the morning tour, and show up hungry!
• Learn About Palermo’s History with the Mafia : Having never seen the Godfather or the Sopranos, two of pop culture’s most famous depictions of the mafia, I actually wasn’t really that familiar with the Sicilian stereotypes around the mafia. But, as Alysha, whose grandfather was born in a small town called Melilli in southeast Sicily, informed me, people’s first thought when you say “Sicily” is generally “mafia.” Like Pablo Escobar in Medellin, Colombia, there is a lot of interest in learning about the mafia, which has created a mini boom in tours focusing on sights and famous places associated with them. It’s important to remember that there is a real trail of blood behind the mafia in Sicily. Real people died and suffered as a direct result of the mafia’s actions. Which is why, if you’re interested in learning about the mafia, you should do it responsibly through tours with Addiopizzo , which is an organization that set out to rid Sicily of the “pizzo”, or the protection money that businesses paid to the mafia for decades. This is the tour we did, and it was great – we highly recommend it. 
• Drink Sicilian Wine : It felt like everywhere we drove in Sicily, we saw vineyards. Which can only mean one thing. Affordable, delicious wine! Our two favorite discoveries in terms of Palermo’s wine scene were CiCala , which is the place to go for natural wines from Sicily, and Bottega Monteleone , a great place for a wine-focused aperitivo (Alysha really enjoyed the crostini with a paste made from sardines and herbs). 

Where to Stay in Palermo

We went back and forth a few times when deciding where to stay in Palermo, which means we have three recommendations for you that we had booked at one point or another. 

In general, we’d recommend staying either in the area between Teatro Massimo and the Palermo Cathedral , or in Politeama – Libertà , which is a little more upscale and polished. 

We stayed at Le Casette di Marcì , a set of serviced apartments roughly equidistant between all three (and close to the Mercato Capo), and it was nothing short of fantastic.

The apartments are huge, they have full kitchens including ovens and washing machines, and they are in a great location. Perfect if you want a little more space to spread out. 

Before booking that apartment, we had a couple of nights booked at two separate B&Bs. 

First was La Terrazza Sul Centro , which is in a great location just a few blocks off of Via Vittorio Emanuele. The rooftop terrace has amazing views of Palermo, and the rooms are compact but plenty comfortable for a few nights. 

The other place we had booked was Family Affair B&B Palermo , which is right in the heart of Politeama – Libertà. Rooms are stylish, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable, and the place gets staggeringly good reviews.

What to Do with More Time in Sicily

Have more time or are looking for alternate ideas? Here are some things we wanted to do, but decided we didn’t have enough time to fit into our three weeks on the island.

Obviously, it goes without saying that this is absolutely not an exhaustive list of everything to do on the island (that isn’t in the itinerary above), but it is our wishlist for our next trip to Sicily. 

Add a Night in Trapani to Visit Erice & San Vito Lo Capo : We’ll be honest, we weren’t blown away by Trapani or Erice, which is why you won’t find it in the main itinerary above. Erice is beautiful, sure, with its hilltop town looking down over Trapani to the west and Castellammare del Golfo to the east. But it’s pretty touristy, and only worth a few hours of your time. We skipped San Vito Lo Capo, a beautiful beach town at the northwestern tip of Sicily, because the weather was terrible, and it didn’t seem like we’d be getting the best of the town in mid-October. A night in Trapani should give you enough time to do a day trip to Erice in the morning, and then spend the afternoon out in San Vito Lo Capo.  

Day Trip to Cefalu from Palermo : Cefalu is an easy day trip from Palermo, but given 14 days, we’d opt to spend the two and a half days you have near Palermo in the city itself. With an extra day, take the train out to the beach, hike up to La Rocca for exquisite views, and get a spritz and aperitivo overlooking the beach. 

Explore the Islands Off of Trapani : Spend a couple of days on Favignana, or one of the other islands in the Egadi chain just off the coast near Trapani. You can do it as a day trip, but it’s better as an overnight. Here’s a guide to Favignana that we enjoyed. 

…Or the Aeolian Islands and Stromboli : At the top of our list for a return trip to Sicily? The Aeolian Islands and Stromboli off of the northeastern coast of the island. Stromboli, like Mount Etna, is an active volcano. Except instead of being on the island of Sicily, it’s in the middle of the ocean. The surrounding chain of islands are full of beautiful sandy beaches, and more solitude than you’ll find just about anywhere else in Italy. Here’s a travel guide to peruse for inspiration, if you go this route. 

When to Visit Sicily

We have an interesting point-of-view on this, since we were in Sicily for three weeks starting at the beginning of October. 

Every single travel guide, blog, and post we’ve read about Sicily says something along the lines of “summer is great but it’s too hot and too crowded, so come in shoulder season like September or October instead!” Which is true. Kind of. But that description is missing an important piece of information that we think you should know before deciding when to visit Sicily. 

In October , something happens that is almost certainly going to have an impact on your trip. Small business owners go on vacation. Sometimes it’s for a week, sometimes two, sometimes a whole month. About 30-40 percent of places we tried to go – bars and restaurants, mostly – were on holiday during the first two weeks of October. Some close completely until the following spring! 

Locals we met along the way warned us about this phenomenon, and there were several times during our visit that someone said “we love X restaurant, but it’s closed right now.”

It is worth noting that this phenomenon largely affected the smaller towns in Sicily, rather than cities like Catania and Palermo. 

All the main sights are going to be open (in our experience, anyway), but if you have specific places to eat and drink picked out, there’s a chance they’ll be closed if you come in October. Not necessarily something to stop you from visiting in October, but something to keep in mind as you decide. 

In fact, we’d recommend October, which is when we were in Sicily . Sure, the weather includes a little more rain and thunderstorms (not as many as your weather app will make you think, however, don’t trust any weather app – I’m convinced they’re all out to set expectations low so that you’re stoked when it’s 75 and sunny out), but it’s also relatively quiet and calm, and we basically had most of the places we went to ourselves, or shared them with a small group. Plus, parking was a breeze everywhere we went – we only paid for parking in a city ONCE. 

September is better if you want to eat out, experience the nightlife, and things like that. It’s a nice blend between the weather in summer (but slightly more bearable), and the lighter crowds. 

Summer – June through August – is blazing hot, which makes it far less pleasant to be trekking around the Valley of the Temples, or hiking in the Zingaro Nature Preserve. Crowds are higher too, which means a corresponding increase in prices. 

Still, there’s a reason Sicily in the summer is so popular – it’s beautiful, the weather is perfect (okay, it’s a little hot), and there’s a palpable energy that comes with thousands of people descending on the island. It does mean that you’ll be waiting in more lines, circling for parking spaces more often, and paying more for your accommodations and rental car. 

Late fall, winter, and early spring are going to be very, very quiet. Things are closed, the weather isn’t great (though still better than northern Italy, for sure), and it’s generally not the best time to visit if you want to have a Sicily experience full of sunshine, amazing views, and stunning sandy beaches. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

AMAZING ARTICLE!

Thanks a lot for making such a detailed trip for us. Im going there in a Month, following many of these tips you gave.

Thanks !! 🙂

No problem, Bastian! Hope you had an amazing trip. We LOVED Sicily!

Great post, thank you! We are also going in October, but sadly only have 8 days/nights. We were planning on flying into Catania and out of Palermo but instead will follow your advice and stick to just one side. At that time, 3rd week in October, would you recommend the South/East around Catania or the North/West around Palermo? We were most looking forward to Taormina and hiking the Zigaro reserve, so will have to decide between the 2. Knowing the weather will likely not be ideal and we wont be swimming, and perhaps spending more time away from the coast, I wonder if one of the cities is “better” than the other? Did you prefer one city over the other? Thanks!

Hey Lauren! Sadly, I think your trip might have already happened, but I’m going to answer this anyway in case others have the same question.

With limited time, we’d opt for the southeast corner of the island, where you have Catania, Etna, Taormina, and Siracusa all within a relatively short distance. Plus, they’re all connected by a regional train line, so you don’t necessarily need a car.

That being said, we also really like Palermo, so if you’ve only got 3-5 days, you could make a strong case to spend it all on Palermo with a day trip to Cefalù (or something else nearby).

Many thanks, Matt! Your ‘Perfect Sicily Road Trip’ article is most informative. We are retired and planning an eight-week trip to Italy next October – November, with one month in Sicily. Although you identify shortcomings for late fall in Sicily, the trade off may be less tourists. Thank you for sharing your experiences and your recommendations.

Definitely, it’s all about tradeoffs! There will definitely be things closed, but there will be far less people. We were there in October and, while it wasn’t beach weather, it was amazing.

Hi there! I’m planning my honeymoon for ~12 days in Sicily in July. We want our trip to be romantic and less fast-paced than a typical sight-seeing vacation – we don’t want to have too many travel days moving locations! Do you have a recommendation of which side of Sicily or which towns we should prioritize for a romantic low-stress honeymoon? Thank you!

We’d definitely do the southeastern corner of Sicily in that case! There’s a TON to do and see within a few hours in a car/on a train, so you can get a nice balance of relaxing and exploring. With a slower pace, you could do something like Catania, Taormina, and Siracusa over those 12 days, with day trips to Etna and Noto. Sounds like an amazing honeymoon!

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Sicily Road Trip: Plan The Ultimate 14 Day Sicily Itinerary 

01 apr 2024 25 jan 2024 | dan.

Big scenery, epic history, rich culture, amazing food and wine: this is road tripping at its very best. In this post, we share our ideal 14 Day Sicily Itinerary, taking in the top attractions right across the island for a Sicily road trip you won’t soon forget.  

Tucked off the tip of Italy’s boot, the island of Sicily has been luring people to her shores at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea for millennia.  

Throughout the ages, waves of people – Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, the list goes on – have all added their cultural spice to Sicily’s great mortar pot, creating the rich and vibrant society that exists today. They’ve also left an extraordinary legacy of living traditions, amazing historic sites and delicious flavours. 

Add to the mix golden sandy beaches and offshore isles lapped by azure seas, rustic villages where life goes on much as it has forever, beautiful Baroque cities and medieval old towns, monumental ancient temples, six World Heritage areas (with multiple sites to visit), sweeping mountains and valleys, and two of the world’s most active volcanoes. It’s little wonder Sicily continues to draw people from around the world today.  

For us, Sicily encapsulates everything we love about road tripping: roads through big, beautiful landscapes, layers of visible history, a vivid cultural scene and, best of all, pasta and vino!  

We came not knowing quite what to expect. We left knowing we have to come back. 

Our own Sicily road trip was just shy of two weeks and we loved it. With hindsight though, there are things we would do differently if we did the trip again.  

This is the result: a curated 2 week Sicily itinerary that takes on board our own learnings and experiences of exploring and driving in Sicily, and showcases the very best highlights around the island.  

Sicily Road Trip Snapshot Start & Finish: Palermo, Sicily  Distance: If you do everything in this itinerary, you’ll travel around 1,300km (810 miles) give or take; more if you do some of the suggested extra activities.   How long does it take? This is a self-drive 14 Day Sicily itinerary. See further on for our suggestions if you have less time or more time . Overnight stops: 3 nights in Palermo, 2 nights in Trapani, 1 night in Agrigento, 4 nights in Syracuse, 2 nights in Taormina and 1 night in Cefalù.   

What’s in this post?

Planning a Sicily Road Trip Getting to Sicily What’s the route? Best time to visit Sicily Where to stay in Sicily Driving in Sicily 14 Day Sicily Road Trip Itinerary Day 1 – Arrive Palermo Day 2 – Palermo Day 3 – Palermo Day 4 – Trapani via Segesta & Erice Day 5 – Trapani Day 6 – Selinunte & Agrigento Valley of the Temples Day 7 – Syracuse via Villa Romana del Casale Day 8 – Syracuse Day 9 – Day trip to Ragusa & Noto Day 10 – Day trip to Catania Day 11 – Taormina Day 12 – Day trip to Mount Etna Day 13 – Cefalù Day 14 – Depart Palermo

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Planning a Sicily Road Trip

Getting to sicily.

Our Sicily travel itinerary starts and finishes in the city of Palermo on the island’s north-west coast. You can fly direct to Palermo’s Falcone-Borsellino Airport (also known as Punta Raisi) from various cities in Italy and other parts of Europe.   

As this is a looping itinerary, you could also fly into Catania in the east, or Trapani in the west, and set out from either of those cities. 

Alternatively, if you’re travelling by car from mainland Italy, you can take the 30-minute car ferry from Reggio Calabria in Italy’s south-west to the Sicilian port city of Messina on the island’s north-east, and make Taormina your starting point. 

What’s the route?

If you road trip Sicily with this itinerary, you’ll start with a couple of days in Palermo. From there, you’ll travel in an anti-clockwise loop around the island, finishing back in Palermo (for alternative start and finish points, take a look at the ‘Getting to Sicily’ section above).  

En route, you’ll experience the very best of Sicily’s natural, cultural and historic highlights: a mezze of charming villages, time capsule cities, ancient places, World Heritage sites, sensational food, and epic mountain and coastal scenery, including Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanos.  

Is two weeks in Sicily enough for a whole-island road trip?   Two weeks is the very minimum we would recommend for an itinerary in Sicily that takes in the main sites and attractions across the island. This is, after all, the largest island in the Mediterranean. Our road trip covers a lot of ground, but we make up for the car stints with plenty of sightseeing and getting out and about.   Also, while Sicily has many lovely beaches, we should note that we haven’t included beach time in this itinerary (we’d personally rather explore a medieval town). If you’re keen for some sea and sand, there are opportunities along the way to swap out some activities with time on the beach. If you have less than two weeks in Sicily , we recommend you focus your road trip on either the east side of the island (Syracuse, Catania, Taormina and Etna) or the west side (Palermo, Trapani and Agrigento).   If you have more than two weeks , you can slow the pace and add some down time, beach time, or more activities along the way. Some of the things we’d do with more time include:  > Exploring Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve and San Vito Lo Capo in north western Sicily.  > Sailing out to the Aeolina Islands, an archipelago including Lipari and the active volcano, Stromboli.  > Visiting the Egadi Islands of Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo off Trapani.  > Spending more time exploring the Baroque cities of the Val di Noto . 

Best time to visit Sicily

Sicily sits at the heart of the Mediterranean, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.  

Like many places around the Med, summer sees a rush on Sicily’s coastal towns and beaches, and prices reflect it. We’re not big fans of high heat or crowded sites so we would personally steer clear of Sicily over the peak months of July to September, as well as holiday periods like Easter.   

During winter, the temps drop, it gets quiet and you’ll find many sites, restaurants and activities have shorter hours or close down entirely. You won’t find much happening outside of the major towns.  

Based on our personal experience of road tripping Sicily in April plus some research, the shoulder periods of April to June and October seem to be the best times of year to travel as the weather is milder but it’s still not too busy.  

Where to stay in Sicily

It’s easy with a big itinerary like this to wind up staying in a different town every night. When we’re road tripping though, our preference is to find a place we can stay for a couple of days and use that as a base for day trips in the car.  

It means we can settle into our stay, get a little familiar with the place, and we don’t have to stress about leaving luggage in the car while we’re out sightseeing.  

All of the overnight stops in this Sicily itinerary are in cities or decent-sized towns with a range of accommodation to suit various budgets and travel styles. As you’ll be self-driving, you’ll want to look for places to stay with parking on-site or nearby.

We recommend you arrange your accommodation before you visit, especially if you’re heading to Sicily during a peak period.  

Sorting out accommodation and parking in advance also means far less hassle on arrival, particularly if you’re planning to stay in the historic centre of a town – many of Sicily’s historic centres have restricted traffic zones, meaning you can’t drive your car into them (read more about these in the ‘Driving in Sicily’ section below).

You can book accommodation for Sicily through all major booking engines. For this trip, we booked our accommodation through Booking.com .   

Driving in Sicily

Having driven extensively on the Italian mainland, and having also read plenty of disconcerting reports, it’s fair to say we were a little apprehensive about driving in Sicily. As we were told on more than one occasion, ‘road rules are more like suggestions’ here.  

That said, once you get to grips with the ‘every person for themselves’ mentality on the road, navigating the local approach to driving becomes much easier. Just be ready for it, and drive defensively.   

Unless you’re driving your own car over from mainland Italy, you’ll need a hire car for this trip. We’ve found Rental Cars has a great range of cars and competitive prices but we also suggest checking Discover Cars to find the best deal you can.

In the meantime, here are some key considerations when you’re planning to road trip Sicily: 

> Book your car rental in advance : This goes for every place, but booking your hire car well before you go means you can wrangle a better deal, and that can make a big difference in this post-Covid era of high car rental costs. Go for a smaller car too if you can: you’ll thank us the first time you try to park it or drive down a village laneway.

If you follow this itinerary, you won’t need a hire car until Day 4 as you’ll be spending your first couple of days exploring the city of Palermo.  

> Download offline Google maps for Sicily : That way you’ll have GPS navigation even if you don’t have internet. Also, bring a car charger for your phone.  

> There are two toll roads on the island, the A18 and the A20 : If you end up on one, you’ll pass a ticket booth. Don’t drive through the raised barrier without taking a ticket. At the end of the toll road, there’ll be another ticket booth where you present the ticket and pay. On approach, keep an eye out for the cash and card lanes and avoid the Telepass (etag) lanes. 

> Avoid driving in the Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) : You’ll encounter these limited traffic zones in most historic town centres across Sicily. Every entrance to a ZTL will be marked by a sign showing a red circle with a white centre. Some signs may indicate certain hours that the ZTL is active. We found it’s generally safer to just assume they’re always active and avoid them. You will be fined if you drive into a ZTL without a permit. 

>   Plan your parking : To be honest, when you’re road tripping anywhere, but especially in places like Sicily, finding parking can make or break your day. You’ll save a whole lot of time and stress if you work out where you’re going to park before you visit a place. John is religious about this and always marks up several parking options on Google maps before we set out. It makes a massive difference. Have a backup or two just in case your first choice is full. 

• Carparks and street parking : Many towns have dedicated carparks or parking garages, called parcheggios . These are usually paid car spaces.
• Street parking : You’ll often see parking spaces on the street or in car parks marked with blue, white and yellow lines. You can park for a fee in parking spaces marked with blue lines. Check the signs as sometimes hours of operation apply. White lines mean either free parking or residents parking. Again, check signs before parking in white line spaces as you’ll be fined if you park in residents parking without a permit. Yellow lines are disabled parking spaces.  
• Parking when visiting ZTLs : When visiting any town with a historic centre, find the nearest car park outside the old town and walk in. If your accommodation is located within a ZTL, ask your accommodation provider for their advice on where to park. 
• Factor daily parking costs into your trip budget : You will be up for parking costs on a daily basis throughout this trip, with fees ranging from a couple of euros for a couple of hours to €20+ for overnight parking in some places.

> Don’t leave valuables in your car : This is common sense and a general rule of thumb. Sometimes it’s unavoidable though. In those cases, have everything you need ready to go with you in the car before you arrive somewhere (including valuables like passports), so you don’t need to open the car boot. Make sure everything else is tucked away out of sight and the car is locked.  

14 Day Sicily Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – arrive palermo.

Highlights: Evening in Palermo’s Historic Centre (Centro Storico) Total driving distance: No driving today. As you’ll be visiting Palermo over the next couple of days, save on car hire fees and collect your hire car from the airport on the morning of Day 4.       Total driving time: No driving today . Overnight: Palermo

Palermo is the largest city in Sicily and the island’s capital. A port city since ancient times, Palermo’s architecture, culture and cuisine have evolved with a distinct imprint of the diverse civilisations that have conquered and ruled here. You’ll notice Arab and Norman influences, along with Byzantine, Lombard, French and others. 

Palermo is also home to the ‘Arab-Norman Palermo’ World Heritage area, which includes seven sites across the city, plus the cathedrals at Cefalù and Monreale. You’ll have a chance to visit some of Palermo’s sites over the coming days.      

Travelling from the airport to Palermo

You can get from Palermo Airport to the city by bus, train and taxi.  

The shuttle bus is a comfortable, low-cost option. The bus company is called Prestia e Comandé and the journey from the airport to Palermo Central Station takes around 45 minutes to an hour. You can buy tickets here .

The train from Palermo Aeroporto station to Palermo Centrale station is also a low-cost option and takes between 35 minutes and an hour depending on the service. You can find timetables and buy tickets in advance via Trainline .

Taxis unfortunately have a bad rap in Palermo, with travellers often complaining of being scammed or overcharged. Uber Black launched in 2022 but is apparently expensive. There is no UberX.  

Benvenuti in Sicilia!  

Welcome to Sicily! Today is about arriving, settling into your accommodation, and getting ready to explore Palermo and road trip Sicily.  

Tonight, head to one of Palermo’s ambient squares, such as Piazza Olivella or Piazza Sant’Anna , for a wine or aperitivo, and plates of local Palermo specialities like arancini (rice balls) and pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines).  

Where to stay in Palermo  

As the next couple of days are all about Palermo’s highlights (and you don’t have to worry about parking just yet), we suggest staying in or near Palermo’s historic centre, the Centro Storico . There are several districts in this area, including Castellamare, La Kalsa, Il Capo and Albergheria/Ballarò. The major attractions are around here, along with plenty of bars and restaurants.  

Palermo is a big city with all the diversity of accommodation options that brings. The following suggested options are all in and around the Centro Storico and get great reviews: 

• Good value: Bed and Breakfast D’Angelo  
• Mid-range: Ballarooms B&B Palermo Centro  
• Spend a bit more: Palazzo Santamarino Luxury Suite and Spa  

Sicily’s north west corner When we travelled, we stayed more than an hour away from Palermo in the village of Scopello and used this as a base. Our stay, Hotel La Tavernetta , was a real treat for us – it’s a lovely place with gorgeous coastal views. With hindsight though, we feel it would be more convenient to stay in or close to Palermo, at least for the first couple of days of this itinerary. Scopello is actually the gateway to Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve , famed for its secluded beaches, rugged mountain scenery, walking and birding opportunities.   Lo Zingaro stretches away to the north and the town San Vito Lo Capo , which is said to be home to one of Sicily’s most beautiful beaches.   Sadly, we didn’t have time to explore this area when we visited and we haven’t included it in this itinerary. But if you have more than 2 weeks in Sicily , this is definitely an area worth devoting a couple of days to. Alternatively, if nature calls to you more loudly than towns, then you could swap out the days in Trapani for time here instead. 

Day 2 – Palermo

Highlights: Palermo’s Centro Storico Total driving distance: No driving today. Pick up your hire car from Palermo Airport on the morning of Day 4.   Total driving time: No driving today . Overnight: Palermo

Today is a packed day of sightseeing in Palermo.  

We love to get oriented in new places by joining a guided walking tour. A city tour will introduce you to some of Palermo’s top spots, give you an overview of the city’s rich history, and help you narrow down where you’d like to spend more time. 

Here’s one guided walking tour option but there’s also a range of themed tours you can take in Palermo, covering everything from the city highlights and World Heritage sites to street food and Palermo’s anti-mafia movement.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Palazzo dei Normanni (also known as the Royal Palace) and its exquisitely beautiful Palatine Chapel . Other must-sees are Palermo Cathedral (head to the roof for great views), the Byzantine mosaic masterpieces at the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio , and the Arab-Norman Church of San Cataldo right next door.   

Also nearby is the 16th-century Fontana Pretoria , better known as the ‘Fountain of Shame’ on account of its marble nudes. The monastic neighbours of the day were apparently unamused. 

Day 3 – Palermo

Highlights: Markets | Teatro Massimo | Capuchin Catacombs | Monreale Cathedral Total driving distance: No driving today. You’ll pick up your hire car from Palermo Airport tomorrow morning.   Total driving time: No driving today. Overnight: Palermo

Start today by immersing in the bustle of one of Palermo’s outdoor markets . These are a legacy of the city’s 9th century days under Arab rule as the capital of the Emirate of Sicily. There’s a market in each of the city’s four historic quarters. The most popular for tourists is Mercato di Ballarò . The markets are open daily except Sunday and they’re most buzzy in the mornings. As with all markets and busy places, watch your pockets and keep your valuables close.

After the markets, maybe join a tour of the ornate Teatro Massimo , the third largest theatre in Europe. There’s also the morbidly fascinating Capuchin Catacombs , where thousands of mummified bodies line the walls. 

If you’re a World Heritage seeker like us, consider an afternoon trip to the World Heritage Monreale Cathedral . Take bus 389 from Piazza Indipendenza, behind the Palazzo dei Normanni and time your arrival for when the Cathedral reopens after lunch at 2pm (Sundays it’s only open in the afternoon).  

Day 4 – Trapani via Segesta & Erice  

Highlights: Segesta Archaeological Park | Erice ‘s medieval streets and views | Dinner in Trapani Total driving distance: appx. 115km (71 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 2 hours Overnight: Trapani

Pick up your hire car from Palermo Airport

Our Sicily road trip starts in earnest today and we recommend an early start. Get the shuttle bus back to Palermo Airport and head to the arrivals hall where the car rental companies are located.  

Remember to arrange your car hire well in advance to get a good deal. Check out Rental Cars and Discover Cars to find the right option for you.

Once you have your hire car, set a course for Segesta Archaeological Park . It’s a drive of around 35-40 minutes from the airport. 

Morning at Segesta Archaeological Park

The extraordinary Doric Temple of Segesta is one of the best-preserved temples of its kind in the world. So we were surprised to learn it’s not a World Heritage site. However that fact, along with its location in a remote mountainous setting, probably explains why it’s a little less busy than some of Sicily’s other ancient sites. 

There’s a paid park-and-ride system in place here, so once you’ve found a parking spot and bought a ticket, take the shuttle bus up to the temple. The site opens from 9am and the shuttle buses run every 15 minutes or so. 

There’s also a stunningly-sited Greco-Roman Theatre nearby, tucked into the summit of Mount Barbaro and overlooking the Gulf of Castellamare. It’s also accessible by shuttle from the parking area, or you can hike up to it in around 30 minutes.  

Afternoon in Erice  

Back in the car, set the GPS for Erice, a drive of around 45 minutes. 

Charming Erice is a medieval hill town overlooking the coastal city of Trapani. The switchback drive up the 750-metre-high mountain is an experience in itself! 

At the top, there are several paid parking areas located near the town’s gates, which served as the guarded entry points for the once-walled city.  

Erice is a compact town of cobblestone streets and pretty plazas made for meandering. Its long history is still evident in the remains of fortifications and architecture from Elymian and Phoenician through to Norman and more recent times.  

Check out the 12th century Castello di Venere (it’s currently closed but the sight of the fortress itself and its commanding views make this a highlight). Tucked into the mountain below the castle is the 19th century mini-fort, Torretta Pepoli . Also near the castle is the Garden of Balio , a peaceful place to pause.  

Erice has dozens and dozens of churches. In fact, there are so many there’s a cost-saving ‘Church Ticket’ if you’re planning to visit more than one with paid entry. If one is enough and you don’t know which to choose, we recommend the cathedral, Real Duomo .  

Don’t leave Erice without sampling some of its tasty almond pastries. You’ll find pastry shops ( pasticceria ) throughout the town, but most people make a beeline for Pasticceria Maria Grammatico , an institution since 1950. 

Lastly, views. Half the fun of wandering Erice is stumbling upon its many epic viewpoints . If you can, time your visit so that you’re there late afternoon as the sun drops and bathes the whole coast in a golden glow.

Kisses of Venus Crowning a mountaintop as it does, Erice is prone to an occasional foggy embrace. Locals charmingly call it ‘kisses of Venus’, but those kisses are a literal scene stealer. Once the cloud moves in, the views disappear. The fog may pass quickly but it can also hang around. If your visit to Erice looks to be under threat of weather or settled cloud, consider swapping your visit to tomorrow morning.

Evening in Trapani    

You can stay overnight in Erice, but it can get pretty quiet in the evenings, particularly out of peak season. For this reason, you might want to consider heading back down the mountain and spending the night in Trapani, where there are more accommodation options. 

Trapani is around 25-30 minutes from Erice. Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, head out for a wander and dinner. Via Garibaldi and Corso Vittorio Emanuele , which are among the city’s oldest streets, are particularly lovely for an evening meander. If you time it right, you may find yourself among throngs of locals out enjoying the very Italian tradition of passeggiatta (a leisurely evening stroll) with their family and friends. 

Trapani has been a fishing town for about as long as people have lived here, so you’re guaranteed to find a sensational seafood dinner tonight. Maybe try a steaming bowl of fish couscous; it’s the town’s most famed dish.  

Where to stay in Trapani  

Trapani’s historic centre is the more ambient part of the city to stay in, but prices are generally a bit higher and you’ll need to park outside of the ZTL and walk in. There’s a large paid car park at Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele. Some suggested Trapani accommodations with great reviews include: 

• Good value: Appartamento Scarlatti  
• Mid-range: Enea Apartment  
• Spend a bit more: Dimora Botteghelle  

Day 5 – Trapani

Highlights: Trapani’s Centro Storico | Trapani Salt Pans Total driving distance: 16km (10 miles) return if visiting the Salt Museum and surrounds Total driving time: appx. 30 minutes Overnight: Trapani

Morning and early afternoon in Trapani  

The coastal town of Trapani is the launchpad to some fantastic west Sicily adventures, like the Egadi Islands and Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve. But….these adventures will have to wait for your next Sicily trip. This morning, we’re exploring Trapani’s old town, the Centro Storico .  

Start with an early morning visit to the local fish market, Mercato del Pesce . Then wander out along the spit to the coastal watchtower, Torre di Ligny , for views back towards the city.  

Next, enjoy a stroll around the narrow streets of the Centro Storico . Along the way, check out the Cathedral of San Lorenzo , the Baroque Church of the Holy Souls in Purgatory , and the Palazzo Senatorio .  

Also keep an eye out (and up) for the astrological clock on the city’s oldest gate, the Porta Oscura e Torre Dell’Orologio , next to Palazzo Senatorio. 

Late afternoon at the Trapani Salt Pans   

Later today, jump in the car and head south around 10 minutes to the Museo del Sale near the village of Nubia. This small museum with a 17th century windmill tells the story of the ancient salt pans stretching south from here to Marsala.

You can visit the salt pans independently or join one of the museum’s guided tours to learn about the long and sometimes spicy history of ’white gold’ production in western Sicily. Ancient traditions are still used in the salt extraction today.  

Afterwards, have a wander among the surrounding salt pans. The museum usually closes around 7pm but check in advance. 

If you don’t feel like driving, here’s a guided tour of the salt pans departing from Trapani.

If you’re making your own way though, we reckon a lovely way to finish today would be to hit up one of the restaurants or bars along the stretch of coast here and enjoy an aperitivo, or perhaps dinner, as the sun sets over the sea. Something we wish we’d done!

Day 6 – Selinunte & Agrigento

Highlights: Ancient Selinunte | Valley of the Temples Agrigento Total driving distance: appx. 185km (115 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 3 hours Overnight: Agrigento

Today we farewell Trapani and head south then east to visit two more of Sicily’s epic ancient temple sites.  

Vast Selinunte Archaeological Park is spectacularly located by the sea. Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples is World Heritage and one of the most majestic Greek temple complexes still standing today.  

This is a BIG day and if two large ancient sites sounds like too much, you could make a later start from Trapani this morning and head straight to Agrigento, skipping Selinunte. If you had to choose one, go with the World Heritage Valley of the Temples. 

Having said that, for us, Selinunte – off the beaten track and peacefully ambient – was a surprise highlight of our 2 weeks in Sicily so if you love history, we reckon it’s worth the effort to visit both. If you do, be ready for lots of walking – wear comfy shoes and sun protection. 

Morning at Selinunte Archaeological Park  

If you do plan to visit both sites today, we recommend being on the road by 8am at latest . There are a couple of routes from Trapani to Selinunte. The fastest route is inland and south via the the SS113 and takes around 1hr15. Or you can follow the SS115 via Marsala, which takes around 1hr30.

Selinunte was a thriving Greek colony from around the 7th century BC, set in a commanding location by the sea. Around 409BC, the Carthaginians invaded, killing most of Selinunte’s inhabitants and taking many away as slaves. The city never recovered and was totally destroyed 240 years later in the First Punic War. 

Despite its fall so long ago, there’s still plenty to see here, including the impressive Selinunte temples and acropolis (Temple E is the largest and best preserved), city wall remains, and the ruins of homes, shops and civic buildings.

What really struck us as we wandered the pathways here was the broken terracotta everywhere underfoot, and the giant piles of temple rubble. It really brought home the reality of Selinunte’s total destruction.  

Selinunte is open daily from 9am and closes at 5pm in winter and 7pm in summer. Allow around 3 hours here.

If you want to grab some lunch before heading on to Agrigento, there are a number of restaurants in Marinella, the town next door. 

Detour via Sicily‘s White Cliffs    If you’re making good time today, there’s a small detour you can make around 15-20 minutes before you reach Agrigento: the Scala dei Turchi , or Stairs of the Turks, a stunning stretch of gleaming white, meringue-like cliffs.      For some reason, this place completely eluded our radar when we were planning our Sicily road trip and we’re kicking ourselves. We’ve since learned though that after years of human impact, and for its long-term preservation, the Scala dei Turchi are no longer directly accessible.   However, you can still view the cliffs from lookouts such as the Belvedere Scala dei Turchi along Contrada Scavuzzo, or from Majata Beach . There’s free street-side parking if you can find it, or paid parking near Majata Beach.

Afternoon at Valley of the Temples, Agrigento

From Selinunte, the drive to Agrigento is an easy 1hr30 cruise along the SS115.

Agrigento was one of the most important cities of Magna Grecia (greater Greece) from the 6th century BC. To honour their gods, the people of the city built a number of imposing Doric temples along its southern edge in the 5th and 4th centuries BC.  

Like Selinunte, Agrigento was conquered over and over, before Rome sacked the city in 210BC. Yet somehow, despite pillage, earthquakes and the ravages of time, the temples here remain among the most impressive and best-preserved in the world.  

Ironically, the Valley of the Temples is on a ridge rather than in a valley. You’ll see some of the site’s temple columns rising above the landscape on the road approach to the archaeological area.  

We parked at Porta V along Viale Caduti di Marzabotto. As you’ll be coming from the south, this is the first parking area you’ll come across. This is a paid parking site with hourly rates and a maximum day rate. The ticket office is nearby.  

Agrigento Archaeological Park is huge and spreads out across western and eastern zones on either side of the Strada Provinciale 4, with a pedestrian overpass connecting the two zones. It’s around 2km from one end to the other and an electric shuttle bus runs between them, costing around €3.  

There are seven Doric-style temples to explore and they’re all worth visiting. The most complete and impressive is the Temple of Concordia in the eastern zone. In the western zone, the mostly ruined Temple of Dioscuri has a lovely backdrop of the surrounding valley and the city of Agrigento rising behind it. 

We were happy to wander the Valley of the Temples on our own, and there’s an official app with audio guides you can download. But if you’re interested in having a guide show you around, here’s a well-rated tour that also lets you skip the ticket queue. 

Aim to spend at least a couple of hours at the Valley of the Temples. If you can stretch your visit through sunset and into the evening, then definitely do – the setting sun makes the temples glow and they are beautifully lit up at night.  

The Valley of the Temples is open daily from 8.30am to 8pm, and till quite late during summer. Entry is free until 7pm on the first Sunday of the month. 

Where to stay in Agrigento

There are plenty of places to stay in Agrigento city itself, a 5 minute drive north of the Valley of the Temples. Check with your accommodation about parking though as there is a ZTL in the city’s historic centre. Here are some suggested Agrigento stays:  

• Good value: B&B Le Stanze Al Centro   
• Mid-range: B&B Sorahnia – Design House  
• Splash out: Villa Athena Resort  

We personally opted to stay around 5 minutes east of the Valley of the Temples in the suburb of Villaggio Mosè at the pleasant and reasonably-priced Villa Concordia , with secure parking facilities. This was well located for the ancient site, we just found the local eating options pretty limited. 

Day 7 – Syracuse via Villa Romana del Casale

Highlights: Villa Romana del Casale | Ortigia’s Cittá Vecchia Total driving distance: appx. 225-245km (140-152 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 3.25 hours Overnight: Syracuse

Today, we’re heading towards Syracuse on Sicily’s east coast. This will be your base for the next four nights as you explore this evocative and historic city, and day trip to three spectacular Baroque towns in the Val di Noto region: Ragusa, Noto and Catania.  

First stop this morning though is the extraordinary Villa Romana del Casale, a drive of around 1hr15.  

Morning at Villa Romana del Casale  

If you see one excavated ancient Roman villa in your lifetime, make it this one. While there are various theories about who owned this vast and lavish home on the slopes of Mount Mangone in the 4th century, whoever it was had some serious means.  

The Villa Romana del Casale has been designated World Heritage, in the main for its mosaic floors. No less than 3,500 square metres of mosaic masterpieces decorate the villa. Covered over time by mud from the mountain, they survived the ravages of invaders and the ages and today, they are considered among the best preserved and most beautiful in situ mosaics ever found . This is a must for your Sicily trip itinerary. 

All of the mosaics here wowed us, but we particularly loved the the Great Hunt mosaic . This 60-metre-long depiction of Romans hunting and capturing wild and exotic animals in Africa is truly epic, like an ancient tesserae version of a feature-length film. Also look out for the famous mosaic of bikini-clad women playing sport – an unexpected insight into the times. 

The Villa Romana del Casale is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and until 7pm during summer. There’s a car park on site that costs a couple of euros. Aim to spend around 2 hours here. 

We picked up some sandwiches from a local pasticceria before leaving Agrigento this morning. But if you want to stop for lunch after visiting the Villa, Trattoria La Ruota just 3 minutes up the road gets great reviews.

Leaving luggage in your car Villa Romana del Casale is one of several stops on this itinerary where you will be stopping to sightsee with luggage in your car. We generally try to avoid doing this as car break-ins are always a possibility, no matter where you are, and no one wants to spend their trip filing police reports, chasing insurance and buying new undies. If you don’t mind a bit of backtracking in some places, then you might prefer to drive to your accommodation, drop off your luggage and come back. This is not always an easy option though. Villa Romana, for example, is a long drive from both Agrigento and Syracuse. In these situations, we had everything important and valuable with us in our daypacks (which we carried with us), left nothing visible in the car and locked everything up tight. We had no issues throughout our trip. There are no guarantees in life though, all you can do is plan ahead, take precautions and have travel insurance!

Afternoon and evening in Ortigia, Syracuse  

From Villa Romana del Casale, set the GPS for Syracuse. The drive can take up to 2 hours depending on the route and traffic. 

The ancient city of Syracuse has a history spanning 3,000 years. Once the most powerful city state of Magna Graecia, it went on to become part of Rome and then capital of the Byzantine Empire in the 7th century. Along its journey to the present, it absorbed the weaves of various cultures from right around the Mediterranean. Today, Syracuse is a World Heritage site.    

The highlight of a visit to Syracuse is Ortigia Island . This tiny walled hamlet is Syracuse’s Cittá Vecchia , the Old City, and this is where the founding colony was established.  

Ortigia is beautifully Baroque and we really enjoyed just wandering the streets here. On this first afternoon, if you arrive in time, you might see if there’s a walking tour you can join. Or check out some of the city’s key highlights, like the Piazza Duomo and Syracuse Cathedral . There’s also the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo , said to be one of the oldest Greek temples in the world, and the ancient Fountain of Arethusa . 

Aim to be by the sea for a wander along the Lungomare Alfeo as the sun sets, then find somewhere for an aperitivo and dinner.  

Where to stay in Syracuse

Charming Ortigia is definitely the accommodation drawcard for Syracuse and there are lots of lovely, boutique stays around the island. There are also a couple of parcheggios on the island where you can park the car. Some suggested stays with great reviews on the island include: 

• Good value: B&B Vicolo IV   
• Mid-range: Aretusa Apartments  
• Spend a little more: La Vacanza Ortigia  

Alternatively, there are plenty of accommodation options in the area of Syracuse between Ortigia and Neapolis Archaeological Park. This is a handy part of town to stay as it’s about a 30 minute walk between the two spots.

There are also many lovely farm stays ( agriturismo ) around Syracuse if you’d prefer to stay out of town and drive in.

For our part, we chose to base ourselves around half an hour away in the coastal town of Avola, at a gorgeous bed and breakfast which is sadly not taking bookings at present. To be frank though, while Avola is a lovely place to visit, with hindsight we would have preferred to be based in Syracuse for this leg of our road trip and as such, that’s what we’ve recommended here. 

Day 8 – Syracuse

Highlights: Neapolis Archaeological Park | Ortigia’s Citta Vecchia Total driving distance: No driving today (unless you visit the Necropolis of Pantalica, an 80km (50 mile) round-trip)    Overnight: Syracuse

Morning at Neapolis Archaeological Park    

Of all the things to do in Syracuse, a couple of hours at this amazing open-air museum is a must. If it’s hot, we recommend a morning visit as there’s little shade. We visited in the afternoon and spent the whole time feeling like we were on the verge of spontaneous combustion.  

In Neapolis Archaeological Park, you’ll find some of the most important ruins of Syracuse’s Greco-Roman past, including a 2nd century Roman amphitheatre and a 5th century BC Greek theatre , Sicily’s biggest. Opera performances are held in the theatre between May and June each year. Check out the Instituto Nazionale del Dramma Antico website for what’s on if you’re in town at the right time.  

Our favourite site in the park was the Paradise Quarry (Latomie del Paradiso), with its epic ‘ Ear of Dionysius ’. You’ll immediately see why the artist Caravaggio gave this uniquely-shaped and acoustically-notable quarry cave its nickname. Also worth seeking out is the monumental Altar of Hieron , thought to have been dedicated to Zeus and used for the mass sacrifice of bulls. The park is open daily from 9am to 5.30pm. 

A 10-minute walk from the archaeological park is the Basilica and Catacombs of St John . If you missed the catacombs in Palermo, or if you just find catacombs eerily fascinating like we do, then consider joining one of the guided tours that depart from the ticket office throughout the day.

Afternoon and evening back in Ortigia      

Head back to Ortigia this afternoon to explore more of the island and its highlights. 

If you haven’t been to the cathedral, now’s the time. Also in the Piazza Duomo, you’ll find the Baroque-style Santa Lucia Alla Badia and the lavish, Rococo-style Palazzo Borgia del Casale .  

At the Piazza Archimede , there’s the Fountain of Diana . If you’re feeling peckish, swing by nearby Pasticceria Artale to sample some of their traditional sweet or savoury goodies. 

You could also explore Ortigia’s Jewish Quarter, the Giudeca , and the nearby Forte Vigliena for views. On the very tip of the island hulks the 13th century Castello Maniace , which can also be visited. 

As the sun drops, make your way back to the island’s west for aperitivo hour or head out along the jetty near the Fountain of Arethusa to watch the sun set before finding dinner.

Afternoon alternative: Necropolis of Pantalica   If you’re keen to stretch your legs and get outdoors, an alternative to more time in Ortigia this afternoon is a hike to the ancient Necropolis of Pantalica , with its 5,000 rock-cut tombs. Together with Syracuse, this is a World Heritage site.  We haven’t been here but we understand Pantalica can be reached by heading to the village of Ferla, around an hour from Syracuse. From Ferla, you drive a further 5km (3 miles) along the SR11 until you come to the Pantalica Information Office, where you can find out more about the site and get a map of the area.   Guided tours to Pantalica departing from Ferla can also be arranged for groups of up to four people.

Day 9 – Day trip to Ragusa & Noto  

Highlights: Medieval and Baroque Ragusa Ibla | Baroque Noto Total driving distance: appx. 185km (115 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 3 hours Overnight: Syracuse

The Val di Noto is a region in the south-east of Sicily encompassing eight cities collectively designated as World Heritage for their striking late Baroque architecture. The cities are Catania, Millitello Val di Catania, Caltagirone, Modica, Palazzolo Acreide, Scicli, Ragusa and Noto.

Today we’re visiting the last two of these beauties on a day trip from Syracuse. Tomorrow we visit Catania.

Morning in Ragusa        

Aim to start early today as there’s a lot of ground to cover. We opted to make today’s drive an anti-clockwise loop out of Syracuse rather than backtracking along the E45. So we travelled to Ragusa via the SP14 and SS194. At 1.5 hours, it takes 20 minutes longer than if you go via the E45 but you’ll be travelling in one direction with new scenery all day. 

Pretty Ragusa rises and falls in two defined areas separated by a ravine. There’s the lower ‘old town’ of Ragusa Ibla and the upper ‘new town’ of Ragusa Superiore .  

The city you see is the direct result of a catastrophic earthquake that devastated east Sicily in 1693. Many who survived the destruction moved out of the ruined town and built new homes in the higher area that is now Ragusa Superiore, while others stayed and rebuilt in the old town. Today Ragusa is a World Heritage blend of medieval and Baroque architecture.  

We managed to find free parking in a small carpark at the bottom end of Via Giusti, not far from Ragusa Ibla. There’s also a paid parking area nearby at Parcheggio Repubblica. We then spent most of the morning wandering the charming streets of Ibla between the Cathedral of San Giorgio and the Iblei Gardens .  

In the upper town, you’ll find another beautiful cathedral, Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista on Piazza San Giovanni . If you’re keen to know more about the history of Ragusa, a local museum, the Museo Archaeologico Ibleo di Ragusa, is a 5 minute walk from the cathedral.  

Aim to spend 3 to 4 hours in Ragusa. The town is also renowned for its food scene, so this is a great spot for a sit-down lunch before continuing on (and before the siesta shut down kicks in). If you prefer a quick bite, head to a bakery for Scaccia Ragusana , a delicious calzone-like stuffed flat bread. 

Many a visitor to Ragusa will make the pilgrimage up the 300-odd steps to the church at the top, Chiesa Delle Scale , for the pano views to be found up there. We ran out of time sadly, but there’s another, easier-to-reach rooftop view from the cathedral’s campanile.

Afternoon in Noto        

After lunch, make for the city of Noto. It’s around an hour’s drive east from Ragusa. 

Noto was also levelled by Sicily’s notorious earthquake of the late 17th century. A new town was raised over the destruction, styled in Sicilian Baroque, and this exceptional architectural time capsule is what you see today.  

Take the time to simply wander Noto’s streets and admire the city’s elaborate yet elegant architecture, starting at the city gateway, the Porta Reale and heading west along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele .   

Must-sees include the cathedral, Basilicia Cattedrale di San Nicolo , the Palazzo Ducezio opposite and the bell tower, Il Campanile di San Carlo (both of which offer superb views over the city), as well as the richly decorated theatre, Teatro Tina di Lorenzo . 

There are also a number of beautiful palazzos and churches to visit. We particularly liked Palazzo Nicolaci di Villadorata , Chiesa di San Domenica and Chiesa di San Carlo (which also serves up views from its upper levels).   

If you need a break, pull up a seat outside at Caffe Sicilia on Corso Vittorio Emanuele and order their famous granita cappuccino ghiacciato – granita is a must-try shaved ice Sicilian specialty that comes in a variety of flavours. This was exactly the afternoon pick-me-up we needed.

Also, if it’s a sunny day, it’s worth staying longer here to take in sunset. Noto’s buildings are clad with Noto Stone, a creamy mellow limestone that turns a rich honey colour under the last golden rays of the day.  

For dinner tonight, stay in Noto or make your way back to Syracuse. The drive is around 40 minutes. 

Day 10 – Day trip to Catania

Highlights: Catania’s Baroque Centro Storico Total driving distance: It’s not recommended to drive into Catania but if you do, the journey is appx. 140km return (87 miles)  Total driving time: appx. 1 hour 40 Overnight: Syracuse

Catania is Sicily’s buzzing second city, and the largest town in east Sicily. Having risen and fallen over and again in the shadow of mercurial Etna, Catania has come of age with a bit of a gritty edge. This, and a lack of time in our original itinerary in Sicily, led to us not visiting and with hindsight, we really wish we had. As such, we’ve included the city in this itinerary as a day trip from Syracuse.  

By all accounts, driving in Catania can be a stressful experience, with traffic, ZTLs, one-way streets and parking challenges. So why not leave the car today and take a train instead from Syracuse to Catania Centrale? The journey takes around 1hr15. 

With one day to play with, we would do what we usually do in a new city and seek out a walking tour like this one to introduce us to the city highlights and give us a historical and cultural introduction to the place.  

Catania’s old town – the Centro Storico – is another of the Val di Noto’s Baroque showpieces, but with a very local touch: these elaborate buildings were made with Etna’s own black lava stone.  

The city’s highlights are all located fairly close together and include the Piazza del Duomo with its Cathedral of Sant’Agata and lava stone Elephant Fountain . There’s also the Church of San Benedetto , Palazzo Biscari , the Teatro Romano and the smaller Roman Odeon next door, the triumphal Porta Garibaldi , Basilica della Collegiata and the Teatro Massimo Bellini .  

If you arrive early enough in the day, there’s the historic fish market to visit and, not far from there, Castello Ursino . For Ancient Rome diehards like us: if you wander up to Piazza Stesicoro , you can see a small section of Catania’s once-enormous amphitheatre. 

For lunch today, we’d be seeking out Catania’s own pasta specialty of eggplant and ricotta: Pasta alla Norma . Or considering a street food walking tour like this one if there’s time. Or both. We’re in Sicily, after all. 

Alternative to Catania Sightseeing   If a day of Catania sightseeing doesn’t appeal, there are loads of other things to do in and around Syracuse. Some of things we’ve got on our list for next time:    > Get to know the local vino on a winery tour (Nero D’Avola – yum!).  > Learn the art of Sicilian cooking with a cooking class.  > Get out on the water for a boat tour around Ortigia.  > Stretch your legs on the hike to the Necropolis of Pantalica.  Or simply enjoy some beach time at one of Syracuse’s sandy beaches, like San Lorenzo Beach or Fontane Bianche Beach.

Day 11 – Syracuse to Taormina

Highlights: Ortigia Market | Taormina Sightseeing Total driving distance: appx. 120km (75 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 1.5 hours Overnight: Taormina

Today we depart Syracuse and head north to the coastal town of Taormina. This will be your base for the next two nights. You’ll spend most of a day and an evening exploring this historic hilltop town, and the next day on the otherworldly slopes of Mount Etna.  

Early morning at Mercato di Ortigia        

Before checking out of your Syracuse accommodation this morning, take the opportunity (if you haven’t already) to visit the Mercato di Ortigia , the city’s famed street market.  

Just as it has been for hundreds of years, this vibrant market is open early six days a week (it’s closed Sundays), selling beautiful, fresh regional food. It runs until 2pm but is at its most bustling in the morning (and there are fewer tour groups). This is a great place to pick up some cured meats and cheeses, or some fresh sandwiches, for the day ahead. 

Rest of day and evening in Taormina          

The drive from Syracuse to Taormina is around 1.5 hours via the A18 and E45. There are tolls on this route.   

Taormina rises and falls over the slopes of Mount Tauro, overlooking a spectacular vista of azure sea and the hazy blue rise of Mount Etna.  

People have lived on this mountain for 2,500 years, but Taormina emerged on the historical stage around the 4th century BC as a Greek colony. It went on to become the Byzantine capital of Sicily before a run of invaders came along and left their mark. 

Taormina is considered by many to be Sicily’s most elegant city. It’s also considered to be one of Sicily’s most touristy and expensive towns, especially during the summer months.  

Don’t let that put you off though. It is a really charming place. And for us, taking in the incredible backdrop of Etna and the coast from the steps of the ancient Greek theatre made Taormina worthy of a visit all on its own!  

Once you’ve parked up, found your accommodation and dropped your bags, spend the rest of the day checking out the various things to do in Taormina. Start with a wander along Corso Umberto , the main thoroughfare through the town linking the historic gates of Porto Catania and Porto Messina .  

In addition to the drawcard 3rd century Greek theatre , highlights here include the chequerboard Piazza IX Aprile and Church of San Giuseppe , along with Taormina Cathedral , the medieval Palazzo Corvaja , and the gardens of the Villa Communale di Taormina . Also search out the beautifully decorated façades, doors and wrought iron balconies along Via Giardinazzo .  

If you fancy stretching your legs later in the day and seeking out some epic views, consider making the hour-long round-trip walk up the trail to the church at the top, Chiesa Madonna della Rocca . 

The beauty of staying at least one night in Taormina is the opportunity to experience the town after the crowds of day-trippers and tour groups have left. Now’s the time to really appreciate the charm of this historic city with a drink and dinner as twilight paints the sky pastel. 

Where to stay in Taormina

Taormina is the most expensive place for accommodation in our Sicily itinerary. Parking is also pricey but if you don’t mind forking out for a spot in one of the city’s carparks (there are four public paid parking areas, including the large Porta Catania which is the closest to Taormina’s main street), then you have plenty of upper mid-range to luxury options in and around the historic centre. 

For budget and lower mid-range accommodation, you’re better off looking outside of the historic centre, although there are a couple of hostels. You might also consider the areas below Mount Tauro, like Mazzarò, which has a cable car up to Taormina, and Giardini-Naxos, which has a bus running up to Taormina from Taormina-Giardini train station. There’s a cheaper carpark next to the train station as well. 

We stayed just near Taormina-Giardini station at the lovely B&B Sottocoperta and found this is an easy and hassle-free way to visit the city. We were also able to park on the street near the hotel for free. 

Some other suggested options are: 

• Budget-conscious: Hostel Taormina “Homstel”  
• Mid-range: B&B Floridia  
• Splash out: Villa Le Terrazze Charming Rooms  

Day 12 – Day trip to Mount Etna

Highlights: Mount Etna Tour Total driving distance: The return drive to Mount Etna is appx. 110km (70 miles) Total driving time: appx. 3 hours Overnight: Taormina

Mount Etna lords over the landscape of Sicily’s northeast. She’s the tallest and most active volcano in Europe and she’s been grumbling her discontent for tens of thousands of years. Recorded eruptions reach back as far as the 4th century BC. 

It goes without saying that Etna has had a monumental impact on the landscape, history and people of Sicily. For her efforts, the mountain has been designated a World Heritage site, and a two week Sicily road trip isn’t a fait accompli without engaging in some way with this history-shaping force of nature.  

There are plenty of companies running guided half-day and full-day tours of Mount Etna from Taormina, Catania and Syracuse, including bike tours and 5 to 6 hour hiking tours. In winter, you can also ski on the north and south sides of the mountain.  

It’s also entirely possible, and easy, to drive to Rifugio Sapienza – the launch pad for activities on the mountain – and join a tour from there. This is what we did, as we wanted the flexibility of driving ourselves so we could stop along the way and take in the staggering and surreal scenery.  

At Rifugio Sapienza, we purchased tickets for a cable car and 4×4 trip on the mountain. This involves a cable car ride up to 2,500 metres, where you board special off-road 4×4 trucks for a drive to 2,920 metres. Once there, a volcano guide takes the group on a guided walk through Etna’s cratered, otherworldly landscape. 

We organised the cable car and 4×4 on arrival but you can book a priority ticket here and skip the queue when you get there.  

On the recommendation of a local, we visited Etna in the morning as clouds tend to gather over the day. We had beautiful blue skies during our visit and it was quite warm on the drive up. Don’t be fooled though, even during the height of summer, it can get very cold up on Etna. Wear layers, bring a warm jacket, a hat, sunnies and wear closed walking or hiking shoes.  

Afternoon winery visit          

Etna has demonstrated her destructive side throughout history, but the mountain’s lava flows have also resulted in rich soil that has given rise to some excellent vino. While you can certainly sample the delicious flavours of the region in the restaurants of Taormina and Catania, if you love wine then it’s definitely worth dropping by a vineyard for a tasting.  

A vineyard visit and tasting in this area requires advance reservation, so book ahead if this is something you’re keen to do. There are MANY places to choose from but one vineyard you might consider, in the direction of Taormina, is Gambino Vini. It’s around an hour from Refugio Sapienza and 45 minutes from Taormina. Gambini reopens from 15 March 2024.

Day 13 – Cefalù

Highlights: La Rocca Hike | Cefalù’s Old Town Total driving distance: appx. 215km (135 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 2.5 hours Overnight: Cefalù   

Today is our last full day in Sicily before we complete our loop of the island and fly out of Palermo tomorrow. We suggest breaking up the long journey back to Palermo with a final stop today in the coastal city of Cefalù. It’s around 2.5 hours from Taormina.

You can stay here overnight or, if you have an early flight out tomorrow, continue on afterwards and stay closer to the airport.

A fishing village with a long past, Cefalù’s terracotta rooftops fan out around the base of La Rocca , the hulking 268 metre-high limestone outcrop that dominates the city skyline. 

One option for the penultimate day of our 14 day Sicily itinerary is to give it over to a sun lounge at one of Cefalù’s beach clubs. Just be aware that it can get very busy on the beaches between May and September and you’ll need to get in early if you want a spot.  

Another option is to make the trek up La Rocca to take in its views and sites, which include the 5th century BC Temple of Diana , the 10th century Church of Santa Anna and, at the summit, the ruins of a Norman castle, Castello di Cefalù .  

It’s a 3.5km round trip to the top, there are strict opening hours (the trail closes either 4pm or 5pm depending on the time of year you visit), and an entry fee of around €5. It’s recommended you don’t hike up during the hottest part of the day as there’s no shade.  

Later, enjoy a wander through Cefalù’s medieval old town, keeping an eye out for the historic Porta Pescara and the old harbour, the curious Lavatoio Medievale (a medieval laundry) and the Museo Mandralisica (housing the private art collection of 19th century Baron Mandralisca and the famed ‘Portrait of an Unknown Man’ from 1465).  

You’ll also find another World Heritage treasure in the 12th-13th century Norman-built Cefalù Cathedral . 

Tonight, enjoy one more sunset aperitivo and a classic Sicilian supper in one of Cefalù’s seaside restaurants.

Where to stay in Cefalù

Cefalu’s Centro Storico is where it’s all happening but, like Taormina, this resort town’s popularity means it’s on the pricier side to stay centrally. If you don’t mind being a bit further out, then you’ll find a better deal. Here are some suggested stays with fab reviews: 

• Good value: I MORI – Holiday Rooms  
• Mid-range: B&B Olas Del Mar   
• Spend a bit more: Abelia Sea Suites

Day 14 – Depart Palermo

Total driving distance: appx. 100km (62 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 1.5 hours

Last day of our epic Sicily road trip!

Leave yourself plenty of time to navigate your way from Cefalù to Palermo Airport and drop off your hire car before checking in.

If you’re flying out later today, this might be an opportunity to sleep in, laze on the beach or enjoy a final wander and a last Sicilian feast in Cefalù. 

And start planning your return to Sicily! 

If you have any questions, thoughts or updates to share in relation to this Sicily road trip, let us know in the comments below!  

For more Italian road trips and adventures, head to our Italy section .

If you’re looking for more great road tripping itineraries and adventures,  check out our Road Trips page , and our  bucket list of 100 ultimate road trips around the world .

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The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Beautiful, mysterious Sicily, with its looming volcano, sparkling azure waters, and hilltop villages, is one of those travel destinations that I have spent most of my life dreaming about. After finally taking a Sicily road trip, I can say confidently that the island was worth the wait… and that we’ll be working our way through another Sicily itinerary before too long.

The largest island in the Mediterranean truly does have it all: whether you’re looking to lounge on a beach, dive headfirst into the cuisine, explore the Roman (or Greek, or Norman, or Arab, or Byzantine) history, or visit famous Mount Etna, a Sicily road trip has something to offer.

Planning your own trip to Sicily and not sure exactly where to go?

We’ve put together this 10 days in Sicily itinerary for first-timers to the island–this is how to make the most of your first Sicily road trip!

Table of Contents

Why to Take a Sicily Road Trip

How we structured this 10 day sicily itinerary, a note on the language of the island, the ultimate 10 day sicily road trip itinerary, other places to visit on your sicily road trip, sicily road trip itinerary map, what to know about driving in sicily, the best time to visit sicily, what to pack for sicily.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Sicily was made for road tripping: with plenty of wide-open spaces, beautiful natural spots, and tiny towns worth visiting, there are few places in Italy more worthy of hitting the open road than Sicily.

Add in a less-than-ideal public transportation system, and a Sicily road trip quickly emerges as the clear best way to explore the island–but you need to be prepared in order to make the most of it.

You could easily create a month-long Sicily itinerary and still leave the island with stones unturned–but let’s face it, most people won’t have that long to spend on the island.

Our Sicily road trip itinerary is designed to hit all the best spots on the island for first-timers to visit, allowing you to get a taste of many different parts of Sicily: complicated yet lovely Palermo, beautiful beaches, and hilltop villages are all covered, as well as some of the most popular cities in Sicily.

Next to each location, we’ve noted the minimum number of full days (so, not counting a day you arrive at 4pm, for example) we’d recommend spending in each location. 

This works out to be quick-paced but reasonable 10 day Sicily itinerary–but if you’re lucky enough to have more time to spend in Sicily, you can extend it far longer, both by increasing the number of days spent in each location and adding new destinations (we’ll provide some suggestions for those below as well).

Though Italian is the official language in Sicily, Sicilian dialect–which is related and yet distinctly different, to the point where Italian speakers will have a hard time understanding it–is widely spoken in Sicily.

In the destinations covered on this Sicily road trip itinerary, you won’t run into many people (especially those who work with or near tourists) who don’t comfortably speak Italian–but if you stop off in smaller towns along the way, you’ll start to hear (and even see, on menus and such) more and more dialect.

As for English, well–like most places in the world, you can get by among those working in the tourism industry by using it, but it’ll be a bit harder here than in most of Italy.

We strongly recommend learning at least some basic Italian phrases before taking your Sicily road trip–the more Italian you speak, the easier your Sicily travels will be.

I don’t speak much Italian, but knowing enough to ask for (and receive) directions, order food in out-of-the-way places, read basic signs, speak with taxi drivers, etc, made our trip a bit simpler.

Palermo: 2 Days

The capital of Sicily is known for being a bit of a rundown place–and though in some ways it is, it’s also a beautiful, laid-back, and endlessly engrossing city. 

We spent an entire week in Palermo and still weren’t ready to leave when it was over, but 2 days in Palermo will be enough to give you a taste of the major sights and start your 10 days in Sicily itinerary off on a great foot.

What to Do in Palermo

Step inside the magnificent palermo cathedral..

Dating back to the 12th century and built in a variety of architectural styles, the beautiful and distinctive Palermo Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the city.

It’s also home to some very unique touches, like a sundial on the floor marked with zodiac signs and an inscription from the Quran on one of the columns near the entrance–both highly unusual for a Catholic church!

Take a walking + food tour in order to see some of Palermo’s best highlights, fast.

Taking a Palermo food and walking tour on one of the first days of your Sicily travels is an excellent way to orient yourself both to the city and to the island as a whole.

Explore historical landmarks, markets, and cuisine while also getting a taste of what Palermo is all about with a fabulous food and walking tour.

We took this fun tour during our trip to Palermo and absolutely loved it!

Book your Palermo food + walking tour today!

Visit the mummies at the Capuchin Crypt of Palermo.

From the 17th to the 19th century in Palermo, increasing numbers of people were mummified in these catacombs–first naturally, and later intentionally, preserving them for all eternity.

The walls of the catacombs are lined with clothed bodies that have their full skeletons intact, staring down at visitors with sometimes disturbingly aware facial features.

No photos are allowed inside, but I can’t impress enough the creepiness of this place–I think it has something to do with the fact that these people are preserved as themselves that adds an extra layer of disturbing to it all, as opposed to places like the catacombs of Paris where the bones are more or less repurposed into artwork using human remains.

If you find catacombs interesting, we highly recommend visiting these during your trip to Sicily–they are, hands down, the most bizarre and fascinating catacombs we have ever seen.

Palermo Travel Tips

You probably don’t need a car here..

Palermo is one of the two major airport hubs in Sicily (Catania is the other), and if you arrive to the island here, we recommend not picking up your rental car until you’re ready to head to Cefalù–it’ll save you both a bit of cash on your rental bill, and a bit of a headache, as you won’t have to worry about parking it.

The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center is the train.

It costs 5 Euros, avoids the hassle of a taxi, and is perfectly comfortable!

Stay in an ideal location, and you should be able to walk everywhere in Palermo.

This is the biggest reason not to kick off your Sicily road trip until after to leave Palermo: here, a car is a liability but doesn’t really add much of a benefit.

You can walk between all of Palermo’s best things to do, so opt for that instead!

Where to Stay in Palermo

Il Lapino  — Home to simple rooms (some with shared bathrooms) and located only a 10-minute walk from the Palermo Cathedral, Il Lapino is very well-reviewed and is an excellent place to stay in Palermo for those on a budget.

Check rates & book your stay at Il Lapino!

Ciuri Ciuri B&B  — Featuring spacious rooms, included breakfast, and an excellent location, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B while in Palermo!

Check rates & book your stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B!

Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel  — Boasting near-perfect reviews, Palazzo Natoli is located in the heart of Palermo, just steps from some of the city’s best highlights. Private balcony views, exceptional customer service, and a delicious daily breakfast are all included here–if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing stay in Palermo, this is it!

Check rates & book your stay at Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel!

Cefalù : 2 Days

Of all the places to visit in Sicily, this is the one outlined on this Sicily road trip itinerary that we personally have the most unfinished business with.

We squeezed a quick visit to Cefalù into one day, but this magnificent seaside town captured our hearts and absolutely deserves more time than that–as we strolled the streets of Cefalù, we fantasized about one day returning here for a month!

In other words, don’t rush: you won’t regret taking two of your 10 days in Sicily to enjoy this beautiful place.

What to Do in Cefalù

Climb to the top of la rocca..

Climbing high over Cefalù to La Rocca takes less than an hour but rewards you with stupendous views over Cefalù and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as providing some interesting stops along the way (namely, the ruins of the Temple of Diana).

Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and ideally, complete this climb in the morning or early evening–the midday sun is brutal up here!

Check out the Cefalù Cathedral.

Not many villages as small as Cefalù have cathedrals as impressive–dating back even further than Palermo’s Cathedral, the Cefalù Duomo is absolutely worth visiting during your Sicily road trip, and if the views at La Rocca weren’t enough for you, you can even climb to the top!

Enjoy being a beach bum.

One of the best things to do in Cefalù is simply to enjoy its beach that is conveniently located right outside of the old town, where you’re never far from gelato or a granita.

Pull up a stretch of sand, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the beauty of Cefalù without stress.

Cefalù Travel Tips

Savor getting lost here..

The small streets and occasional unexpected sea views give Cefalù a delightful charm that completely captivated us during our Sicily travels–this small village is worth wandering aimlessly, and due to its small size, it’s impossible to get too lost along the way.

Where to Stay in Cefalù

Sweet Home Cefalù  — Located practically next door to Cefalù’s beach and complete with both a balcony and a small kitchen, Sweet Home Cefalù gets rave reviews and is the perfect option for budget travelers in Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Sweet Home Cefalù !

Marina House — What’s better than a well-reviewed apartment in the heart of Cefalù? One that’s located right on the water and includes a balcony overlooking the sea!

Check rates & book your stay at Marina House!

Casa Barone Agnello — Housed in an antique home in the center of Cefalù, this impeccably decorated and well-reviewed apartment is perfect for travelers looking for a bit of old-world charm during their trip to Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Barone Agnello!

Taormina: 2 Days

Taormina is probably the most touristic place on this Sicily itinerary, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth adding to your Sicily travels.

Boasting phenomenal views of both Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea, great swimming nearby, and an incredible Greek theatre, Taormina is hard not to love.

What to Do in Taormina

Visit the greek theatre..

Of all the Greek theatres we have visited in world–including ones in Greece itself–this one is by far the prettiest we have ever seen, and a visit here absolutely belongs on your 10 day Sicily itinerary.

On a perfectly clear day, you’ll see an epic view of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea behind the theatre–but even on a slightly cloudy day like when we visited (at least over Mount Etna, that is), the views are still pretty phenomenal.

Take a day trip to Mount Etna.

Want to add a little thrill to your list of things to do in Taormina? Book a day trip to the crater of an active volcano!

On a clear day, the views of  Mount Etna  from Taormina are fantastic–but there’s still nothing like standing on an active volcano with your own two feet.

Whether you want to book  a morning hike ,  a scenic tour , or  a full day trip  that also includes a visit to the beautiful Alcantara Canyons, you’re bound to find a visit to Mount Etna that appears to your travel style.

Book your day trip to Mount Etna today! Morning Hike  |  Scenic Tour  |  Full Day Trip

Go for a swim at Isola Bella.

Home to what are widely considered to be the best beaches in Taormina, summer visitors should definitely add a visit to Isola Bella to their Sicily road trip itinerary!

Though you can easily reach the island yourself from Taormina via the cable car,  a cruise along the coast  paired with visits to the island’s best swimming spots is an excellent day to spend a hot day in Taormina!

Book your  boat cruise around Isola Bella  today!

Taormina Travel Tips

Not everything is within walking distance..

In order to visit some of Taormina’s most popular sights like Isola Bella, and its beaches in general, you’ll need to head down to the seaside via cable car.

Check the weather carefully.

If you’re in town for a couple of days and one day looks clearer than the other, use the clearer day to visit Mount Etna (or if you don’t want to head all the way to Mount Etna, admire views of it from the Greek Theatre).

Where to Stay in Taormina

Hostel Taormina  — Boasting great reviews and a perfect location in Taormina’s Old Town, Hostel Taormina is the perfect place for budget travelers looking to keep costs down in what is arguably Sicily’s most expensive city.

Both private rooms and dorms are available, and a shared kitchen is located in the hostel.

The only downside? No parking options–so keep that in mind if you choose to book a stay here!

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Taormina!

Hotel Natalina  — We had a great time at this little hotel!

The location is a short walk from Taormina’s Old Town, the included breakfast quite large by Italian standards, and the customer service excellent. The staff helped us park our rental car for free nearby, which we greatly appreciated!

The rooms are large, but a bit dated–this certainly isn’t a luxury hotel, but it’s definitely a cozy enough place to stay while visiting Taormina, and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Natalina!

Hotel Continental  — Want to admire the sea views that Taormina is famous for from the comfort of your hotel, while also staying in the lap of luxury?

If so, the Hotel Continental is for you!

Known for its superb location in the heart of Taormina, its views, and its wonderful included breakfast, luxury travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Continental!

Syracuse: 2 Days

Packed with ancient ruins, beautiful churches, and a maze of quiet streets, Syracuse (or Siracusa) is second only to Taormina in tourism popularity for Sicily vacations.

For your 2 days in Syracuse, we recommend focusing primarily on the island of Ortigia (or Ortygia), which is a small island right off the coast of Sicily (and I do mean right off the coast–no ferry necessary) that is essentially Syracuse’s lovely old town.

What to Do in Syracuse

Check out castello maniace..

Located on the far edge of Ortigia, this citadel-slash-castle dates to the 13th century (an earlier castle on the site dated to the 11th) and boasts beautiful views over the Ionian Sea.

Stroll through the small streets of Ortigia.

Ortigia is a charming place, and we found that we loved it most when wandering the streets in search of coffee bars, churches (we stumbled across one with a festival going on inside!), and the island’s many ruins.

Be sure to make your way to the Piazza Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa during your wandering!

Marvel at the Temple of Apollo.

Of all the ancient ruins in Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo is considered the most important.

Dating to the 6th century BCE, the temple has served a whole host of functions over the centuries, including acting as a temple to both Apollo and Artemis, as a church (more than once), and as a mosque.

Syracuse Travel Tips

Stay in ortigia if you can..

This is essentially the old town of Syracuse and is set on an island nearby the main part of the modern city.

It’s beautiful, easy to get lost in, and delightfully fun to explore on foot, making it the perfect place to stay in Syracuse. 

The only catch is what to do with your car, which leads me to…

Choose where you park in advance.

Parking is severely restricted on the island of Ortigia, and on our Sicily road trip we ended up driving in circles for a bit trying to find the right place to leave our car.

Learn from our mistakes and plan carefully beforehand!

Consider visiting the Greek Theatre on your way into or out of Syracuse.

Syracuse’s Greek Theatre is one of its most popular attractions, however, it’s completely across town from Ortigia.

It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick sightseeing break as you arrive in or leave the city, though.

Where to Stay in Syracuse

Room Calafatari — Ortigia is peppered with dozens of small, simple apartments that are used as budget rentals, and Room Calafatari is both a great option and the perfect example of what to expect in Ortigia in a budget price range: no frills but a great location.

Check rates & book your stay at Room Calafatari!

Hotel Posta — With a fabulous location overlooking a port and within a short walk of many of Syracuse’s top attractions, Hotel Posta is a prime choice for mid-range travelers on their Sicily road trip.

Personally, we’d be tempted to upgrade to a room with a balcony–those views are just too good to pass up.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Posta!

Hotel Livingston — With excellent reviews, and included breakfast, and a prime location on the edge of Ortigia (most rooms include a sea view!), luxury travelers (or just those looking for a splurge) can’t go wrong with a stay at 4-star Hotel Livingston during their 10 day Sicily itinerary!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Livingston!

Val di Noto: 2 Days

Sicily’s Val di Noto is littered with stunning Baroque towns, rolling hills, lovely wine country, and some of the best chocolate in the world–in other words, it’s definitely a place that belongs on your 10 days in Sicily itinerary.

What to Do in the Val di Noto

Hop between the beautiful baroque towns..

Eight of the towns in the Val di Noto are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their incredible Baroque architecture: Ragusa, Modica, Noto, Scicli, Palazzo Acreide, Caltagirone, Militello in Val di Catania, and finally, Catania itself.

Obviously, that is a bit much to cover with just 2 days of your trip to Sicily.

We recommend prioritizing Ragusa, Noto, Modica, and if you have time, Scicli.

Admire views of Ragusa Ilba.

Beautiful Ragusa is divided into two sections: Ragusa Superiore (the upper town) and Ragusa Ilba (the lower town).

The views of Ragusa Ilba looking down from Ragusa Superiore may just be some of the best views in this entire Sicily itinerary, which is really saying something!

Snack on chocolate in Modica.

The beautiful town of Modica is world-famous for its chocolate, which boasts a recipe that originally hails from none other than the Aztecs.

The chocolate is created with “cold processing”, giving it a characteristic grainy texture, inconsistent color, and delicious taste.

Val di Noto Travel Tips

Choose where to stay carefully..

Think about your travel style when you choose where to stay in the Val di Noto: do you want to be the heart of the action? Do you want to be able to do plenty of sightseeing without driving? Would you prefer a countryside stay so that you can easily come and go without worrying about parking or driving through a town to do so?

Personally, we chose to stay in Ragusa for its relative popularity and central location and were very happy with the choice.

Don’t try to see more than 1-2 towns a day.

The Baroque towns of the Val di Noto may look very close together on a map, but add in small, winding roads, the hassles of finding a place to park and making your way (often uphill) to the picturesque town centers, and the delights of savoring each spot, and it’s definitely best to limit your movements when possible.

We recommend sticking to seeing 1-2 towns per day in this section of your Sicily road trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Val di Noto

For the sake of simplicity, we’ve outlined a few well-reviewed places to stay in Ragusa here, but staying somewhere like Modica or Noto will also easily work with this 10 day Sicily itinerary!

SanVito Hostel — With excellent reviews, a prime location in Ragusa near Piazza San Giovanni, an included breakfast, and a gorgeous terrace offering panoramic views of the Val di Noto, SanVito Hostel is a phenomenal option for budget travelers during their Sicily road trip.

Check rates & book your stay at SanVito Hostel!

Hotel Il Barocco — Cozy and comfortable, this small hotel is located in a 19th-century building in central Ragusa, making it the perfect launching pad for your sightseeing. With excellent reviews and a fabulous included breakfast, Hotel Il Barocco is a reliable choice in Ragusa for your Sicily vacation.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Il Barocco!

San Giorgio Palace — Located in the heart of Ragusa Ilba, popular San Giorgio Palace boasts very spacious rooms, as well as modern decor and amenities (including a very well-reviewed included breakfast) in a picture-perfect setting, with some rooms that overlook the valley.

Check rates & book your stay at San Giorgio Palace!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days in Sicily–or you just prefer an even more fast-paced Sicily road trip–there are plenty more incredible places to visit in Sicily to add to your list!

Here are a few more beautiful places to see in Sicily that you might want to add to your itinerary.

The ancient Valley of the Temples outside of Agrigento is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Sicily.

Once a thriving Ancient Greek city, these ruins are remarkably well-preserved and far less crowded than many better-known Greek ruins throughout Europe.

Located just outside of Palermo, Mondello is best known today for its long stretch of beach, which is one of the most popular places for beach days for both tourists and locals who are staying in Palermo.

This laid-back beach town is perfect for kicking back and enjoying long stretches of sandy beach–in fact, if you want a little more swimming to be included on your Sicily vacation beyond what’s outlined in this 10 day Sicily itinerary, you can even add a quick stop in Avola during your drive from Syracuse to the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto.

Aeolian Islands

Also sometimes called the Lipari Islands, this stunning volcanic island chain is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts some of the most magnificent sea views in all of Sicily (which is, as you can imagine, very high praise).

Located in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city and second airport hub–you’ll likely fly into and out of either Palermo or Catania (in fact, for this Sicily road trip itinerary it’s easiest to fly into Palermo and out of Catania if you can swing it).

Though Catania is far from Sicily’s most popular tourist attraction, it’s definitely worth a bit of exploring if you happen to be passing through!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Driving in Sicily truly deserves its own post, but here are some essential tips to know before embarking on your Sicily road trip!

Shop around for your rental car.

There are dozens of rental car companies operating in Sicily, all with their own prices and rental agreements. We recommend shopping through Discover Cars in order to search through multiple companies at once.

Not only will you be able to compare prices easily, but you’ll also be able to compare rental inclusions (like insurance, kilometers allotted, etc.), which we found varied dramatically among different rental car companies in Sicily!

Price Sicily rental cars with Discover Cars today!

The driving honestly isn’t as bad as it is portrayed… but it’s not easy.

There’s no way around it: driving in Sicily has a pretty terrible reputation.

However, ultimately, we walked away feeling that driving in Sicily was easier than expected–but we fully admit this impression is likely partially because of how nervous we were about doing it.

The major roads in Sicily are perfectly well maintained–smaller roads, not so much, so beware of potholes. City driving is the trickiest while traveling between cities on major highways is fairly simple.

Drivers can be a bit aggressive, yes, but we wouldn’t say they were drastically more aggressive than in, say, Tuscany.

As much as Sicily has a reputation for being its own world, particularly when it comes to driving, driving in Sicily felt pretty much like driving anywhere else in Italy (which is, admittedly, a harder place to drive than some).

Bear in mind that we are coming at this from the perspective of people who drove daily for nearly a decade and have road-tripped through many countries, including Italy, before. You do need to be a confident, well-practiced driver to comfortably drive in Sicily.

Taking a Sicily road trip if driving makes you anxious, you’re out of practice, you don’t like to drive, or you’ve never driven outside your home country is likely not the best idea.

Also–this is not the place to learn to drive a manual. Unless you are very confident with one, we recommend paying extra for an automatic transmission.

… But be sure you have insurance (preferably with no deductible/excess).

We didn’t incur any damage to our rental car in Sicily… but when we dropped it off, both rentals parked on either side of us had huge dents in them!

Due to the aggressive driving, small roads, and distances covered on this Sicily road trip, we’d recommend purchasing insurance with no deductible/excess for the time it takes you to work through this 10 day Sicily itinerary–it’s simply one less thing to worry about on the road.

Rent the smallest car you can manage.

Tiny roads. Cramped historic centers. Parking lots where cars are parked a mere inch apart (and the lines denoting where the parking places should be seen as mere suggestions at best–people park over them regularly).

Truly, renting a big car in Sicily is a liability, not a benefit. 

We recommend renting the tiniest car you can squeeze your group + luggage into. If the rental desk suggests an upgrade? Turn it down.

Carry lots of coins.

You will pay tolls when driving in Sicily, especially in northern half of the island, so come prepared with a cupholder full of Euros.

Don’t underestimate the time it takes to drive between destinations.

There were days that we pulled into our hotel’s parking space exactly when Google Maps said that we would–and days (like the day we had to catch a flight) that we ended up way behind schedule due to road work and an unfortunate accident that we got stuck behind.

Definitely leave yourself plenty of extra time on days that you have somewhere to be at a specific time!

July and August are peak tourism season in Sicily, and while the beaches will be warm and the sun shining, it’s best to avoid taking your Sicily road trip during those months if you hope to avoid peak crowds and prices.

Luckily, Sicily is characterized by its brilliant weather that allows for swimming over nearly half the year! 

Personally, we’d recommend aiming for a September or early October trip to Sicily if you hope to swim your heart out, and a late April or May trip if you want to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds while still thawing out after a long winter.

Over the winter, lots of small, tourist-focused businesses close and the island, especially in smaller towns, quiets down significantly–but if a slow-paced, off-season 10 days in Sicily itinerary sounds right up your alley, you’ll certainly find plenty of peaceful spots to savor.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Sicily road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing  for trips to Italy.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your Sicily road trip. Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy with World Nomads that covers car rental (only some of theirs do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: in Sicily, it’s worth the peace of mine.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car in Sicily, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before coming to Italy. It is required for all car rentals in Italy, and while the rental company may not ask, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. 

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary”

From someone who has family and typically visits for +30 days every other year, you did a very nice job with the article….many, many other wonder ful places to see and things to experience on the island, and the Eolian, and Egadi…..

Thanks Anthony! We can’t wait to make it back and explore more of Sicily.

Oh waooo Its amazing to know these valuable Information provided by you. Next month we have plan to visit Sicily and these information will be very helpfull. Thank you

Happy to hear that, Josef! Hope you guys have a great time in Sicily. 🙂

Wow! That was a very helpful article! I am bookmarking it multiple places so I don’t lose it before our trip in June. Thank you so much for your great tips and very practical advice.

Thanks, Vrinda! Hope you guys have a blast in Sicily!

Quiet a lot of information . One question if not interested in driving then the other options .

You definitely can visit Sicily without a car, but it’s a bit trickier than up on the mainland where there’s more train service.

Essentially, without a car your options are to stick with one town or city as a base and use guided tours to visit more rural areas, cobble together an itinerary with train and bus service (doable, but not as simple as in, say, Florence), or sign up for a full multi-day guided tour of Sicily.

Personally the first option falls most in line with how we tend to travel. Taormina is one of the most popular bases for a trip like that, as many cruise ships stop there and there are lots of options for guided tours to Mount Etna, wine country, etc.

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A Detailed Sicily Itinerary: 7-Day Road Trip

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

So you have a week in Sicily – that’s perfect for a road trip! I spent a few weeks on the island on two separate occasions – once for a girls’ trip focused on Sicilian wine & food pairings ( and what makes the Sicilians live forever ), and another time for a solo road trip around the island, traveling a bit more slowly.

This 7-day Sicily Itinerary is no ordinary basic-ass plan . It’s pretty detailed and has my best advice on an optimized road trip route , Sicilian foods to try , and my favorite towns to prioritize for the week (including what to do each day, where to park, and cute places to stay in the best parts of each town).

High level, my Sicily itinerary focuses on the north and east coast of the island , where I think all the action is, and the prettiest towns can be found. You can start either in Catania (east coast) or Palermo (north coast), and tweak the route accordingly.

✔️ Day 1: Fly to Palermo & Explore, Night Out ✔️ Day 2: Trip to Erice, Scopello Beaches & Sicilian Cooking Class ✔️ Day 3: Lazy Beach Day in Cefalu, the cutest coastal town ✔️ Day 4: Explore Taormina, the Pearl of Sicily ✔️ Day 5: Sunbathe on Isola Bella & Wine Tasting around Mount Etna ✔️ Day 6: History of Siracusa & Night Out in Isola Ortigia ✔️ Day 7: Fly Home (from Catania or Palermo)

My favorite thing about the island is that while it’s popular, you will mostly see Italian & European tourists because Sicily is still a bit of an undiscovered gem for the rest of the world. And I get why – it has to compete with the rest of iconic Italy, the Amalfi Coast , the Dolomites , Milan , Rome, Tuscany , and Cinque Terre to name a few.

👉  PRO TIP: I included what you could add to the trip if you had more than 7 days in Sicily towards the bottom (my favorite being the towns of Trapani, Noto, and the island of Favignana).

Table of Contents

Sicily Itinerary: 7 Days in Sicily

Sicily is like a melting pot of different vibes thanks to its mix of conquerors (African, Roman, Moorish, Christians) over the years, giving it this cool blend that you can see in its architecture, food, and traditions. It’s famous for its beautiful coastline, an active volcano called Mt.Etna (where vineyards thrive), idyllic coastal towns, and amazing food like arancini and cannoli.

This 7-day Sicily itinerary focuses on chic places to stay, eat, and have sunset drinks at, adds a sprinkle of history & culture, and makes sure to include the iconic spots that make Sicily famous. It is NOT a checklist-packed itinerary that gives you 2-3 hours in a place before moving on.

Day 1: Explore Palermo

• Morning Arrive in Palermo & rent a car
• Afternoon Highlights Tour of Palermo (tickets & tour of the 2 most iconic things to see in Palermo, Palazzo Dei Normanni and Cappella Palatina
• Dinner at Osteria Villena (great bar & atmosphere) or Osteria Nonna Dora

Palermo, Sicily’s capital, is going to attack all your senses. It’s loud, graffitied, and artsy, giving both modern & history vibes, all the food is tasty, and people are out and about at night in full force. That’s the beautiful chaos of Palermo.

I liked walking around the lively street markets like Vucciria and Ballarò (especially at night) and visiting the Palazzo dei Normanni on the tour. I also thought the architecture was super pretty, having been influenced by Arabs, Normans, and Byzantines – pay attention to the famous Cappella Palatina’s mosaics for a little taste.

For dinner, make sure to order some of the iconic dishes like panelle (chickpea fritters) and caponata (eggplant dish). Sicily has a rich food heritage, and Palermo is a great place to start tasting all the goodies. For all these reasons, and the fact that Palermo has a big airport, it’s a great place to start your trip.

Best Places to Stay in Palermo [2 nights]

📍 Luxury : Archè Design Rooms and Suites – Amazing staff, and great natural light to the rooms. Modern, beautiful clean, and does not break the bank! 📍 Mid-Range: Casta Diva Luxury Apartments – lots of apartments like this (and at this price range) in Palermo. I like the location of this one, and how wonderful the host is – helps when you’re new in town!

Day 2: Erice, Beaches, & Sicilian Food

• Half-day trip to Erice , a cute little historic town (1.5 hrs from Palermo)
• Afternoon on Sicilian Beach – San Vito lo Capo and/or Cala Mazzo di Sciacca
• Sicilian Cooking Class & Dinner (Late Class starts at 5 pm)

The northwest coast of Sicily is more than just Palermo, and so I would take your rental and hightail it to the countryside. I spent a morning and lunch in Erice, about a 1.5-hour drive west of Palermo on SS187 road ( park here ). I did a little walk around the town walls and had lunch in the old town. It’s not a big town, but I think it’s one of the more beautiful and preserved towns in Sicily.

After lunch, on my way back, I stopped at this little beach (the parking is paid – about €10 – so have some cash on you). Highly recommend a little swim and bringing water shoes if you have them. The views here are wonderful! San Vito lo Capo is also a great popular choice, I just preferred the beaches near Scopello better.

The late afternoon is dedicated to learning about Sicilian food and how important a role it plays in the culture and lifestyle of its people. I love a good cooking class , and doing things with my hands, so this was a perfect way to end the day. Plus, dinner is included. Night on the town after since it’s the last night in Palermo!

Day 3: Relax in Cefalu

• Morning drive from Palermo to Cefalu (1hr)
• Explore Cefalu (Duomo di Cefalu, cobbled streets, sunbathing & shopping)
• Sunset Mini-Catamaran of Cefalu coastline
• Dinner at Brama Restaurant

The drive from Palermo to Cefalu is about 1 hour, and I like to stay the night because it’s another iconic example of Sicilian life – a small fisherman village, family-style food, and pretty views of the Mediterranean. Plus it’s on the way to Taormina, and a nice way to break up the road trip.

I would start your day by exploring the Duomo di Cefalù , a Norman cathedral famous for its impressive mosaics – it’s the main church in town. Afterward, I just walked around, did a little window shopping, strolled down the lungomare, and landed on the beach, as one does.

PRO TIP: Don’t miss a climb up La Rocca , a massive crag offering panoramic views of Cefalù and the sea – it’s a bit of a hike, but the views are worth it.

In the afternoon, book a tiny catamaran and see the sunset from the boat . Cap off your day with some fresh seafood at a local trattoria – recommend Sarde a Beccafico if you can find it on the menu.

Best Places to Stay in Cefalu [1 night]

📍 Luxury – Hotel La Plumeria – all the suites have balconies, a 2-minute walk from Cefalu Beach, and this property is so pretty!! 📍 Mid-Range – Mandralisca Garden – just a few steps from the beach, and the property has a cute bike rental you can take advantage of.

Day 4: Enjoy The Views in Taormina

• Morning drive from Cefalu to Taormina (2.5 hrs)
• Afternoon explore Old Town Taormina
• Sunset at the Ancient Greek Amphitheater
• Dinner at Osteria da Rita (dal 1991)

Taormina is one of my favorite towns in Sicily, so much so, I go every time I’m on the island. It’s known as the Pearl of Sicily and holy shit, it’s so darn pretty!

It’s a 2.5-hour drive from Cefalu to Taormina , so you’ll likely make it there by lunch. Parking in Taormina can be tough, so I recommend parking outside of the town at any parking garage, and walking to your hotel. The town is not big, so it’s not that bad.

In the afternoon, wander down Corso Umberto , the main street lined with shops and cafes, perfect for enjoying a cannoli or picking up little Sicilian crafts. Don’t miss the chance to visit the tranquil gardens of Villa Comunale . It’s a peaceful escape inside the town with lush greenery and super pretty views.

PRO TIP: Right before sunset, get tickets and head to the Ancient Greek Amphitheater – I think the best views are while the sun is going down over the stunning backdrop of Mount Etna and the sea.

Best Places to Stay in Taormina [2 nights]

📍 Luxury: Hotel Vila Paradiso – This is where I stayed with my girlfriends, and the balcony views alone were worth the little extra. While there are lots of great spots in Taormina, this one had a great mix of coziness & luxury. We loved it! 📍 Mid Range: Hotel Continental – Great value for your money, fantastic breakfast and the terrace also has some beautiful views. Taormina really shines when you can see the sea & Mt. Etna!

Day 5: Climb Mount Etna

• Morning Hike on Mount Etna
• Lunch around Etna at Gambino Vini (for Sicilian wine tasting)
• Afternoon sunbathing on Isola Bella
• Dinner at Vineria Modi

Today is about getting to know Mount Etna with a little hike and vineyard visit. Because of the rich soil around a volcano, you’re going to get some pretty unique natural wines. I will say, not all natural wines are love at first taste, but judge for yourself.

In the morning, I recommend a nice hike – Easy Hike (1hr) and/or Moderate Hike (2.5 hrs), plus a trip to Gole Alcantara (1.5 hr thing). Around lunch, I recommend Gambino Vini for their wine tasting and snacks (which is enough for lunch).

For some afternoon sun, head back to Taormina and take the cable car down to Isola Bella , a small island connected to the mainland by a thin strip of beach, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the pebble beach. I brought my own beach towel and water shoes, and snuck wine from the vineyard in my water bottle – priorities !

Day 6: A Day in Siracusa

• Morning Drive from Taormina to Siracusa (1.5 hrs)
• Afternoon Walking Tour Of Old Town Ortigia
• Dinner & drinks in Isola Ortigia

It’s a quick drive from Taormina to Siracusa. To be quite honest, the best part of the big city of Siracusa is the tiny island of Ortigia. I stayed longer in Ortigia because it’s a great home base for exploring the southeast of Sicily , and the lodging on this little island is fantastic!

Ortigia is connected to the mainland by a tiny ass bridge, and parking is again a beast.

PRO TIP: Park here on Isola Ortigia, pay with the EasyPark app , and explore on foot for the rest of the day. Do not give random people cash for parking – that’s a scam!

Ortigia is a packed little island full of pretty streets and everyone trying to feed you – it’s the love language of Italy. I loved the walking tour and then being able to explore on my own at night. I did feel like I needed to be a bit more dressed up in Ortigia at night, so pack a cute date night outfit because the Italians are fancier here! 😊

Best Places to Stay in Isola Ortigia [1 night]

📍 Luxury – La Maison : like staying in a little Grand Hotel, the rooms are elegant, comfortable, and spacious. Breakfast out on the terrace is so nice. I recommend the rooms with the balcony! 📍 Mid-Range – xenìa : fantastic location and the rooms are so full of natural light, the breakfast is wonderful, and the outdoor seating is an added perk for people-watching!

Day 7: Fly Home

Today is your travel day. You can drive one hour from Siracusa to Catania Airport and fly home. Or you can drive 3.5 hours back to Palermo Airport, drop off the car, and fly home.

I always think it’s cheaper and more practical to fly in and out of the same airport, as well as rent a car and return it to the same place. Plus, I’m from Texas and don’t think a 3.5-hour drive through the island is a big deal.

How many days should I spend in Sicily?

Always a fan of maximizing my time while keeping in touch with my slow travel philosophy, I recommend a minimum of 7 days in Sicily.

Having been to the island a few times, I personally recommend 10-14 days if you can swing it. There is absolutely enough to see and do in Sicily, the food & wine are their own subset of Sicilian tourism, and the island is bigger than it looks.

7 Days: Best for Sicilian Highlights

A week in Sicily is enough to see the highlights, spending 2 days in Palermo, 1 day in Cefalu, 2 days in Taormina, and 2 days in Siracusa. It’s a quick-hitter itinerary, best done as a road trip, and with a glass of wine in hand.

• 7 Days in Sicily Starting in Palermo: Palermo – Erice- Cefalu – Taormina – Isola Bella – Mount Etna – Siracusa – Isola Ortigia – Palermo
• 7 Days in Sicily Starting in Catania: Catania – Taormina – Isola Bella – Mount Etna – Cefalu – Palermo – Erice – Siracusa – Isola Ortigia – Catania

This route will have you climb an active volcano (Mount Etna), see the cutest little fisherman town (Cefalu), visit the Pearl of Sicily (Taormina), dive into the history of the island (Palermo & Siracusa), and eat & drink your way through the north & east coast of Sicily.

10 Days: Add Some Local Towns & Islands

With a few more days in Sicily, you can add little gem islands like Favignana and a few more towns around the southeast – famous for their wine production and deep roots in mafia & history ( not even making that up, where do you think the Sicilian mafia comes from!? )

• 10 Days in Sicily Starting in Palermo : Palermo – Eze – Isola Favignana – Cefalu – Taormina – Isola Bella – Mount Etna – Siracusa – Isola Ortigia – Noto – Palermo
• 10 Days in Sicily Starting in Catania: Catania – Siracusa – Isola Ortigia – Noto – Trapani – Isola Favignana – Eze – Palermo – Cefalu – Taormina – Isola Bella – Mount Etna – Catania

14 Days: Now You’re Really Circling the Island!

With 2 weeks in Sicily, you can slow down, spend a couple of nights in the bigger cities, and explore some of the local islands around Sicily. You have time to take in the culture – do a cooking class, waste a day learning about Sicilian Wines. At this point, it doesn’t matter where you land, you can circle the island – not a lot going in the center anyway.

• Route : Palermo – Eze – Isola Favignana – Cefalu – Taormina – Isola Bella – Mount Etna (wine) – Isola Lipari (wine) – Catania – Siracusa – Isola Ortigia – Noto (wine) – Modica – Ragusa – Agrigento – Palermo

Getting To Sicily

Getting to Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is pretty straightforward, thanks to its well-connected transportation system. Here are the best ways to get there:

Sicily is served by several airports, with the busiest being Catania-Fontanarossa (CTA) and Palermo International Airport (PMO) . There’s also Trapani-Birgi (TPS) in the west and Comiso Airport (CIY) in the southeast, offering both domestic and international flights.

A bunch of airlines, including low-cost carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet, offer direct flights from major European cities.

⛴️ By Ferry

Regular ferries connect Sicily with various Italian ports, including Naples, Genoa, and Civitavecchia (near Rome), as well as the closer ones like Reggio Calabria and Villa San Giovanni on the tip of Italy’s boot.

I once drove onto Sicily from Villa San Giovanni ferry port – it was a 20-minute ride, super easy!

There are also ferry services to and from smaller islands like the Aeolian Islands (Liparia), Ustica, and the Aegadian Islands (Favignana), making island-hopping around Sicily accessible. The key is finding the port , which is as simple as searching Google Maps.

I know it sounds crazy, but trains run directly from mainland Italy to Sicily, crossing the Strait of Messina via ferry at Villa San Giovanni – the train itself is loaded onto the ferry for this unique leg of the journey.

Trenitalia operates routes from major Italian cities like Rome, Naples, and Milan to Sicilian destinations such as Palermo, Catania, and Syracuse. Traveling by train is kindof neat because it gives you a scenic approach to the island, allowing you to enjoy the Italian countryside before arriving in Sicily.

🚗 By Car + Ferry

This is a driving/ferry combination option, and one I did before. If you’re coming from mainland Italy, you can drive to one of the ports mentioned (Reggio Calabria, Villa San Giovanni ) and take a ferry across to Messina.

I like this option because you can take a road trip from mainland Italy to Sicily. Plus, renting a car on the mainland can be cheaper.

Choosing the Best Way To Get to Sicily

Each mode of transportation offers a different experience, so it’s up to you to choose based on convenience, budget, and the type of travel you prefer.

✅ Consider Your Starting Point: Direct flights are most convenient for international travelers, while ferries or trains might be better for those already in Italy or nearby.

✅ Think About Your Sicily Itinerary: Decide which part of the island you want to explore first. For example, landing in Palermo is ideal for the western parts, while Catania is a better gateway for the southeast and Mount Etna.

✅ Budget and Experience: Consider both the cost and the experience you’re looking for. Ferries and trains offer a more scenic and potentially enjoyable journey, while flying might be quicker and, in some cases, cheaper.

Renting A Car In Sicily

When you get to Sicily, I highly recommend renting a car as public transportation is not all that reliable. It’s there, just not on time in my experience. Plus, a lot of my recommendations are a bit off the beaten path .

➡️ I recommend DISCOVER CARS for checking prices in Sicily – it’s what I use ! ⬅️

I recommend a small car , and getting the insurance that comes along with the car, considering the driving style and road conditions in Sicily.

All in all, driving in Sicily is awesome. Just be aware and review the local driving norms below and a few unique road rules to be set and ready to go.

Driving In Sicily

I liked driving in Sicily, but there are some quirks that I feel are only true for South Italy drivers.

While major highways ( autostrade ) and roads are generally in good condition and have 2 lanes going in each direction, secondary and rural roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes poorly maintained – potholes, construction with little signage, etc. Cities like Palermo and Catania are known for their congested traffic and crappy parking.

Navigating the narrow streets of historic towns can be tricky , so my best recommendation is to find a parking garage near where you are staying and park it for the day.

PRO TIP: I’ve included where to park at each stage of the itinerary. I also used the Easy Park app to pay in Sicily – don’t give people cash at the parking garages, that’s a scam.

Sicilian drivers will seem aggressive compared to what you’re used to, but I adjusted to my defensive driving self and was just fine. You can expect quick lane changes, little signaling, grandpas driving in the middle of both lanes and a bit of tailgating. Oh, and a lot of scooters sharing the road – little buggers are everywhere and come out of nowhere.

PRO TIP: Using your horn is common as a signal to other drivers, especially in crowded or narrow streets. Locals also flash their headlights to indicate they are coming through or to warn you of their presence. Basically, Sicilians will make themselves be heard and seen on the road.

Sicily Road Rules

Here are a few things I learned the hard way, meaning I got 2 parking tickets in Sicily because I didn’t pay attention to the signs.

• Speed Limits: Speed limits are generally 130 km/h on autostrade (freeways), 90-110 km/h on main roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas unless otherwise posted. There are few cops around, but there are speed cameras. And your car rental company will find you and charge you.
• ZTL Zones: Many historic city centers have “Zona Traffico Limitato” (ZTL) areas, where access is restricted to non-resident vehicles at certain times. Be mindful of these zones to avoid fines, especially in Taormina and Isola Ortigia.
• Street Parking: White lines indicate free parking, blue lines denote paid parking, and yellow lines are reserved or restricted. Pay attention to signs and payment machines.

3 Best Things To Do & See In Sicily

Beyond the highlights of what to see and do in Sicily, there are a few things that I think need special attention if you really want to experience the heart of Sicily.

👉 Did You Know that Sicily is one of those islands in the world where people live forever (or at least till a healthy 100?!) I found the answer in their diet, and their culture, and observing how absolutely slow & chill things are on the island.

1. Learn About Sicilian Food & Wine

I highly recommend finding a cooking class you can take in Sicily – I have done a couple of them, both in Palermo and Taormina and had the most fun.

➡️ Loved this Sicilian Cooking Class in Palermo ⬅️

Here are a few must-try dishes and desserts for when you’re out and about in the towns:

• Arancini: These are crispy, golden rice balls filled with ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, and peas, a staple of Sicilian street food.
• Caponata: A sweet and sour eggplant dish, often including capers, olives, and celery, showcasing Sicily’s Arab influences.
• Pasta alla Norma: Named after Bellini’s opera, this pasta is about fried eggplant, ricotta salata cheese, tomato sauce, and basil.
• Panelle: Chickpea fritters, often served in a sandwich, are a popular street food in Palermo.
• Sarde a Beccafico: Sardines stuffed with breadcrumbs, pine nuts, and raisins, then rolled and baked, reflecting Sicily’s love for fish with a sweet and savory twist. OMG!
• Cannoli: Perhaps the most iconic Sicilian dessert, these crispy pastry shells are filled with sweet, creamy ricotta and dotted with pistachios or chocolate chips.
• Cassata Siciliana: A traditional sponge cake moistened with fruit juices and layered with ricotta cheese, covered in a shell of marzipan, and decorated with candied fruits and icing.
• Granita: A semi-frozen dessert that comes in various flavors like lemon, almond, and coffee, often enjoyed with a brioche bun for breakfast in the summer. My favorite was the coffee flavor because it reminded me of a slushy coffee.

2. Explore The Islands Around Sicily

Sicily is surrounded by a bunch of little islands, each with its own flare. The best little islands around Sicily, including what makes them special, are as follows (according to me):

☀️ Favignana: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and Cala Rossa, Favignana is great for snorkeling and swimming. I rented a bike at the pier and did a little bike tour (that’s how small it is) and beach hopped.

☀️ Lipari: The largest of the Aeolian Islands, known for its archaeological sites and the Museo Archeologico Regionale Eoliano. Its thermal springs and beautiful beaches also make it a popular spot. I also enjoyed the vineyards here!

☀️ Lampedusa: Famous for its Rabbit Beach (Spiaggia dei Conigli), regularly ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. The island is a paradise for beach lovers and offers opportunities for spotting sea turtles and dolphins.

☀️ Linosa: A volcanic island known for its dramatic landscapes, black sand beaches, and rich marine life, making it perfect for diving and snorkeling.

PRO TIP: You can easily grab a ferry to each of these islands from the nearest Sicilian town in the morning for a day trip .

Every little island provides a unique slice of Sicilian life, and I feel like it’s a more authentic Sicily because not many tourists venture out to these little pieces of earth.

3. Climb Mount Etna – An Active Volcano

Mount Etna, towering over the eastern part of Sicily, is Europe’s highest and most active volcano, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is not only a symbol of Sicily but also a mountain that begs to be explored. And if there’s a mountain, it must be climbed!

To visit Mount Etna, drive to Rifugio Sapienza or Piano Provenzana, the two main starting points for hikes and adventure stuff. From there, you can hike along the trails, take a cable car, or ride in 4×4 vehicles to reach higher altitudes near the summit craters.

HIKING TIP: Try this Easy Hike (1hr) and/or this Moderate Hike (2.5 hrs) around Etna. Download the AllTrails App and track your hike!

The fertile volcanic soil of Etna’s slopes is also home to vineyards producing some of Sicily’s most famous wines. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, teaching you about the unique flavors influenced by the volcano.

Planning Tips For A Week in Sicily

Planning a week-long road trip in Sicily can be an unforgettable adventure, but there’s some stuff to be wary of. Here are some tips to ensure your journey is smooth and enjoyable:

✅ Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a small to medium-sized car for easier navigation through narrow streets and parking. The car rental company will want to give you a big SUV, but that would be a mistake .

✅ Insurance: Get comprehensive car rental insurance for peace of mind. Sicilian roads can be challenging, and drivers are a tad aggressive.

✅ International Driving Permit: Along with your valid driver’s license, an International Driving Permit is often required for non-EU residents.

✅ Driving Caution: Be prepared for a more aggressive driving style than you might be used to. I thought it was fun, easy, and exciting to drive in Sicily, especially so you can get off the beaten path.

✅ ZTL Zones: Pay attention to Zona Traffico Limitato (traffic limited zones) in city centers to avoid fines.

✅ Pack Comfy: Bring lightweight clothing for the day and something warmer for cooler evenings, good walking shoes, sunscreen, and a pair of sunnies.

✅ Meal Times: Sicilians typically eat lunch around 1-3 PM and dinner from 8 PM onwards. Many restaurants close between these meal times, so plan accordingly.

✅ Siesta Time: Especially in smaller towns, shops will close in the afternoon for a few hours during the hottest part of the day (usually from 1-4 PM).

✅ Local Legends: Sicily has a rich culture and history. Show interest in local traditions and norms, and ask for local legend stories – especially about the potted plants in the head of a man and woman!

A week in Sicily can fly by quickly, so it’s important to balance your itinerary between seeing the sights and taking the time to relax and soak in the island’s beauty and culture.

Ideal Time to Visit Sicily

The best time to visit Sicily is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) . I have been in the summertime as well, and I remember thinking how hot it was – and I’m from Texas ! Of course, I adjusted by spending most of my time on the beaches around the coastline, so it was still great.

Here’s what to expect of Sicily weather for every season:

🌸 Spring (April to June)

This is when I usually opt to go to Sicily, especially to start off the travel season in late April!

• Weather: The weather is comfortably warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (18°C to 28°C). The countryside is also in full bloom.
• Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in the peak summer months.
• Events: Spring is a time for colorful festivals, including Easter celebrations, which are a big deal in Sicily with processions and festivities. There is also the Infiorata di Noto in May, where the streets are covered in intricate flower petal designs.

🍁 Autumn (September to October)

Close of the season, if you’re still looking for sun without massive amounts of tourists, this is the island for you if you’re not headed to one of the Spanish Islands (my favorite being Mallorca in September ).

• Weather: Similar to spring, autumn brings warm days and cooler evenings, with temperatures ranging from the high 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (20°C to 24°C). The sea is still warm enough for swimming, especially in early autumn.
• Crowds: As the summer vacation period winds down, the number of tourists decreases, giving you space for a more authentic experience of Sicilian life.
• Events: Autumn is harvest season, making it a fantastic time for food and wine lovers. Various festivals celebrate local produce, including grapes, olives, and mushrooms.

☀️ Summer (July and August)

I know most people advise against it, but I’ve been to Sicily in the hot-ass month of July, and it wasn’t that bad. I would absolutely stay close to the sea so you can dip your toes in, but for a Texas girl, the weather was just fine in the 90s!

• Weather : Sicily gets very hot, with temperatures often soaring above 90°F (32°C)
• Crowds : It’s the peak tourist season, meaning crowded beaches and attractions. However, it’s the best time for a beach holiday.

❄️ Winter (November to March)

The bottom line is maybe avoid winter in Sicily . All other months are fair game!

• Weather : Winters are mild. But chilly. 40s and 50s Fahrenheit.
• NOTE : Some attractions will have reduced hours or shut down in winter, and smaller islands will be less accessible.

Final Thoughts: 7-Day Sicily Itinerary

All in all, I adore Sicily, and while this one-week Sicily itinerary is a bit of all the highlights on the island, I absolutely recommend staying at least 10-14 days if you can swing it.

The best way to explore Sicily is via road trip , going around the island, either starting in Palermo on the north coast or Catania on the east coast.

My recommended 7-day Sicily itinerary route will have you climb an active volcano (Mount Etna), see the cutest little fisherman town (Cefalu), visit the Pearl of Sicily (Taormina), dive into the history of the island (Palermo & Siracusa), and eat & drink your way through the north & east coast of Sicily is as follows:

7 Days in Sicily Starting in Palermo:

• Palermo (2 nights)
• Cefalu (1 night)
• Taormina (2 nights)
• Siracusa (1 night) – extend here if you have more time!

So what are you waiting for?! Get your ass in gear and book a ticket to Sicily.

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Things to Do in Sicily

Things to Do in Palermo

Best Beaches

Things to Do Near Mt. Etna

Guide to Valley of the Temples

Food to Try

Best Wineries

Your Trip to Sicily: The Complete Guide

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

The island of Sicily is best known as the home of Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. However, it's also famous for its well-preserved Greek and Roman archaeological sites, Baroque architecture, vibrant cities, wild Mediterranean beaches, fascinating mix of cultures, and diverse cuisine. While many visitors to Italy tack on a few days in Sicily as part of a larger vacation, there's more than enough to see on this 9,653-square-mile (25,000-square-kilometer) island to merit a longer visit. Or even making Sicily the main focus of your Italy vacation. Read on for your complete planning guide to the largest island in the Mediterranean.

Planning Your Trip to Sicily

Best Time to Visit:  When you decide to visit Sicily depends on what you want to do while you're there. If it's beaches you seek, July and August are peak season, though you can also sun and swim in June and into early September, when it's less hot and crowded. Otherwise, late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit Sicily for mild temperatures and thinner crowds.

Language:  Italian is the primary language spoken in Sicily, though it's heavily influenced by regional dialects. Italian spoken here incorporates words and pronunciations from Sicilian, the native language of the island. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and stores in touristy cities and towns, but is less common in rural and inland areas.

Currency:  As with the rest of Italy, Sicily uses the euro. Other currencies are not accepted. Credit cards are widely accepted, though some merchants may prefer cash for smaller purchases. American Express is not as widely accepted in Italy as it is in the U.S., so be sure to have a backup card or cash at the ready.

Getting Around in Sicily:  Sicily is covered by a network of train and bus lines that reach most parts of the island. Trenitalia , Italy's national rail company, offers service between Sicily's major cities, secondary cities, and some smaller towns. However, it's worth noting that connections to smaller destinations can be infrequent and involve long wait times.

Buses also connect smaller coastal and interior towns, but service is sporadic and schedules are often complicated to figure out. Ferries not only connect Sicily to the mainland but also to the Aeolian and Aegadian islands, as well as the Pelagic islands of Lampedusa, Pantelleria, and Linosa. Ferries run more frequently in the summer months.

Many travelers to Sicily opt to rent a car in order to visit the interior and move about more freely without worrying about train or bus schedules and wait times.

Travel Tip:  Unless you have a week or more to spend in Sicily, we recommend basing yourself in one section of the island and exploring just area. There are more than 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) of coastline in Sicily and there are only a few direct roads or train routes that cut through the island's center. This means that it can be very time-consuming to visit more than one region in a short trip. Save the rest of the island for when you have more time to enjoy it.

There are a lot of reasons to visit Sicily. Primary among them are historic cities, ancient archaeological sites, beaches, and nature—especially around Mount Etna. Here's a closer look at some of the highlights:

• Historic Cities: Palermo is Sicily's capital city , and offers Arab and Norman history alongside bustling markets overflowing with street food. The city Catania has Greek and Roman ruins and a Baroque center while the cities of the Val di Noto are known for their Sicilian Baroque architecture. Syracuse, Taormina, Trapani, and Cefalu are seaside cities and some beautiful beaches as well as notable ancient ruins.
• Ancient Archaeology: The Valley of the Temples at Agrigento is one of the world's best-preserved Greek archaeological sites. Other important sites are located in Selinunte, Segesta, Taormina, Syracuse/Ortigia, and Messina. The stunning Villa Romana del Casale at Piazza Armerina preserves the remains of a vast Roman villa decorated with spectacular mosaics.
• Beaches: The sand on Sicily's beaches ranges from black and volcanic to sugary and white, to no sand at all. (There are many beaches are formed of smooth pebbles that are hard on naked feet, so tread carefully!). While the sands vary widely, what all the beaches share is incredibly blue, clear seawater that's perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Look to Taormina, Trapani, San Vito Lo Capo and Cefalu, and the southeastern coast for . Sicily's islands offer dramatic, rocky coastlines interrupted by sandy coves or wide, crescent-shaped beaches.
• Nature: Mount Etna is the geological star of Sicily and for many visitors, a hike or jeep ride on the active volcano is a must-do experience. To the northwest, the Zingaro Nature Reserve offers unspoiled coastline and Mediterranean woods and scrubs, plus some of Sicily's best beaches. The Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans Nature Reserve is a World Wildlife Foundation reserve for migrating birds.

Get more ideas for your trip itinerary with our articles on the top things to do in Sicily , the best beaches in Sicily , and the top things to do around Mount Etna

What to Eat and Drink

Throughout the millennia, Sicily has been influenced by cultures from across the Mediterranean. Those influences are still felt today in its cuisine, which is a mix of Italian, North African, Arab, and Spanish cuisine—much of it based on the bounty of the sea. Fried street food is big in Sicilian cities and can be found at one of the many markets. In coastal restaurants, heaping mounds of couscous or pasta studded with seafood appear on menus. Meanwhile, eggplant-based caponata and eggplant parmesan are staples further inland. Desserts range from light, refreshing granitas to sweet, dense favorites like cannoli and cassata.

Sicilian wine, once dismissed as regional swill, enjoyed a rebirth starting several decades ago, and the island is now home to many noteworthy varietals. Many wineries are clustered in the mineral-rich soils on the slopes of Mount Etna, from where Etna Bianco and Etna Rosso wines originate. Red Nero d'Avola grapes produce hearty table wines, while Marsala, passito, and moscato are enduring dessert wines. Learn more about the best wineries in Sicily , the best foods to try in Sicily with our longer articles.

Where to Stay in Sicily

Across Sicily, accommodation options run the gamut, from luxurious five-star hotels to functional three-star beachfront properties that don't have to try very hard to sell out their rooms. There are campgrounds, glamping options, and cottage rentals near the shore. Inland, agriturismos offer farmstays that range from rustic to deluxe, and that usually feature food grown on-property. You'll also find "vacation villages" in Sicily, Usually near a popular beach, these are large compounds that offer accommodations, restaurants, pools, and activities. Many offer all-inclusive services but book early if you want to stay in one during the peak summer season.

Wherever you stay in Sicily, if you're there from May to October, take our advice and book a room with air-conditioning. Summer temperatures are sweltering, and air conditioning isn't always a given.

Read more about your lodging options with our guide to the best hotels in Sicily.

Getting There

Sicily can be reached via airplane or ferry. Its major airports are at Catania and Palermo, with smaller airports at Trapani and Comiso. Frequent ferries make the quick trip across the Strait of Messina from Villa San Giovanni on the mainland to Messina. Other mainland ports include Rome-Civitavecchia, Naples, Salerno, Reggio-Calabria and, more seasonally, Livorno and Genoa. Note that not all ferries accept vehicles, so check ahead if you plan to bring a rental car onto the island.

Trains from the mainland also arrive at Messina and continue on to Palermo, Catania, and Siracusa, with stops along the way. Note that if you book a through-train from the mainland, the train cars will be loaded onto a ferry at Messina for crossing the Strait of Messina.

Culture and Customs of Sicily 

Visitors to Sicily may find the population more reserved and conservative compared to mainland Italy, especially once you're out of large cities. Despite this, greeting Sicilians with a friendly "buongiorno" will go a long way toward breaking the ice.

Here are some other Sicilian cultural norms to keep in mind:

• Sicily is more religious than mainland Italy and religious holidays and festivals are piously observed.
• Dress modestly to enter churches anywhere in Sicily. This means that legs should be covered above the knee and shoulders should be covered either by a scarf or a sleeved shirt. Men are also advised to remove any hats.
• Don't be in a rush at lunchtime or dinner. Things move more slowly here, so just kick back and enjoy the languid pace. If you're in a hurry at mealtime, buy street food.
• The Sicilian Mafia is still very much a presence here, though tourists are not likely to notice or be affected by it. Still, it's better not to try to initiate a discussion with locals about the Mafia, even in jest.

Money Saving Tips

A lot of money-saving tips for Italy are also true for Sicily. These include:

• Travel in the off-season: The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are cheaper than the peak summer season. If you can forego warm weather and don't mind a little rain, winter is the cheapest time to visit Sicily.
• Eat street food: Not only is it authentic and delicious, but Sicily's street food, including pizza, arancini (stuffed, deep-fried rice balls), and all sorts of sandwiches are some of the best bargains in the land.
• Do the free stuff: Some of the best sightseeing in Sicily doesn't cost a thing. It's free to sit in a piazza and people watch, walk along seafront promenades, and poke around at colorful local markets. State museums are free to all on the first Sunday of each month.

Encyclopedia Britannica. " Sicily. "

Encyclopedia Britannica. " Palermo ."

BBC. " Viewpoint: Why Sicilians still turn to Mafia to settle scores. " June 6, 2021.

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The Ultimate 7 Day Sicily Itinerary (2024)

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With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and amazing food and wine, it’s no surprise that Sicily is one of the most popular destinations in the Meditteranean. With so much to see and do on the island, it can be challenging to plan a Sicily itinerary and that’s where we’re here to help!

Having explored the island and experienced much of what it has to offer we’ve put together our recommended one week Sicily itinerary. We’ve included everything you’ll need to plan your own Sicily itinerary for 7 days: it includes route suggestions, how long to spend in each area, the best places to stay, and all the best things to see and do in Sicily in one week.

Table of Contents

Sicily Itinerary: the Essentials

First things first, there are a number of Sicily itinerary essentials that are worth considering when planning your trip.

How Long to Spend in Sicily?

Sicily is the largest island in the Meditteranean and there is so much to see and do. You could easily spend two or three weeks exploring the island. If you have one week then we recommend focusing on eastern Sicily.

One week in Sicily : if you have one week then we recommend focusing on the eastern Sicily highlights. A week affords time to visit Taormina, Mount Etna, Syracuse/Ortigia, and the historical towns of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa.

Best time to visit Sicily

With its Mediterranean climate, Sicily is a great year-round destination. Our favourite months to visit are those shouldering the high season, so May, June, September, and October – but it depends on what you plan to do on the island.

• Summer: If you want endless sunshine and dips in the sea then the summer months are favourable.
• Shoulder seasons: if you want a mix of sun and sightseeing then the shoulder months are preferable and hotel rates are often lower.
• Year-round: if sightseeing is your main priority and you don’t mind the cooler months then take advantage of the lower crowds and hotel rates during the rest of the year.

Sicily itinerary tip: we most recently visited Sicily in September and it was a perfect balance of lovely weather (high 20s C), lower crowds and some great rates on hotels.

Shoulder-Season (May-June / September-October): the weather tends to be very good with the south and east coast temperatures typically in the 2 0°Cs even in May and October. Crowds tend to be lower, hotel availability and prices are better and sightseeing is more pleasant in the lower temperatures. The towns and cities are less crowded but are still lively enough for a great atmosphere.

Peak-Season (July and August ): these are the peak months for visitors to Sicily, so demand for hotels and crowds are increased. Temperatures range from lows at night of 20 °C to daytime highs of over 30°C.

Low-Season (November to April) The off-peak months are the best for those looking to visit the archaeological and historical sites on the island. Visitor numbers to Sicily are much lower during these months and daytime temperatures rarely drop below 10 °C .

How to get around Sicily

Most visitors to Sicily either rent a car or travel by train. It’s also possible to see lots of the island by taking day trips from the two biggest cities, Palermo and Catania.

Renting a car

Renting a car in Sicily is the easiest way to explore the island. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make stops at all the wonderful sights on the island. We love having a rental car in Sicily as it gives so much freedom to explore the island.

Rental car prices can be slightly more expensive than the Italian mainland (as is expected with most island rentals), however, if you book in advance you can secure good prices and car availability. We recommend using RentalCars.com  to reserve your car. They have a great selection and really competitive prices –  check prices here!

Book your car now with RentalCars.com

Sicily by train

Sicily has a good train network and it is possible to reach many of the popular destinations by train. Well serviced tourist routes include:

• Palermo – Catania – Taromina
• Palermo – Cefalu
• Catania – Syracuse
• Syracuse – Noto
• Palermo – Agrigento

Day Trips and Tours

Many of the main sights can be reached by taking day trips from the popular tourist towns. We’ll list some of the most popular tours as we move through the itinerary.

Sicily Itinerary: Suggested 7 Days

From the stunning seaside town of Taormina to the buzzing capital of Palermo and the historical Baroque Island of Ortigia, this is the ultimate 7 day Sicily Itinerary for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful Mediterranean island.

Sicily Itinerary: Suggested One Week Route

Most visitors to Sicily arrive through either Catania or Palermo. We’ve included itineraries for both of these arrival points so you can follow our recommended Sicily itinerary from either.

Our one-week Sicily itinerary includes lots of day trip ideas so you will have lots of opportunities to explore more of the island.

• If you fly into Catania : Catania – Taromina – Syracuse/Ortigia – Catania
• If you fly into Palermo: Palermo – Taormina – Syracuse/Ortigia – Palermo

Our route includes all the main cities, sights, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the east of the island. We’ve also included some of the lesser-visited spots that are definitely worth a stop.

Sicily Itinerary: Route Map

We’ve put together a one week Sicily Itinerary route map which includes all the main sites on the island and our recommended route.

Click here for the Google Map

How to Use This Google Map:  Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

Sicily 7 Day Itinerary

The first two days will be spent in Catania or Palermo depending on which airport you arrive at in Sicily. After day 2, both itineraries follow the same route on the east coast of the island before departing Sicily.

Days 1/2: Palermo / Catania

If you arrive in palermo: palermo (2 nights).

Visitors to Sicily might be tempted to skip the capital city of Palermo in favour of the seaside towns on the east and south of the island but it’s definitely worth spending at least one day checking out Palermo.

Sicily itinerary tip: We recommend speding two nights in Palermo: one day to explore the city and a second to try some of the day trips from Palermo.

Where to Stay in Palermo

Hotel Politeama: we loved our stay in Hotel Politeama. Overlooking the Politeama Theatre, this modern hotel is perfectly located for exploring the city. The hotel has reasonably priced valet parking if you are driving – check prices now!

Alma Hotel : small boutique hotel located in the center of Palermo. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a budget-friendly hotel located close to everything in Palermo – check prices now!

Massimo Plaza Hotel : for those wanting one of the best locations in Palermo then check out the Massimo Plaza Hotel. It’s located directly in front of the Massimo Theatre opera house and is a short stroll from all the major sights – check prices now!

Book your Palermo hotel here

Things to do in Palermo

Palermo was a surprise hit for us on our first visit to Sicily and we loved the vibrant and fun city. There are lots of amazing things to do in Palermo , from enjoying the delicious food to browsing the markets throughout the city and marveling at the stunning architecture of this historic city.

Palermo is a foodie paradise so make sure to visit one of the city’s amazing food markets: Mercato del Ballaro (the largest of the markets), Mercato della Vuccuria and Mercato del Capo (a small local market) are all worth a visit and each market has its own charm.

The best way to sample Palermo food is by taking a food tour. This tour includes del Capo market, so it’s a great way to start your first day in Palermo, plus it will give you a great feel for the city – check prices now!

Book your food tour now

Palermo is also packed with historical and archaeological sites. The Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace with its Palatine Chapel were our favorites. Make sure to stop by the Massimo Theatre , the Capuchin Catacombs , and Santa Caterina Church , all of which should not be missed.

Day trips from Palermo

Due to its location, Palermo is a great place to visit some of Sicily’s most beautiful places by day trip. The most popular day trips are to Monreale, home to Monreale Cathedral, and the archaeological sites of Segesta and Agrigento. Our favourite day trips include:

• M onreale and Cefalu: located on the slopes of Monte Caputo, Monreale’s biggest draw is the Duomo di Monreale, its magnificent Cathedral adorned with gold mosaics. Considered the most important masterpiece of Sicily’s Norman period, the cathedral is one of 9 civil and religious structures which make up the UNESCO listing for the Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale. The coastal town of Cefalu is a typical Italian seaside town and is home to Duomo di Cefalu, another cathedral on the list – check tour prices here!
• Segesta, Erice and the Salt Pans of Trapani: a whistlestop tour of three remarkable sights on the west of Sicily. The tour includes the beautiful archaeological site of Segesta and the medieval hilltop town of Erice as well as a stop at the Salt Pans of Trapani – check tour prices here!
• Agrigento and Valley of Temples: one of the highlights of Sicily, the sprawling archaeological site is located on a rocky hilltop overlooking the ocean and is home to some incredible Greek artefacts –  check tour prices here!

Check out our full list of day trips from Palermo for more day-trip ideas.

If you arrive in Catania: Catania (2 nights)

An ancient port city, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city and the arrival point for many visitors. Catania is different to Palermo, but not in a bad way. While Palermo may have more markets, Catania is better for shopping and has an abundance of trattoria for food. Catania’s architecture is also more Boroque buildings and it’s worth spending a few nights in the historic city, a compelling mix of gritty and charming.

Sicily Itinerary tip: Catania was almost entirely destroyed in the 1693 earthquake (not Mount Etna as sometimes assumed) and the city was rebuilt in the Boroque style, leading to a different experience compared with Palermo.

We recommend allowing two days for Catania: one day to explore the city and a second to make some of the day trips from the city.

Where to stay in Catania

• Hotel Centrum Catania : great location close to Catania’s historic attractions. Rooms are refurbished and modern and breakfast and parking are provided for guests – check prices here!
• Hotel Villa Romeo : once a 19th Century palace, the hotel is located opposite the train station making it a convenient choice for those travelling in Sicily by train – check prices now!

Book your stay in Catania now

Things to do in Catania

One day is enough time to see most of the main sights in Catania.

Start your morning at the Catania Fish Market (Piscaria Mercato del Pesce). Located close to the Port and a short walk from Ursino Castle (Castello Ursino). The fish market is one of the best markets in Sicily and is packed with every kind of seafood imaginable.

Sicily Itinerary: LIke most markets in Europe we recommend visiting the fish market early in the morning to experience it at its best. It can get very busy by mid morning.

Make sure not to miss the Catania Archaeological Park in the centre of the old town. Catania was once a Greek settlement and the ruins of the Greek Theatre remain hidden away under the city. The park contains a Roman Amphiteare and baths along with the Greek-Roman Theatre on Via Vittorio Emanuele II.

One of the best parts of the park is that visitors are free to walk around all of the ruins so it’s a very intimate experience compared to other archaeological sites in Italy.

There are many great sites to explore in Catania. We recommend a visit to the stunning Bellini Gardens and the impressive Catania Cathedral . The medieval Ursino Castle is definitely worth an hour to explore and has an impressive museum inside.

If you fancy some window shopping take a stroll up Via Etnae , a partially pedestrianised street that leads off Piazza Duomo. There is also a great view of Mount Etna in the distance looking north from Via Etnae.

Day trips from Catania

Catania is a great base for day trips to various places along the east coast of Sicily. A visit to Mount Etna is by far the most popular day trip from Catania. It’s is also possible to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site such as Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale as a day trip.

• Mount Etna: most visitors to Catania make the journey to Mount Etna, one of Sicily’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. There are some fantastic tours which include guided hikes around the ancient craters and recent lava flows. This tour is one of the most popular day trips from Catania and the best for Mount Etna – check prices here!

Book your trip to Mount Etna

• Another great option for Mount Etna is this tour that includes Mount Etna cable car and a hike to the summit – check prices here!
• Godfather filming locations: a must-do for fans of the Godfather trilogy, this tour visits the Sicily filming locations around Catania- check prices here!
• Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale: one of the highlights of Sicily, the sprawling archaeological site is located on a rocky hilltop overlooking the ocean and is home to some incredible Greek artefacts – check prices here!

Both itineraries follow the same route from Day 3:

Days 3/4: Taormina (2 nights)

Taormina is located on the northeastern corner of Sicily in the shadow of Mount Etna and is one of our favorite places in Sicily. The beautiful hillside town is perched almost 500 meters above the sea and is a Meditteranean paradise with quaint old streets, incredible food, and beautiful views.

We recommend at least two full days for Taormina (although we could have spent a week here!).

Sicily Itinerary tip: Taormina is a key stop for many cruise ship tours so it can get very busy during the day.

Getting from Palermo/Catania to Taormina

It’s a three-hour drive from Palermo to Taormina along the beautiful north coast of Sicily. The coastal town of Cefalù is a lovely stop en route. The highlight is the Cefalù Cathedral nestled beneath La Rocca di Cefalù, the great hill towering over the town.

You can also take the train between Palermo or Catania and Taormina: it takes about 4.5 hours from Palermo Centrale to Taormina Giardini, connecting in Catania Centrale.

Where to Stay in Taormina

Taormina is a really popular tourist destination in Sicily and, despite its small size, attracts many visitors each year. As a result demand for hotels during peak months is very high so we recommend booking your stay well in advance, so it’s important to decide on where to stay in Taormina well in advance of your trip.

Sicily Itinerary tip: We recommend staying in a hotel in the old town so the restaurants and sights are only a short walk away. If you stay by the sea then it’s a long walk or a taxi drive up to the old town.

• Hotel Villa Belvedere : our favorite hotel to stay in Taormina, we love staying at Hotel Villa Belvedere. The hotel overlooks the ocean and has views of Mount Etna. There is a beautiful pool and the Old Town location means it’s a perfect choice. Hotel Villa Belvedere is one of the most popular in Taormina and does sell out during peak times, so make sure to book well in advance – check prices now!
• Hotel Villa Ducale : a small boutique hotel with incredible views of the sea and Mount Etna. Hotel Vilal Ducale is located on the hill above Taormina, a short walk from Madonna della Rocca Church and offers a shuttle down to the town and beach. – check prices now!
• Hotel Casa Adele : a great budget option in Taormina. Casa Adele is perfectly located in the middle of Taormina beside Porta Catania, one of the main entrances to the old town. Everything is a short walk and it’s one of the best-ranked hotels in Taormina – check prices now!

Book your stay in Taormina

Things to do in Taormina

Despite it’s relatively small size, there are a lot of things to do in Taormina . Stroll along the Corso Umberto (the ancient main street) and take in the views from Piazza IX Aprile. Get lost down the winding back streets and check out the public gardens, a quiet oasis away from the crowds. The food in Taormina is also amazing and a stop at Bam Bar, famous for its granitas, is essential!

The highlight of Taormina is the ancient Greek theatre that sits in the old town. This 4th-century theatre has one of the most impressive backdrops we’ve ever seen with Mount Etna towering in the distance. To avoid the crowds we recommend visiting the theatre early in the morning – check prices now!

Book your Taormina theatre tickets here

If you fancy a day on the beach, make your way down the hill to Isola Bella, a small island located below Taormina. Known as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea, visitors can walk the stony beach out to the island and it’s a great place for a swim.

Sicily Itinerary tip: Isola Bella beach is a stony beach so we recommend taking swim shoes with you, especially for young kids.

If you’re feeling active there is a beautiful hike from the old town up to the Della Madonna Church above Taormina. The views from up here are incredible and it is a great place to view Mount Etna from.

Taormina is a great base for exploring the area and a day trip to Mount Etna is a must. We drove from Taormina to the Rifugio Sapienza, a tourist area on the slopes on Mount Etna from where the cable cars depart.

• Mount Etna: Mount Etna is a popular day trip from Taormina. One of the best tours includes pickup in an offroad jeep from Taormina from Catania or Taormina and a guided hike around the ancient craters and recent lava flows – check prices here! or this full-day tour which includes lunch and includes wine tasting at a local winery – check prices here!
• Aeolian Islands: a UNESCO World Heritage site, the seven island archipelago is a little piece of paradise located close to Sicily’s north coast. This full-day tour, which stops at two islands, is a fantastic opportunity to experience the Aeolian Islands – check prices here!

Days 5/6: Syracuse and Ortigia (2 nights)

The city of Syracuse and the island of Ortigia are packed with charm and history. Ortigia Island (also known as Città Vecchia, the Old City) is the historic centre of the city and is connected to Syracuse by three bridges.

We recommend spending at least three days in Syracuse, which will allow a day for exploring Ortigia, Syracuse and a day trip to the stunning old towns of Noto, Ragusa and Modica.

Where to Stay in Syracuse and Ortigia

The main decision facing visitors to Syracuse is whether to stay in Syracuse itself or on the historic island of Ortigia.

Siciliy itinerary tip: we decided to stay on the mainland as we had a rental car (Ortigia is a restricted traffic zone and parking is limited) and we planned to do lots of day trips. We spent a few mornings/afternoons in Ortigia and loved it.

Ortigia: Stay here if you want old-world charm, cobbled streets and boutique hotels. Ortigia is packed with character and offers stunning sea views and lots of restaurant options. Plus you will get to experience the island in the evening when most of the day visitors leave.

• Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel – one of the best hotel options in Ortigia and our top pick for the island check prices now!

Syracuse: We found the hotel options more affordable and more varied on the mainland and it was easier to find a hotel with free parking. It’s still very easy to visit Ortigia.

• Hotel Mercure Siracusa : we stayed here recently and had a lovely time. A modern hotel located a short walk from the Neapolis Archaeological Park and Archaeological Museum. It’s a perfect base for staying in Syracuse and it has free parking! – check prices now!
• Caportigia Boutique Hotel – another great option if you’re looking to stay on the mainland – check prices now!

Book your stay in Syracuse now

Things to do in Ortigia

We recommend taking a day to explore the beautiful island of Ortigia in the centre of Syracuse. It’s a small island and easily explored on foot.

Siciliy itinerary tip: If you are driving a rental car in Sicily there is ample parking close to the entrance to Ortigia. We don’t recommend taking a car onto Origitia island as the entire island is a a ZTL area. Entering the ZTL outside the allocated times can lead to a hefty fine.

There are lots of things to see in Ortigia, including the Arethusa Springs , the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse and the Temple of Apollo . We really enjoyed strolling around the narrow streets of Ortigia and just wandering around the town.

For a really unique experience in Ortigia check out the Church of St. Filippo the Apostle . The church is a hidden gem in Ortigia. Here visitors can take a tour of the underground levels of the church (built by the Greeks) that are beneath the city. Tours run hourly throughout the day.

Things to do in Syracuse

Most of the main historical sights in Syracuse are located just north of the city. Our favourite place in Syracuse was the Neapolis Archaeological Park which is home to the most important archaeological sites in Syracuse including the large Roman and Greek Amphitheatres. The park is open each day from 9 am and takes around 2-3 hours to visit – check prices now!

Make sure to visit the cave known as the Ear of Dionysius located in the park. This ancient water cistern is shaped like an ear which gives it excellent acoustics.

Book your tickets now

A short walk from the Neapolis Archaeological Park is the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi . The museum holds a vast array of artefacts from locations throughout Sicily and is one of the most prominent archaeological museums in Europe.

Sicily Itinerary tip: The museum also holds an impressive coin collection, which is only open to the public in the mornings.

The impressive Basilica Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime (Our Lady of the Tears) church is just across the road from the archaeological museum and is worth a visit.

One final place that’s worth a visit is the Catacombs of San Giovann i (the catacombs of St. John). Visitors can take a tour of the subterranean tombs that lie beneath the church.

Day Trips from Syracuse

Syracuse is a great base for exploring the southeast of Sicily. We stayed in Syracuse for 5 nights and did day trips to a number of places along the coast.

• Ragusa, Noto and Modica : the UNESCO towns of Ragusa, Noto and Modica are popular day trips from Syracuse. These beautiful towns are well worth the trip and we especially enjoyed Ragusa and Noto.

• Enjoy the Beaches : the coast around Syracuse has some of the best beaches in Sicily and great places to relax for a day. Some of the most popular beaches close to Syracusa include Arenella Beach (a popular local beach) and the beautiful Fontane Bianche.

• Necropolis of Pantalica : this is a perfect day trip for anyone interested in archaeology or hiking. The Necropolis of Pantalia is a cemetery of almost 5,000 rock-hewn tombs located in a limestone valley around an hour west of Syracuse. The necropolis dates back to the 7th-13th centuries. Pantalica was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the city of Syracuse, in 2005. We visited the necropolis from Syracuse and it was well worth it. The views of the gorge and the many tombs are a really unique experience.

Day 7: Return to Palermo / Catania

Depending on your departure city there is another day at the end of your trip to relax and take in anything you missed before departing Sicily.

3 thoughts on “The Ultimate 7 Day Sicily Itinerary (2024)”

Do you truly recommend driving in Sicily? I am a solo traveler and part of me feels it would be great to drive but I’ve heard it’s awful !!

Did you end up driving? Would love to know because I’m in the same sort of boat!

We had a rental car and drove around the island – this post has more info on driving in Sicily

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The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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A region and destination all of its own, planning the perfect Sicily itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming at first glance. With so much to offer, figuring out how to spend 7 to 10 days in Sicily is a bit of a daunting task when you’re trying to fit in everything there is to see. With electric cities, beautiful beaches, ancient ruins and charming towns, Sicily is one of the most dynamic places to visit in all of Italy.

Whether you’re visiting Sicily as a stand-alone destination or it’s part of a longer trip to Italy, there is so much to see and do on the Mediterranean’s largest island that it certainly deserves its own itinerary. So if you’re wondering what to see and do in this Southern Italian region, follow this itinerary to plan out your ideal route across this inimitable island.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sicily?

If you want to see the highlights of the island, have time to explore the two largest cities and see some surrounding places, then plan to spend at least 7 days in Sicily.

With a week in Sicily, you’ll be able to spend a proper amount of time in the two main cities (which means you don’t need to choose between Catania vs Palermo ) along with exploring some smaller towns (like Taormina and Cefalu) and seeing some incredible sites like the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento.

If you want to get quite a holistic view of the island, then spending 10 days is going to be your best bet. You’ll have more time to explore some lessor visited parts of Western Sicily.

Even if you plan 10 days, you’re still not going to be able to get to all of the top spots the island has to offer, so if you have 2 weeks or more, this could be ideal — especially if you want to circumnavigate the island.

Getting To & Around Sicily

Though it is an island, Sicily is well-connected to the rest of Italy and to the majority of Europe. It is home to three international airports and has extensive train and ferry connections depending on where you’re coming from.

If you’re planning a stand-alone Sicily trip, it’s likely that you’re going to be flying into the island. There are three international airports on the island that vary in the level of traffic.

The busiest and highest-traffic airport (and where you will most likely be flying into) is Catania Airport located just outside of Sicily’s second-largest city. This airport has countless connections to many different destinations across Europe and beyond.

The Sicilian capital of Palermo also has its own airport with quite a few connections across Europe, so that is another viable option when it comes to arriving in Sicily.

There is also a small airport outside of Trapani, as well, that mostly serves destinations in Italy along with a handful of other European destinations.

Sicily is also accessible via train, which is a great option if you’re tacking on a trip here to an extended time in Italy. It can be a great idea to visit Sicily after, say enjoying some time exploring Puglia or wandering around the Amalfi Coast . There are direct trains to Sicily from cities like Rome and Naples to most major hubs on the island. You can view schedules here.

The island is also accessible via ferry from several neighbouring ports. For instance, if you want to visit Sicily before or after exploring the lovely nation of Malta , you can enjoy direct ferry connections (you can view schedules here ).

Once in Sicily, you have a few options when it comes to getting around. You can easily get around here on foot when you’re exploring the major cities. In fact, even if you want to – for instance – go on a day trip to Taormina from Catania , it is easy to do this via bus or train.

Train connections between the major cities and towns are extensive and affordable, so this can be a good option if you’re happy to stick to city centres/ However, in order to do this particular route, it’s highly recommended to hire a car and plan a Sicily road trip!

With your own car in Sicily, you will have the flexibility to make stops along the way between destinations and the ability to explore more of the island with far more ease.

Driving in Sicily definitely has a negative reputation, however, I didn’t find it as bad as I had built it up in my head (particularly on the highways, where driving was easy) so long as you keep aware and drive defensively.

If you want to rent a car for a Sicily road trip, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to find deals across a range of major rental car companies.

7 to 10 Day Sicily Itinerary

If you only have 7 days in Sicily, make sure to read the entry under day 7 carefully in order to properly plan out your Sicily trip.

This route is done easiest with a car, however, it isn’t entirely necessary to rent a car for the first couple of days in Catania, especially as most of the day trip options are easily accessible via public transport.

Day 1 – Catania

The easiest place to start any trip to Sicily is in the island’s second-largest city of Catania . Home to the highest-traffic airport in the region, this city is a logical jumping-off point to exploring the splendours of this beautiful island.

Catania can often be overlooked in lieu of Palermo or more picturesque Sicilian destinations, however, it is absolutely worth visiting this lively metropolis.

Spend your first day in Catania exploring the highlights of the city centre including the Piazza Duomo, the epic fish market and taking in the views of the city and Mount Etna from the Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata. You can book a walking tour here.

End your day with a leisurely aperitivo in one of Catania’s lively bars and get some delicious street food (or dine in one of the city’s top restaurants!) for dinner.

Where to Stay in Catania

Hotel Centrum – For those travelling on a mid-range budget, this hotel is a great choice. Centrally located behind the Teatro Bellini, it is within easy reach of the top sites in Catania. They have great rooms available and offer breakfast each morning.

Liberty Hotel – This luxury hotel is a great high-end choice in Catania. They have plush rooms on offer, a buffet breakfast each morning, an airport shuttle available and a perfect location for exploring the highlights of the city.

La Dimora del Barbiere – If you’d like to have your own flat during your time in Catania, then this is a great place to choose. There are a range of flats to choose from (varying in size) and an excellent location for exploring Sicily’s second-largest city.

The Yard Hostel – For budget and solo travellers, this hostel is a perfect choice. They have a great, central location, offer both dorm and private rooms and have several great common areas that make socialising easy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Catania!

Day 2 – Taormina, Mt Etna or Siracusa

Day two of your Sicily itinerary should be dedicated to taking a day trip from Catania and exploring more of Eastern Sicily. One of the most popular places is the town of Taormina, which is known for its ancient Greek theatre and beautiful coastline surrounding it.

It’s also a popular option to take a trip to Mount Etna, whether it be to take the cable car and hike around the craters or to sip wines grown in the foothills. If you want to combine both Taormina and Mount Etna and don’t have a car, then you can take this full-day tour  or this day tour.

Finally, another great option is to head south to the city of Siracusa (Syracuse). This city boasts some more incredible ancient ruins, stunning Baroque artitecture and it is a unique and beautiful place to explore. If you don’t have a car, you can go by train or an organised tour such as this day tour.

Day 3 – Catania

On day 3, you have a choice. You can either take this day to dig deeper and explore more of Catania (this is what I would recommend) or, if you’ve had your fill of the city, you can opt to go on a day trip to somewhere nearby.

The latter is a good option if you feel you can’t choose just one of the many day trip options from Catania.

If you choose to remain in the city, spend your day wandering through the Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto, enjoying the tranquillity of the Villa Bellini and visiting some of the other top sites of the city that you may have missed on your previous day.

Day 4 – Cefalu

Day 4 is a travel day with your eventual destination being the capital city of Palermo, where you’ll spend the night.

The drive from Catania to Palermo is only about 3 hours and it is mostly along a well-maintained and paved highway. However, keep in mind that driving into Palermo can be a bit hectic and stressful, so make sure you are prepared.

While en route to Palermo, plan to make a stop in the beautiful town of Cefalu. Located on the north coast of Sicily, you can enjoy a lovely beach here, take in views of the Aeolian islands and get lost in the charming old town.

There are gorgeous views of the surrounding cliffside and a great, laid-back vibe here that makes it very much worth exploring.

Cefalu is located about an hour from Palermo and you can reach the town in about 2-2.5 hours from Catania, so it makes for the perfect stop along the way without adding much to your journey time.

Where to Stay in Palermo

Alma Hotel – This 3-star hotel makes for a great option for mid-range travellers in Palermo. It is centrally located, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and they offer a buffet breakfast each morning.

Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is an excellent luxury option in Palermo. It is centrally located for exploring the highlights of the Sicilian capital, they have countless plush rooms available and a number of other amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Appartamento Piazza Pretoria – This 2-bedroom flat is a great option for those looking for a self-catering option in Palermo. It has an excellent location near the Pretoria Fountain and Quattro Canti and comes fully equipped with everything you may need.

A Casa di Amici Boutique Hostel – For those travelling on a budget or solo, this hostel is a great choice for you. They have a good, social atmosphere, offer both dorms and private rooms and it is well-located to explore all Palermo has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Palermo hotels!

Day 5 – Palermo

Plan to spend the fifth day of your Sicily road trip itinerary exploring the lively, electric city of Palermo! As Sicily’s capital city, planning to spend at least 2 days in Palermo is absolutely essential if you’re going to be spending any amount of time in this region.

Spend your first day in the city taking in some of the top sites in the city centre along with some of the city’s intoxicating markets.

Wander around the Quattro Canti, the Pretoria Fountain, beautiful churches, the Palermo Cathedral and the Mercato di Ballaro among many other things. You can even organise a guided walking tour or a street food tour!

End your day with an aperitivo before heading to La Vucciria to really take in the energy of this lively city at its famed night market.

Day 6 – Palermo

The sixth day of your trip should also be devoted to exploring Palermo because there are likely several places that you haven’t seen just yet.

Spend your morning taking the Massimo Theatre, the Archaeological Museum and gorging yourself on arancini and caponata at the Mercato di Capo.

In the afternoon, head out to Mondello Beach, a lovely stretch of sand located to the north of the city.

After spending a few hours lounging on the beach, head to Monte Pellegrino to enjoy some spectacular views over Palermo, the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding area.

Day 7 – Monreale, Segesta & Erice

If you only have one week in Sicily, this will be the final day of your Sicily itinerary and you should, instead of making your way to Trapani, plan to do a day trip to Agrigento from Palermo.

However, if you are planning a 10-day Sicily itinerary, then use this day to make some pit stops while en route to the coastal city of Trapani.

The first stop on your drive to Trapani should be in the town of Monreale, which is only located about 10 kilometres outside of Palermo. This town is well-known for its beautiful cathedral and gorgeous mosaics.

After exploring a bit of Monreale, drive to the archaeological site of Segesta. Located about an hour outside of Palermo, this is home to an excellently preserved ancient Greek temple and a beautiful amphitheatre.

The two sites are located a bit away from each other (and the theatre is up quite a steep hill), so it’s recommended to take the shuttle bus up the hill to see the amphitheatre. Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here.

Make your final stop for the day be the lovely hilltop town of Erice. Located on a hill overlooking Trapani, Erice is absolutely beautiful and boasts incredible views (especially on the drive up — you can also take a cable car from Trapani, however) and picturesque cobble lanes and alleyways.

End your day in Trapani, enjoying the lovely location on the confluence of the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian seas.

Where to Stay in Trapani

Hotel San Michele – Located in the centre of Trapani, this hotel is an excellent choice for mid-range travellers to this western Sicilian city. They have clean, cool and comfortable rooms available and offer breakfast each morning.

Room Of Andrea Hotel – This 4-star hotel is the perfect choice for those looking for a luxe stay in Trapani. It has an excellent location for exploring the city and its surrounding area, plush rooms available and plenty of other wonderful amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Residence La Gancia – If you’d like your own space in Trapani, then this aparthotel is an excellent choice. It is centrally located close to the highlights of the city and they also have fully-furnished apartments available. There is also a bar and fitness centre on site.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Trapani hotels!

Day 8 – Trapani

Day 8 should be devoted to exploring lovely Trapani in Western Sicily. Though this is a major metropolitan area, the historical centre of Trapani is quite compact and you can easily explore the top sites within the span of a morning.

In the afternoon, you have a few options. You could opt to head to the beach (there are several lovely beaches within a stone’s throw of Trapani’s centre) and soak up the sun for the rest of the day. Or you could hop on a ferry and spend a half-day exploring the nearby island of Favignana.

As the sun begins to set, make sure to hop in the car and head to the salt pans located just south of the city centre. Sometimes, you can even see flamingos enjoying the salinated waters here.

Day 9 – Marsala & Selinunte

On the penultimate day of your Sicilian adventure, it’s time to leave Trapani and make your way along the south coast of Sicily en route to Agrigento – but, of course, there are plenty of stops to make along the way!

The first is in the coastal city of Marsala. This town is famous for its eponymous fortified wine, but it also boasts a charming historical centre and some salt pans that are very similar to those in Trapani.

Afterwards, make your way to Selinunte, a lovely archaeological park located on the south coast of Sicily. This park includes the ruins of countless temples and other ancient sites and it is absolutely fascinating to wander around. Its location on the coast also boasts incredible views of the Mediterranean, as well.

If you’re looking for a great meal, we highly recommend heading to Trattoria Casa Mia in the town just a few hundred metres from the park entrance. It is a bit unassuming, but this ended up being one of our favourite meals during our time in Sicily.

From Selinunte, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive before you reach Agrigento.

Where to Stay in Agrigento

Hotel Exclusive – Located in the centre of Agrigento, this hotel is a great base for exploring all this area has to offer. They have clean and comfortable rooms available and they also have a great breakfast available each morning.

Doric Boutique Hotel – This luxury hotel is a great place to stay when exploring the area near Agrigento if you’re after a plush stay. They are expertly poised for exploring the Valley of the Temples, they have lovely rooms to choose from and there is a restaurant, bar and spa/wellness centre on site.

A Cantunera LittleHouse – For those looking for their own space while visiting Agrigento are sure to love this two-bedroom house. It is well located to explore the area and it comes fully furnished and well-equipped with everything you may need for a great stay in Sicily.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Agrigento hotels!

Day 10 – Agrigento

Spend the final day of your 10 days in Sicily exploring the highlights surrounding the town of Agrigento. This area is most famous for being home to the Valley of the Temples, which is an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site that houses seven ruined Greek temples – including some of the best-preserved temples in the world.

Plan to spend the morning exploring the Valley of the Temples – you need at least a couple of hours in order to do the park justice. Stop for lunch in Agrigento proper before making your way to the beautiful Scala dei Turchi.

These are beautiful white cliffs that cascade into the sea and very much resemble a staircase. If you want to fight the crowds and try and find a place to park, you can even climb over the cliffs and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean.

From the Scala dei Turchi, head to Lido Rosello. This is a beautiful beach located right next to the cliffs and it provides incredible views of the Scala dei Turchi with a fraction of the crowds. End your Sicily itinerary by lounging on the beach and enjoying the incredible scenery that surrounds you.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 10 days in Sicily, then there are countless ways to extend your trip. The first thing that springs to mind is to plan to spend a day or two in southeast Sicily around Siracusa.

You can spend a day or two exploring the city itself and another couple of days heading to the hill towns in the nearby Val di Noto such as Ragusa and Modica.

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path, then you could also head to the Aeolian islands and spend a bit of time hopping around this gorgeous and historic archipelago.

Planning a Sicily itinerary is one of the most fun trips to map out in all of Italy. An island with so much to offer, there is no wrong way to visit this incredible place.

Are you planning to visit Sicily? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Maggie and really enjoyed the info you have provided. We are 2 older fit lades (from Australia) planning to tour Sicily in early November. Many of the small group Tours don’t really cover what we want and the private Tours for 2 are expensive. At this point I am thinking I could possibly plan our own private itinerary for the 2 weeks. I have been doing this for 45 years and have never had problems. But the one big hitch is we need a driver to take us from place to place – say Palermo to our next port of call. We would spend say 2 to 3 nights doing some day excursions which I would organise when we arrived or pre-plan. Can you let me know how we would go about finding the 4 or 5 private drivers we would need? no point in engaging the 1 person when we may be spending several nights in one spot. Would appreciate any help many thanks Leigh Enever

Hi Leigh – sounds like you’re planning a great trip and I’m happy you’ve found this information helpful! You can find a lot of private drivers here on Viator that will hopefully be what you’re looking for 🙂

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The perfect sicily itinerary: how to spend 5-7 days.

Sicily is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy. The Mediterranean island boasts medieval charm and a fascinating culture with Greek, Roman, and North African influences. If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, you’re in for a fantastic vacation. 

Spending a week in Sicily will give you endless opportunities to explore the island’s best attractions and immerse yourself in the culture, including strolling through some of the best medieval towns in Italy to exploring Roman ruins.

» You may also like these 11 Beach Hotels in Sicily for 2023 .

We’ve been to many places in Sicily and have always enjoyed our time there. The food is incredible, the views are stunning. You just can’t go wrong with a vacation there.

We’ve put together a 5-7 day Sicily itinerary for you that will take you to the stunning beaches, charming villages – we especially loved Taormina – the ancient ruins, and for some wine tasting on Mt. Etna.

Visiting soon? Check out our expertly curated Sicily itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip, from where to visit , the airports that are closest to the places on our list, plus our guide to wine tasting in Sicily , the food you should eat , and the best beach hotels on the island.

Planning your trip to Sicily?

• Book a transfer from the airport to Catania city center with Welcome Pickups.
• Rent a car from the Catania or Palermo airports through Discover Cars .

Where to Stay See all hotel options

• Where to Stay in Palermo: Rocco Forte Villa Igiea – A renovated Art Nouveau palazzo overlooking the gulf or Palermo – luxury 5-star family-run hotel. 
• Where to Stay in Catania: With tastefully decorated rooms and high-end amenities and facilities, the  Liberty Hotel  is one of the best in the city.
• Where to Stay in Taormina: There’s no better place to stay than the  Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , with direct views of Mount Etna.

Best Tours and Experiences in Sicily:

• Godfather vs Mafia Tour & Sicilian Light Lunch – This is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
• Private 6-Hour Tour of Three Etna Wineries – you can’t miss these wineries!
• Streaty – Palermo Street Food Walking Tour – great way to sample a lot of things at once

Table of Contents

How to Get to Sicily

Sicily is a beautiful island located in the southernmost part of Italy , and there are several ways to get there. The most common way to reach Sicily is by plane. The island has several airports , including the Catania-Fontanarossa Airport and the Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport, which receive regular flights from major European cities.

Another option is to take a ferry from mainland Italy. Ferries run from several ports, including Naples , Genoa, and Livorno, and offer a scenic and relaxing way to reach Sicily.

If you prefer to drive, you can cross the Strait of Messina via the A3 motorway, which connects Calabria on the mainland to Messina on the island.

Tips for Traveling to Sicily

When traveling to Sicily, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

• Rent a car (I always book with DiscoverCars.com for the best deal) or hire a driver to explore the island, as public transportation can be unreliable and limited in some areas.
• Be prepared for hot and humid weather in the summer months, and plan accordingly by packing light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying the delicious Sicilian cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, pastries, and pasta dishes.
• Don’t miss out on visiting some of the island’s most famous attractions, such as the ancient Greek temples at Agrigento, the picturesque fishing village of Cefalù, and the stunning beaches of Taormina.

Sicily Itinerary | 5-7 days on the Island

This Sicily 7-day itinerary takes you from the island’s capital, Palermo, in the west on a road trip to Catania in the east.

You can either explore the island from the west to the east coast, like in this itinerary or vice versa. Which way you go usually depends on where you need to fly into. There are quite a few airports on the island, but most people fly into Palermo or Catania.

The Itinerary:

If you have 7 days:

Day 1: Trapani

Day 2-3: palermo, day 4: cefalù, day 5: taormina, day 6: mt etna.

• OR Catania – I waver suggesting two major cities in a 7-day itinerary. My preference would be to choose either Palermo or Catania and skip the other.
• Day 7: Syracuse

If you have 5 days:

• Day 1: Palermo
• Day 2: Cefalù
• Day 3: Taormina
• Day 4: Mt Etna
• Day 5: Syracuse or Catania

Keep in mind that you might need to drive back to your starting point to fly out, if you can’t get a flight into one airport and out of another.

While some travelers will only choose one side of the island to visit, I think you should do both in one trip, unless you foresee coming back to Sicily in the future for another trip. However, if you only have 5 days and you have to fly into Catania, then I would skip the west coast and do Syracuse, Catania, Mt Etna, and Taormina.

If you have more time to spend, like 10-14 days, I wouldn’t choose to go to more places. I would spend more time in each of the places listed below.

Who Is Sicily For?

I personally think anyone would love Sicily. It’s steeped in history, culture, and amazing scenery, but you might be wondering if you’ll find something there for you.

• If you’re a history lover, you’re going to really enjoy the island’s ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Roman Amphitheater in Syracuse.
• Foodies will love the fresh seafood, arancini, and cannoli. The island is also famous for its wine production, and wine tastings and vineyard tours are a popular activity.
• Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes of Sicily, including Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe , and the picturesque Aeolian Islands, which offer great hiking and swimming opportunities.
• The island’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Italy, with crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Some of the best beaches in Sicily include the stunning Scala dei Turchi, the white-sand beach of San Vito Lo Capo, and the black-sand beach of Giardini Naxos.

On the first day of your Sicily itinerary, explore the stunning coastal city of Trapani. After landing at Palermo Airport, rent a car and drive to your hotel in Trapani. The drive is 55 minutes. If you arrive early, you plunge right in to sightseeing instead.

Options: If you want to spend more time in each place, I would suggest skipping Trapani (as sad as that is!) and heading straight to Palermo.

Where to Stay in Trapani

The  Rooms of Andrea Hotel  in the center of Trapani is a 4-star property with an ideal location for exploring the city; it’s one of the best.

Famous for its crescent-shaped shoreline, white-sand beaches, and Baroque architecture, Trapani is a great place to spend an entire summer vacation in the Mediterranean Sea . But you have just a day to enjoy it, so time is of the essence.

Admire The City’s Baroque Architecture

Start your day off with a stroll around the city, exploring its unique architecture. Chiesa delle Anime Sante del Purgatorio is an excellent place to admire Trapani’s Baroque architecture. 

Other historical sites like Cattedrale di San Lorenzo and Piazza Mercato del Pesce are also great depictions of Baroque architecture and are worth a visit.

Go Island Hopping

Hop on a boat tour to the Egadi Islands and enjoy a fantastic day of island hopping between Favignana and Levanzo. Onboard, you’ll have expert commentary about the islands and their Roman history. You’ll find several snorkeling spots and beaches ideal for sunbathing.

Visit the Trapani Salt Flats

Take a short 15-minute drive to Trapani’s salt pans for an immersive experience in the rich history of the city’s salt production. Your guided tour starts at the Mulino Maria Stella, where you’ll learn about the salt-making process. And remember to keep your eyes peeled for nesting flamingos around the salt flats.

Bonus Activity: Day Trip to Erice

If you have some more time, take a day trip to Erice — one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Italy . This historic hilltop village has about 60 churches, a cathedral, and two castes, so there’s a lot to see and do. You’ll also get stunning aerial views of Trapani.

The drive to Palermo city center is 1 hour 25 minutes.

Palermo is the island’s bustling capital. We recommend visiting on day 2 so you can unwind a little bit in Trapani and get those first few amazing sea views before launching into the city.

Where to Stay in Palermo

Rocco Forte Villa Igiea  

A renovated Art Nouveau palazzo overlooking the gulf or Palermo – luxury 5-star family-run hotel. 

Take a Walking Tour Around Palermo

There’s so much to see and do in Palermo. But, like many cities in Europe , a great place to start exploring the city is its historic city center. The best way to explore Palermo is by getting lost in its endless walkable passages as you eat your way through the city’s food hotspots.

Take a street food walking tour and explore Palermo’s backstreet markets and food stalls serving local delicacies. You’ll also visit open-air markets like Mercato di Capo and Vucciria Market, where you can enjoy a tasty lunch.

If you don’t have much time to explore Palermo on foot, you can take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour and see top attractions in half the time.

Admire Medieval Architecture at Quattro Canti and Piazza Pretoria

Learn about Palermo’s history through its stunning medieval architecture and bustling squares. Getting an up-close look at the Quattro Canti intersection is a must. Once you’re done marveling at the Quattro Canti, head over to the adjacent Piazza Pretoria.

Here you’ll find a massive structure named Fontana Pretoria , dominating the square with its 436-foot circumference and a towering 39-foot height. The fountain boasts several statues of nude nymphs, tritons, and river gods – which earned it the nickname “Fountain of Shame”.

Visit the Cattedrale di Palermi and Norman Palace

Your next stops are the Cattedrale di Palermo and Norman Palace , where you get a closer look at the architectural prowess of ancient Silicians. If you’d like to see more, take this markets and monuments walking tour and discover other iconic monuments like Teatro Massimo .

The drive to Cefalu is one hour.

The next city on your Sicily itinerary is another gorgeous coastal town – Cefalù. This vibrant old town has a lot to offer, from beautiful sandy beaches to casual restaurants dotted along winding medieval streets and, of course, the unmissable Norman Cathedral.

To cut down on the amount of times you need to change hotel, I would recommend just spending the day in Cefalu and moving on to Taormina for your overnight.

Hike to Castello di Cefalù

Kick off day four of your Sicily itinerary by taking a two-mile hike to Castello di Cefalù. The trail takes you up Rocca di Cefalù, where you’ll find several prehistoric ruins like the Temple of Diana and Church of St. Anna, built in the 5th and 10th centuries, respectively. While you’re here, take some time to enjoy the panoramic views of Cefalù from above.

Admire the Duomo di Cefalù

Once you’ve seen the city from a bird’s eye perspective, make your way to the Duomo di Cefalù. This towering Roman Catholic cathedral makes part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale. Inside the basilica, you’ll spot incredible 12th-century religious mosaics and ornate frescoes.

Explore the Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino

Before you call it a day, take some time to explore a historical laundry house that dates back to the 15th century. This medieval wash house was used by locals well into the 20th century. Walking through the washhouse, you’ll get a glimpse of medieval life in Sicily and how inhabitants used the stone wash basins and cast-iron spouts to do their laundry.

Taormina is one of the popular cities on Sicily’s east coast. The stunning hilltop town also has dramatic backdrops of Mount Etna and its own Greek-Roman Theater. But there are lots of other things to do in Taormina , and you’ll find plenty of charming spots dotted across the city’s medieval cobblestoned streets.

Where to Stay in Taormina

There’s no better place to stay than the  Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , with direct views of Mount Etna.

Walk Around Teatro Antico di Taormina

The ancient theater of Taormina was first built by the Greeks in the third century and later reconstructed and enlarged by the Romans. This 5,400-seater theater was initially built for musicals and performances, and it was turned into a stadium for gladiator games. 

What makes Teatro Antico di Taormina a spectacular feature in the city is its incredible views of the Calabrian Coast and Sicily’s Ionian Coast – so don’t miss out on this attraction.

One of the biggest tourist draws to Sicily is Mount Etna, so it’s only right that you take a hike up the famous peak. Mount Etna is a stratovolcano known for its incredible level of activity; the volcano has been erupting for over 2,700 years. 

A fantastic way to see this monumental landmark is by taking a half-day tour to Mount Ena, where an expert guide will take you through the volcano’s ancient craters and lava flow cave. Your day trip also included a special wine tasting and an incredible view. If you want to hike up to the summit of the crater, this tour is for you.

Mt Etna is home to some of the best wineries in Sicily, so a wine-tasting trip should be on the cards. Take this small group food and wine tour, tasting local delicacies in villages in and around Mount Etna’s countryside. Pick up is from Taormina, so you don’t have to change hotels for this trip.

Day 5: Catania

Catania is the second-largest city on the island. This ancient port city sits at the base of Mount Etna and is abundant with culture, architecture, and bustling markets.

For me, it’s only really necessary to visit one of the cities, so if you’ve already planned to visit Palermo, you can skip Catania, or vice versa. Not because Catania isn’t great, it is. I just think the smaller towns are more “real Sicily” and should be prioritized.

Where to Stay in Catania

With tastefully decorated rooms and high-end amenities and facilities, the  Libe rt y Hotel  is one of the best in the city.

Take a Walking Tour Around Catania

Take a guided tour through Catania to see the city’s gorgeous medieval architecture and learn about its history and culture from a local. During your tour, you’ll get to see highlights such as the Ursino Castle, the vibrant scalinata Alessi, La Pescheria, and lots of piazzas.  

Tour the Massimo Theater

The Massimo Theater is the biggest opera house in Italy and one of the largest in Europe . This gorgeous 1,387-seater theater is known for its perfect acoustics, and you can give them a try during your guided tour of the Neoclassical building. You also get to tour the Valsecchi art collection in the historic Palazzo Butera. 

Admire the Frescoes at Palazzo Biscari

If you’re an art lover, visiting Palazzo Biscari should be your favorite thing on this Sicily itinerary. This Baroque palace is the most private in Catania, boasting jaw-dropping interiors from wall to ceiling. Take a guided tour of Palazzo Biscari and marvel at its gorgeous frescoes, paintings, overdoors, and stunning terracotta floors.

Visit the Catania Fish Market

Immerse yourself in Catania’s everyday life by visiting the local fish market. This seafood market has lots of enthusiastic fishmongers selling the day’s catch under colorful umbrellas. To get here, you’ll climb a series of stairs made of volcanic rock – how cool is that?

Explore Catania’s Roman Architecture

Catania is one of the first Sicilian cities to fall to the Romans in 263 BC, so it has a lot of historical monuments from that era. A great way to see the legacy of the Romans and their architecture is by exploring its relics dotted across the city.

Start at the Greek-Roman Theater, where you’ll find two ancient open-air arc Roman theaters. The larger theater was designed to accommodate 7,000 spectators and had marble columns. On the west end, you’ll find the Odeon theater, built for 1,500 people.

Your next stop is the Roman Amphitheater of Catania in the historic Piazza Stesicoro. While most of the ruins lie under the four adjoining streets, the amphitheater was originally built to accommodate 15,000 spectators and is one of the largest in the Roman world.

Sicily Travel Itinerary Day 7: Syracuse

Syracuse is a historic town sitting along the Ionian Coast. This stunning medieval city boasts an abundance of Greek and Roman architecture and amphitheaters, and it’s said to be the birthplace of the famous Archimedes – a Greek engineer, mathematician, and inventor.

Where to Stay in Syracuse

The Caportigia Boutique Hotel  is a 5-star hotel with an excellent location, and luxurious suites with breathtaking views.

Explore Neapolis Archaeological Park

In the Archaeological Park Neapolis, you’ll find plenty of ancient ruins to admire. The complex comprises marvelous Roman and Greek architecture. You can take a tour of Neapolis Archaeological Park and admire its Roman Amphitheater, Teatro Greco, and the Ear of Dionysius –  a limestone cave formed like a human ear.

Visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi

If you want to dive deeper into Syracuse’s history, visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi for a front-row seat to the most extensive archeological museums in Sicily. Here, you’ll see a large collection of fossils and figurines, including Titian’s Venus Anadyomene.

Walk the Grounds at the Temple of Apollo

Dating back as far as the sixth century, the Temple of Apollo sits adjacent to Piazza Pancali. These ancient ruins are one of the most important Greek monuments in Sicily. This Doric temple is considered a pioneer in Greek architecture, as it displays a transition from building with wood to using stone. 

Bonus Activity: Marvel at the Arethusa Spring

If you have some time to spare before the end of your Sicily itinerary, take a stroll down to the Arethusa Spring – a natural spring with a mythical story. This is a great place to sit and recollect all the memories you’ve made on this trip. 

How to Spend One Week in Sicily | Wrapped Up

Italy is home to some of the best well-preserved medieval towns in Europe , and Sicily has plenty of them. The country’s popular regions like Tuscany and Lazio may get the most attraction from travelers, but Sicily is a must-visit.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

2 thoughts on “ The Perfect Sicily Itinerary: How to Spend 5-7 Days ”

Thank you for a great article. We go every year to Sicily. 7 days is such a tease. We go for 2 weeks at a time and still is not enough. What is interesting is no one writes about Marsala. It is a tranquil oasis that seems to be forgotten. Grazie mille per il tuo articulo

Yeah 7 days is definitely not enough! There is just so much to see there and driving takes up so much of the time.

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Delightfully Italy

The insider's Italy travel guide for independent travelers

Perfect 7 days Sicily itinerary, by car or by train

Explore sicily with this optimized 7 days sicily itinerary. get an answer to your questions about sicily with my sicily travel guide and discover sicily top sights..

This 7 days Sicily itinerary gives you the possibility of discovering Sicily essentials in just one week. You will explore gorgeous Palermo, have a wine tasting in Erice, learn about salt-pans in Marsala, uncover ancient Greek temples in Agrigento, wander the ancient streets of Syracusa, climb the Etna Volcano and unwind in gorgeous Taormina. And, of course, enjoy the gorgeous and unique culture and gastronomy of this beautiful Island!

Sicily is still an off the beaten path destination for mainstream touristic flows, who focus on “the continent”. But if you love Italy culture, sights and life style, you simply can’t miss Sicily. A visit to Sicily could actually be a trip on its own, as well as a second or third visit to Italy.

So happy Sicily itinerary!

Do you feel uncomfortable planning your Sicily trip on your own? No problem, I’m here to help! Just have a look at my Italy Travel Advice page!

Page Content

• Why should you come to Sicily?

How many days do you need to visit Sicily?

How do you get to sicily, what is the best time to go to sicily, can you visit sicily without a car, day to day sicily itinerary, sicily travel guide, why should you come to sicily.

Sicily is simply gorgeous, and one of the most peculiar Italian regions in terms of history, sights and culture. Here you can find remains of Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, French civilization. All left their mark and helped carve a unique culture and mindset, that you wont find anywhere else in Italy. So here are the main reasons in my view to come to Sicily.

1 – Culture and sights : in Sicily you will find the best preserved ancient Greek temples and theaters,  amazing Roman and Byzantine mosaics, medieval palaces and  churches, Arabic monument, Barocco palaces… and much more!

Sicilian nature is no less impressive: untouched countryside, gorgeous coasts, hidden gorges and lakes, and the highest active volcano in Europe won’t disappoint your hunger for beautiful and instagrammable views.

2 – True Italy : If you are hungry about the “real Italy”, you are likely to discover it here, in the many hamlets suspended in time, where old traditions and habits are still very present in day to day life. Something you could still find also in the larger city, especially in the traditional markets such as Palermo’s Vucciria or the ancient fish market in Catania. And it’s not uncommon at all to get caught in one of the many procession to honor local saints.

3 – Food and wine : thanks to its peculiar history, Sicily has developed a unique cuisine, mixing continental and Arabic tastes and fragrances, mostly based on fish and sea food. Thanks to the Sicilian sun and the fertile soils, Sicilian wines are among the best in Italy. Make sure you taste the one produced from the Etna volcano grapes, they have an unique mineral flavor.

4 – Beaches and islands :  if you like beaches and sea, Sicily won’t disappoint you. Many gorgeous beaches here, like the Caribbean beach in San Vito lo Capo, and gorgeous islands such as the Aeolians, Lampedusa and Favignana. You could easily dedicate at least one week only to Sicilian beaches!

5 – Climate : being a Southern region, Sicily is extremely enjoyable all year round (well, maybe a little hot in July and August). It’s a perfect destination from March to May and from September to early October. During these months you could have the island to yourself!

Sicily is also getting more and more popular as a Christmas destination, due to the mild weather and the many Christmas traditions.

6 – Dolce vita : Sicily is a laid down, relaxed place. The perfect destination to take your time, unwind while sipping a local wine in a café, meeting locals, taste local food,  read a book on a beach and  enjoy your time.  By the way, Sicily prices are much lower than in Central and Northern Italy.

That’s probably the weirdest question, since, like in most of Italy, you could probably spend one or to months on the island and still want more. Unfortunately most of us don’t have all that time so here are some options.

• 3-4 days: this is the minimum stay length in my view, barely sufficient to fly into Catania and visit Siracusa and Taormina. It could be a short but rewarding extention to a 2 weeks trip to mainland Italy
• 1 week: in seven days  you can have a good glimpse of Sicily, and enjoy the essentials. You will likely not have much time to explore the islands and the northern part of the island (Cefalù). This is the idea behind this 7 days Sicily itinerary.
• 10 days: if you can add 3 days to your mainstream Sicily itinerary, you could dedicate time to explore the islands, with a day trip to Favignana from Trapani and a day trip / overnight stay to the Aeolian islands from Milazzo.
• 14 days: in 2 weeks you can explore the entire island, including the center. Cefalu and Piazza Armerina (amazing Roman mosaics) could be included in your tour. You can spend more time in the single places or dedicate a whole week to relax on an island.

The official Italian Tourism office site could give you some additional clue to plan your trip.

Low coast airlines, such as Easy Jet, Ryan Air, Volotea and similar connect Sicily with  most of the large Italian cities. If you reserve well in advance and avoid peak periods, you could find surprisingly low air fares.

You can fly to Palermo or to Catania, an “open jaws” flight plan (such as: landing in Palermo and flying back from Catania) would allow you to optimize your itinerary.

In case you wish to visit the Aeolian islands, an interesting option could be to travel from Naples by boat, either by hydrofoil (6 hours) or by night boat, a very convenient solution if you are short of time.

The best time to go to Sicily is Spring (March-May) and Fall (September – October). During these months you could have the island all for yourself, with a lot of accommodation options and fairly low rates.

Temperature is mild and, especially in September and October, you can easily swim at sea, the water keeps pleasantly warm.

June and Beginning of July are also an option, perfect for beach stay even though more crowded.

Do avoid July and August, high season and very hot temperatures, This is when Italians go on holidays, and all the beaches are awfully crowded.

Yes you can, even though you would get much more flexibility with your own car. That said, you can travel in most of the main places by train and by bus.

The main trains you could consider with are:

• Parlemo – Cefalu (1:00 hour)Your 7 days Sicily itinerary continues with
• Palermo – Catania (3:30  hours)
• Siracusa – Catania (1:10 hours)
• Catania – Taormina (0:34 hours)

You can have a look at the Trenitalia web site for schedules and reservations.

Local buses are also convenient, such as on the lines:

•  Palermo – Siracusa (3:30 hours)
• Siracusa – Noto (0:55 hours)

Here is the web adress of one of teh main local bus companies, Etna Trasporti.

In case you decide to use public transports to visit Sicily, add a couple of days to this 7 days Sicily itinerary to accommodate trains and buses schedules.

If you want to treat yourself,  you could also get a private driver to drive you around the whole itinerary, or just some parts of it.

Sicily itinerary day one: land in Palermo, Palermo sight Seeing

Your 7 days Sicily itinerary starts with Palermo, one of the most interesting and history rich towns in Italy.  Palermo, with its culture, history, food and energetic atmosphere has become a popular destination, full of  charm.

The Phoenicians founded Palermo as a trade port in 700 BC, and a long string of rulers followed. Carthage was the first to conquer it, followed by the Romans, who named it Panhormus. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Vandals took over, followed by Arabian rulers who turned Sicily in to an emirate. Palermo transformed in to a magical city with mosques, minarets and markets. It is said that its beauty measured up well with Cordoba and Cairo.

During the crusades, the city’s wealth was discovered by the Normans who conquered the city, but continued building on the Arabian legacy of tolerance and enlightenment. That era is known as “the Golden Years”.

Today you discover a city with an exciting mix of medieval areas where washing is still hung on lines between buildings to elegant residential districts with palm trees and palatial villas.

You could spend days wandering in Palermo ancient streets, discovering something new and exciting at each road turn. In one day, make sure you don’t miss the cathedral, the Palazzo dei Normanni and the beautiful mosaics in the Capppella Palatina, the Vucciria market,  the beautiful Santa Caterina Church, the spectacular Piazza Pretoria and the remains of the Santa Maria dello Spasimo church. For a late evening on the beach, and to eat delicious food dishes, head to the Mondello beach, a few Km from Palermo. .

Sicily itinerary day two: Monreale e San vito lo Capo

Close to Palermo, Monreale hosts one of the most amazing Sicilian Jewels: Monreale cathedral and its byzantine mosaics.

The Cathedral of Monreale is one of the most beautiful churches in all of Sicily, a masterpiece of Byzantine art not to be missed, with its finest mosaics famous throughout the world and more than 1800 kg of pure gold used to tell the story of Christianity. Since July 2015 it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, along with the Arab-Norman Palermo circuit.

These are the larger byzantine mosaics in Italy, even larger than the San Marco ones in Venice.

Legend says that in 1171 the Norman king William II, very devoted to the Madonna, was seized with sudden fatigue during a hunt and fell asleep under a carob tree. That sleep, besides restoring his tired limbs, was the source of an incredible revelation. In fact the Madonna appeared to him in a dream and revealed to him that right under that tree there was a treasure of inestimable value. When he woke up the king had the tree cut down, he dug deeply and when he was found the gold decided to have a church built in honor of the Madonna.

Leaving Monreale and driving west, you will get in a couple of hours to one of the most beautiful beaches of mainland Sicily: San Vito lo Capo.

San Vito lo Capo is renowned not for its Caribbean sea, but also to be the main place to eat the famous Cous Cous alla Trapanese, a local fish adaptation of the Arab cous cous dish. If you plan to be in Sicily end of September, don’t miss the Cous Cous festival , which takes place every year in San vito lo Capo.

Sicily itinerary day three: Marsala salt pans, the Valley of the temples and Ragusa

Your 7 days Sicily itinerary continues with the Marsala salt pans. They are among the largest in Europe and are a really amazing place to visit, especially if you are travelling with kids.

The Saline (salt pans) reserve extends between Trapani and Paceco and comprises a coastal strip of almost 1000 hectares. Much of the reserve, consists of privately owned salt pans where salt is extracted according to traditional techniques in use for centuries.

The many wind mills and the scattered salt mounds make the landscape even more impressive. July to September are the best months to visit, but the salt pans can be accessed all year round.  As the sun sets behind the Egadi Islands, the entire landscape gets colored in red, orange and yellow in contrast to the white of the salt, offering a magical and unforgettable view.

When you are done with Marsala salt pans, proceed to Agrigento, where you will be able to admire the amazing Valle dei Templi.

The Valle dei Templi is one of the most extensive, representative and best preserved archaeological sites of classical Greek civilization, granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997.

The archaeological area corresponds to the remains of the ancient Akragas, the original nucleus of modern Agrigento. Along a long rocky scarp, chosen as the southern limit of the town, are still sited the great Doric temples dedicated to the gods.

Within the area of the ancient city there is also the Pietro Griffo Regional Archaeological Museum, which houses over 5.000 finds that illustrate the history of the territory from prehistory to the end of the Greco-Roman age.

Sicily itinerary day four: Noto and Siracusa

A UNESCO Heritage site, Noto is a destination not to be missed in your Sicily tour.

The original town (“Noto Antica”) was completely destroyed by the terrible 1693 earthquake (you can still visit its fascinating ruins, a few Kilometers away from the “modern” Noto).

Noto was then rebuilt from scratch, in the sublime elegance, originality and fantasy of the Sicilian Baroque style.

Noto is very easy to visit. Simply wander the length of the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, along which many of Noto’s most representative buildings stand. And if you feel lazy in a hot Sicilian summer day, have a tourist ride in a delightful APE (typical Italian motorized tricycle).

When you are done with Noto, drive to Siracusa, one of the highlights of your 7 days Sicily Itinerary.

Siracusa is an ancient town on the sea, which was of immense importance as Greek Syracuse. It has a superb archaeological zone and a lovely historic center on the island of Ortigia. This is where I suggest you to spend the afternoon.

Much of the island’s charm lies in wandering down narrow medieval lanes, past romantically-crumbling – or lovingly-restored – Baroque palaces and churches.

To head straight to Ortigia’s most attractive piazza, turn right and head for Via Cavour (which continues as Via Landolina), a narrow thoroughfare lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. At its end lies Piazza Duomo, an elliptical open space lined with harmonious and impressive buildings. Don’t miss the cathedral, built around an ancient Greek temple!

For a complete overview of the many things to do and to see in Noto and in Siracusa, have a look at my posts: Siracusa: Sicily at its best and Noto: Sicily baroque perfection

Sicily itinerary day five: Siracusa, Etna Volcano and Taormina

Wake up early and visit the archaelogical park with the impressive Greek and Roman remains. The Greek theater is particularly impressive and is still used to perform ancient Greek tragedies. If you are a fan of ancient Greece, the local archaeological museum is worth a visit.

Also interesting is the  deep quarry to the east of the theater called the Latomia del Paradiso (Paradise Quarry) It’s a peaceful and green spot, filled with vegetation and lemon trees. The most famous sight here is the huge cave called the Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio).

When you have completed your visit, take your car and drive towards the mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe and in winter you can actually ski on top of it! You can just drive the road around it, or spend 3-4 hours to climb on top of it, a really exciting experience. In this post you can read more about mount Etna .

End your day indulging in Taormina main square, with a fantastic view on the Mediterranean sea.

Sicily itinerary day six: full day in Taormina

The overwhelming feeling of being on such a high ground, the breathtaking panorama and the fusion of nature and art at its best have made Taormina an exclusive travel destination. And definitely one of the highlights of your 7 days in Sicily itinerary!

A former Greek settlement, the city was then conquered by Romans and Byzantines and the splendor of that golden Era has lasted throughout the years. Here in fact, the beauty of the nature has been enhanced by human hands and culminated in the Greek Amphitheater which dominates the scenes.

The vibrant center of the city is Piazza IX Aprile, beautifully adorned by the 17th century Sant Agostino and San Giuseppe´s churches; once you cross Porta di Mezzo (literally “middle door”), you will enter the ancient part of the city where the Clock Tower was erected over 300 years ago.

The quaint Corso Umberto I is the main road that runs through the whole city, which, with a myriad of shops and restaurants, will lead you from the city center to Porta Catania and the magnificent Badia Vecchia.

Taormina is not only a captivating historical site – it’s beautiful coastal line, its marine grottoes and faraglioni (rocks) have enchanted numerous generations and they are only a cable way ride away from the city center.

The medieval town can probably be walked within one day and, despite its tiny area, this little gem located on the East coast of Sicily has a unique charm that has an enchanting force on travelers.

The lovely historical center with its white, tiny houses, the beautiful Corso Umberto I with its shops and traditional Sicilian restaurants, the crystal water beaches and the numerous solutions for a day trip in the Sicilian surroundings are some of the ingredients that make the so called “pearl” of the Ionic Sea so unique and charming.

And of course, last but not least, the Greek theater and it’s amazing view on the Etna volcano, arguably one of the most iconic Italy views.

For a complete overview of the many things to do and to see in Taormina, have a look at my posts: Taormina in one day.

Sicily itinerary day 7: Catania and flight to your next destination

Catania, like other Sicilian cities, it has been heavily influenced by its rulers – Romans, Arabs, and Normans to name a few. The largest impact came from its neighbor, the volcano Etna – when it erupted in 1669 it devastated the city and killed 12,000 inhabitants. Catania was rebuilt in the Baroque style preserved to this day, complete with large boulevards and squares.

Over the last few years, tourism has become one of the biggest sources of revenue. With the sixth largest airport in Italy, Catania is a natural hub for tourists travelling to the island’s east coast. It is easy to take day trips from here to the spectacular Mount Etna, to the ceramics centre of Caltagirone, and to the picturesque mountain villages like Randozza and Linguaglossa.

Catania boasts a plethora of incredible cultural sights. Pay a visit to Piazza del Duomo, marvel at the splendid Catania Cathedral, and walk down the historic Via dei Crociferi (named a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Catania airport is just a few kilometers from the town. Give back your car and fly towards your next destination.

Enjoy Sicily!

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14-Day Sicily Itinerary: An Epic Sicily Road Trip (+map)

Planning a two week Sicily road trip itinerary and looking for the most interesting places to visit, things to do, and the best route to take? I got you covered with my detailed 14 day Sicily itinerary (extendable to 16 days).

Although it is impossible to see absolutely everything on the biggest Italian island in just a couple of weeks or even one month, the good news is that two weeks in Sicily by car is enough time to visit different parts of the island . In just a couple of weeks, you can drive the perimeter of the island from west to east and north to south and see the best of Sicily’s natural and historical sights, and experience intriguing Sicilian culture .

From pristine Sicilian beaches and postcard-perfect coastal towns like Cefalù to the greatest baroque architecture of Val di Noto, chaotic but charming streets of Palermo, climbing the smoking Etna volcano, and wandering back in time through the alleyways of mysterious medieval villages in Madonie mountains, just to name a few highlights and must-visit places included to this two-week road trip in Sicily route .

Moreover, to help you easily plan an unforgettable trip, besides the best places to visit in Sicily and fantastic things to do , I also include driving distances and times , suggestions for accommodation, and great places to eat in each location. I also share some useful miscellaneous tips about traveling in Sicily.

Following my ultimate Sicily in 2 weeks itinerary, you will discover not only popular places but also many wonderful hidden gems where the authentic Sicilian experience unfolds.

Keep on reading to find out how to visit Sicily in two weeks and see the best of this Italian island!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

14-day Sicily itinerary

2 weeks in sicily road trip itinerary overview (14-16 days).

• DAY 1 Catania
• DAY 2 Agira and Gagliano Castelferrato
• DAY 3 Gangi (Madonie mountains)
• DAY 4 Cefalù
• DAY 5-6 Palermo
• DAY 7-8 Castellammare dell Golfo and Zingaro Nature reserve
• DAY 9 Favignana island
• DAY 10-11 Trapani
• DAY 12- 13 Ragusa (with an optional stop at Valley of Temples) and Modica
• DAY 14 Syracuse
• DAY 15 Etna hike (with an optional afternoon in Taormina)
• DAY 16 Catania (flight day)

Total distance: approx. 1158 km (720 miles)

Time on the road: approx. 18.5 hrs

Travel essentials for 2 weeks in Sicily, Italy

• My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Sicily is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Sicily from your location.
• Sleep: find your perfect accommodation in Sicily on Booking.com .
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe.

6 useful things to know before heading on a road trip to Sicily

1. how many days do you need to see the entire island of sicily.

You need at least 10 days to cover the full perimeter of Sicily at a quite fast pace. However, the reasonable amount would be a minimum of 14 days to see the highlights of Sicily at a medium pace, spending 1, 2, or 3 nights in each place of interest. Ideally, I would recommend 3 weeks to even a month for a slow-paced trip. This would allow exploring not only the mainland of Sicily but also include several days of island hopping on Aeolian islands.

2. What is the best way to get around Sicily?

The best and easiest way to independently explore Sicily is by car. Public transport connects bigger cities like Palermo, Catania, Syracuse, Agrigento, and Trapani. However, getting to the smaller towns, the transportation is not as frequent, and commuting time is much slower than by a car. Also, some wonderful mountain villages or secluded beaches are only accessible by private transport.

Therefore, renting a car for a trip to Sicily was a no-brainer for us. It also allows moving around at your own pace.

I found the best car rental prices for my road trip in Sicily with DiscoverCars.

Rent a Car in Sicily

Look for the best rates for your rental car at Discovercars.

RELATED READS: If you are wondering, what is it like to drive in Sicily , you may want to read my post about it here .

3. How long does it take to drive around Sicily?

Just to give you a rough idea of the driving times in Sicily, it takes approximately 3-4 hours to tackle around 300 km from East to West.

For example, Trapani to Catania is 3.5 hours drive (315 KM), and similarly, Palermo to Syracuse is 3 hours drive covering 260 KM. Going into the hinterland of Sicily may take around 1-2 hours from the coast, depending on the exact location. In general, driving in central Sicily through the mountain villages is slower than touring the main roads around the coast.

However, you won’t be driving long distances on this road trip every single day. In fact, there is only one day on this itinerary that requires a very long drive from Trapani to Ragusa with a stop in between.

4. Getting to Sicily

There are 3 main international airports in Sicily. You will most certainly land at one of them. They are located in Trapani in the West, Catania in the East, and Palermo (capital city of Sicily) in the North West.

It is also possible to reach Sicily by ferry. One of the main ports connecting Sicily to the mainland of Italy is Messina (the eastern part). This would be an entry point for those of you traveling by road from Southern Italy (as we did).

Also, there is a long-distance ferry from Napoli and Salerno which takes around 11 hours to reach Sicily at the port of Palermo.

5. Where should I go- East or West Sicily?

Your entry point to Sicily and the duration of your stay will most likely determine which part of the island you will choose to explore.

If you have anything less than 10 days to spare, focus either just on the Eastern or the Western part of the island. That being said, if you land in Catania, your best bet is to explore the eastern and southeastern parts of Sicily. On another hand, if you are landing in Palermo or Trapani, with limited time in mind, focus on the west and northwest side of the island. In this case, you will also have an option to add a day trip to Egadian islands which are just a short 30min ride by ferry from Trapani.

If you have a couple of weeks or more, you can then aim to tour the whole island.

• Related reads: 30+ Useful Sicily Travel Tips .

6. What is the best time to visit Sicily?

The best time to visit Sicily is from the end of April-May and September to the beginning of October. These months are the shoulder season for traveling in Sicily.

You can expect pleasant temperatures on the coast and very few tourists. Have in mind that the water in May can still be a little chilly but it is already suitable to swim. Meanwhile, the temperature in the mountains can drop as low as 8 degrees Celsius, so plan to take some layers.

In September, on another hand, water temperatures are perfect, keeping the warmth accumulated during the summer heat. Also, the national Italian holiday season (which is in August) is already over, so crowds are fewer and accommodation prices are lower.

I would suggest avoiding July and August if you can as those are the most expensive and busy months to travel in Sicily.

The off-season would be suitable for those of you who do not care about swimming and just want to enjoy Sicilian culture and food.

How much does it cost to travel in Sicily?

These are the main expenses for traveling around Sicily. The estimates are based on this 14-16 days road trip route, taking into account car rental, petrol, accommodation, food, and attractions.

• Petrol cost for two weeks- 185 EUR- based on the estimated distance of this route and petrol consumption of 8 L per 100 KM, with petrol price averaging at 2 EUR/L. (in Italy petrol prices range from 1.8 EUR to 2.2 EUR)
• Accommodation cos t – 50 EUR-150 EUR per night for 2 people.
• Car rental cost – 20 EUR per day (budget, but can be double or even more if booked last minute).
• Dinner (eating out)- 20-30 EUR per person with starter and main, and one drink.
• Pizza (any time of the day)- 5-12 EUR per pizza (depending on the place).
• Coffee- 1EUR for an espresso, 1.5EUR-2 EUR for a cappuccino or latte macchiato.
• Dolce (pastries)- 1EUR-3EUR per pastry.
• Soft drinks- 2 EUR for sparkling water or soft drinks like coca-cola at a bar/restaurant.
• Alcohol – 3-7 EUR for a glass of wine or an Aperol spritz.
• Museums/Churches – 3EUR-15EUR per entrance (the most we paid for the entrance was at Norman Palace in Palermo and Monreale Cathedral in Monreale).

The estimated average daily spending per person (based on a trip for 2 people) is around 110 EUR per day . Definitely, the cost can be higher or lower. The factor that can hugely influence the budget is accommodation and daily meals. The cost of petrol is more or less fixed, car rental is whatever the best deal you can get .

Our 2-week Sicily Road Trip Route Map

About this 2-week Sicily itinerary (14-16 days)

This itinerary for a 2-week road trip in Sicily is a loop starting and ending in Catania. Although originally, we travelled to Sicily from the South of Italy, crossing the strait of Messina from Villa San Giovani by ferry (with a car).

My Sicily itinerary is a bit unconventional compared to what you may find on other blogs. It focuses more on the off-the-beaten path places around the island rather than ticking off all the tourist hotspots. However, I still have included several popular and well-known destinations such as Cefalu seaside town, or the capital Palermo, for example.  

Following this route, in 14 days we visited a selection of amazing places in the east, north, west, and south of Sicily . At each destination, we spent 1 or 2 nights, depending on how many points of interest were in the area. Each day we tried to limit driving time to a couple of hours only. However, a couple of days are required to be on the road longer. Nonetheless, we made sure to have some nice pit stops along the way.

For a dynamic trip in Sicily experience, I included a mix of everything: beaches and mountains, nature reserves as well as atmospheric medieval hilltop towns, colorful markets, and cultural sights featuring the finest baroque architecture. That being said, it is a must to have a car to reach some of the locations on this Sicily road trip route.

At a glimpse at my 2-week itinerary, you may notice that some of the most popular touristic hotspots like Taormina, or Valley of Temples in Agrigento are not included (even though you can find them recommended in almost every blog and travel guide).

The reason behind my choice is that I prioritized more local experience, and exploring beyond the most famous attractions. If I had more time in Sicily, I might have stopped at some of those touristy places too.

Nonetheless, every traveler has different interests and preferences. Therefore, I still have mentioned the most popular sights in Sicily that you could add to your itinerary.

We traveled during the second and third week of May which proved to be a perfect time before the busy tourist season takes full swing.

Sicily in 2 weeks: road trip itinerary day by day

Day 1: catania (1 night).

If you land in Catania, your Sicily journey starts and ends in the second biggest town of Sicily. If you are not planning to spend more than one night in Catania at the beginning of your trip, I recommend immediately picking up your rental car at Catania airport (also returning it to the same airport will save a huge amount on your car rental costs).

In case you decide to allocate more time in Catania and are not planning on driving outside the city, then you can pick up your car later. I also recommend doing it at the airport as it is cheaper than in the city.

Nonetheless, having limited time in Sicily, I suggest spending a day in Catania itself for the main sights as there are so many more other interesting things to see in Sicily.

THINGS TO DO IN CATANIA

Catania is the second biggest city in Sicily (after the capital Palermo). Originally founded by Greeks in 729 BC, and later conquered by Romans around 250 BC, Catania, just like all of Sicily, underwent numerous conquests. Besides Greeks and Romans, Normans, Arabs, Byzantines, and Spaniards passed by leaving their footsteps.

As if that was not enough challenge, in the middle ages, the city was destroyed by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and then rebuilt in Baroque architecture style in the 18 th century.

Today Catania is a bustling town where you can experience an authentic urban lifestyle of Sicily, and admire some of the most impressive architecture.

Top tip: avoid driving in Catania. The town is walkable. Leave your car at the accommodation and go for a “passeggiata” (a nice stroll around the town in Italian).

Main things to do and see in Catania- quick list:

• Start from Piazza del Duomo (with the famous elephant fountain) and the Duomo di Catania (Catania Cathedral)
• Stop by at Pescheria- a local fish market, just behind the Piazza del Duomo. This particular activity would be interesting for street photographers. Note that it is quite a stinky and bloody experience. The fish market is open daily in the mornings (except on weekends).
• Take Via Etnea- a famous street from where you can see the famous Etna volcano in the background.
• Head to Piazza dell’Universita and explore pallazo dell’Universita and pallazo San Guiliano- two famous palaces in Catania
• If you still have more time, visit Villa Bellini Gardens characterized by its many fountains.
• Finally, if you love peeking into churches, then head to Via Crociferi  to see  the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena .

If you prefer some guidance when visiting cities, then it is worth checking this Catania Walking Tour , or if you are a food lover, the Food tour of Catania by night offers some off-the-beaten path experiences.

WHERE TO STAY IN CATANIA?

There is no shortage of fantastic accommodation choices in Catania. After doing some research, I shortlisted the following B&B’s and apartments

Casa Verdi- House for Travelers – 9.7/10-beautiful rooms and dorms for travelers on a budget, 23 EUR/ 24.5 USD. Find out more HERE .

Living Suite Catania Pacini – 10/10- beautifully decorated rooms with ornamental tiles, featuring a private balcony. Central location close to Piazza del Duomo and other points of interest in Catania. 57 EUR / 62 USD per night. Click HERE for more info.

Minimal Chich Teatro Massimo Bellini – 10/10- as the name suggests this is a contemporary chic duplex apartment featuring an elevated bedroom accessible by a staircase, including a washing machine (a rare find), and is situated in the historic center of Catania. 96 EUR/103 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

Gorgeous Flat with Opera view- 10/10- truly pretty authentic one-bedroom apartment in a historic building in the heart of Catania. 152 EUR/ 163 USD. Find out more HERE .

Le Suited Del Duomo -9.3/10- right in the Piazza del Duomo, modern rooms with spa bath, 132 EUR/ 141 USD. Click HERE to book.

WHERE TO EAT IN CATANIA

When in Catania, stop by at Comis Ice Café for a fantastic gelato, pistachio granita, and awesome cannoli.

If you love to eat fish, Fishiaria restaurant has great reviews and yummy-looking dishes.

DAY 2: Agira and  Gagliano Castelferrato (overnight in Agira)

• Driving distance:  approx. 85 KM (53 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR 20 MIN
• Stops:  Gagliano Castelferrato

Gagliano Castelferrato

On the second day, head directly to the heart of Sicily following scenic roads with mount Etna views along the way. When I was looking for less explored places in Sicily, I have come across a magical town in Enna province called Gagliano Castelferrato (iron castle). Guarded by the craggy rock, the ancient town is said to be founded in 1900 BC, originally named Galaria.

Gagliano Castelferrato is not yet under the tourists’ radar but it has already been named one of the most beautiful villages in Italy ( Borghi più belli d’Italia ). Indeed, the name is well deserved taking into account the intriguing setup of the town that features a Gothic town center, an ancient rock castle, and splendid panoramic mountain views all around.

Nestled at the foothills of the imposing rock and surrounded by lush green valleys, Gagliano Castelferrato reminds me of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa in the Basilicata region of South Italy.

A few things you can do in this small gorgeous mountain town of Sicily are to wander around its quiet streets and visit Chiesa Madre San Cataldo- the 14th-century church set atop the town with beautiful views all around.

Also, climb the Rocca Castle for even better panoramic views and a mini-workout. The ancient castle is carved directly into the rock backing up the town of Gagliano Castelferrato.

Initially, I was willing to spend a night in this magical place, however, there was no accommodation to be found. Therefore, I picked a place to sleep in the nearest town of Agira (6 KM from Gagliano Castelferrato).

Initially planned as an overnight spot, Agira turned out to be a picturesque age-old town perched atop the steep hill (mount Teja). I have to admit, we were pleasantly surprised to find out that our blindly picked mountain village is also a very charming medieval settlement boasting panoramic views of Mount Etna.

According to the legend, the village of Agira was founded before the Trojan war by Greeks in 1194 BC, and was originally called Agyrion, with the name derived from the violent Sicilian tyrant Agyris.

The lively historic town center is situated around the piazza Francesco Crispi and Parrocchia S. Antonio Da Padova church .

There are numerous churches worth visiting, including two fine Norman examples, the remains of an Arab-Byzantine fortress and a synagogue, testifying to the presence of a Jewish population several hundred years ago.

A little further away from the historic center, you can find a neighborhood of the Rocche di San Pietro which dates back to Arab times in Sicily. Called Arab Quarter, it is one of the last places in Sicily entirely attributable to Arab art.

Fun Fact: Apparently Agira was recently put back on the map due to an enormous Sicilia Outlet Village- a shopping town with over 100 boutiques dedicated to discounted fashion products from high-end brands such as Prada, Armani, Versace, and similar.

WHERE TO STAY IN AGIRA?

There are only a few accommodation options to choose from in Agira:

Talia – 9.5/10 cozy bright rooms with private bathroom and American breakfast. 72 EUR/ 77 EUR. Find out more HERE .

Case al Borgo- Agira Centre – 9.3/10 provides apartments around Agira, some with fantastic views overlooking the mountains, breakfast included. Management features the restaurant, free wi-fi, garden and a swimming pool. 89 EUR/ 95 USD. For more info click HERE .

Casa Albergo La Terza Stella – 8.4/10. We stayed here. Instead of a room as described on Booking, we got the whole one-bed apartment in the historic center of Agira. Run by a local photographer Franco (we suspect it was his own bachelor apartment) accommodation was simple but good enough for one night. A classic Italian breakfast of pastry and coffee was served at a bar downstairs. 60 EUR/64 USD. You can find out more HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN AGIRA?

Belvedere – a cheap restaurant offering local food on a terrace with fantastic panoramic views.

Bottega delle Cassatelle – a pastry shop that sells one of the best typical deserts in Sicily- Cassatelle di Agira – a pastry filled with chocolate and dried fruit. In fact, Agira town was the only place we could find this pastry and it is one of the best!

DAY 3: Gangi (1 night)

• Driving distance:  approx. 52 KM (32 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR 10 MIN
• Stops:  Sperlinga

On day 3, we make our way to one of my absolute favorite places in Sicily- a mysterious Gangi (pronounced “gan-chee”), located in the province of Palermo. Surrounded by spectacular Madonie mountains and overlooking mount Etna, the early days of Gangi are tied to the mythical Greek city of Engyon.

Named the most beautiful village in Italy , Gangi dates back to 1200 BC and was founded by Cretans. It was destroyed during the War of Sicilian Vespers and rebuilt approximately in the 1300s of this era. This is how we know the Gangi of today.

The town of Gangi raises up in layers of bright color houses glued side to side like a Lego game. While dozens of narrow cobblestone streets zigzag between the buildings leading your way up the Marone Mount, which is the base of Gangi.

Gangi is a true hidden gem filled with rich history and charm. Once a ghost village, selling abandoned homes for 1 EUR, today it seems to slowly come to life and gain a little bit of attention from a few curious travelers like myself.

At the time of our visit, Gangi was covered in fog. Although mount Etna was nowhere to be seen due to the weather, we will forever remember the mysterious atmosphere of the streets in the clouds.

RELATED READS: Check my complete guide to Gangi mountain town in Sicily, Italy .

Other places to visit near Gangi

Madonie mountains are home to many historical villages. You can easily base yourself in Gangi for a couple of nights and explore other frozen back-in-time medieval villages like Petralia Soprana, Petralia Sotanna, Polizzi Generose, or Sperlinga.  Also, Madonie mountains are a perfect place to have some wifi detox. Internet, although available in most of the accommodations, is as slow as the life of the mountain villages.

Finally, if walking up and down the steep cobblestone streets hasn’t made your legs tired yet, you can try some of the many hiking trails . There are some wonderful trekking routes of different lengths and difficulty levels in the Madonie National Park.

WHERE TO STAY IN GANGI?

B&B IL GALLETTO R. – 9.4/10- We stayed at this cozy and comfortable homestay with easy parking (important!) situated almost at the top of the town, in close proximity to the main historical parts and a couple of good local restaurants. Included breakfast was fantastic and plentiful (sweet as usual in Sicily). 50 EUR/ 54 USD per night. Click HERE for more info.

RESIDENCE VENTIMIGLIA – 9.6/10- modern and bright apartment in the heart of Gangi, features a terrace with mountain views and is a perfect option for a longer stay. It also includes a sweet Sicilian breakfast available to have in the café outside the apartment. 90 EUR/96 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN GANGI?

Baglio Tramontana -we had one of the best dinners in Sicily in this pizza restaurant which also offered a selection of different kinds of pasta (the porcini mushroom tagliatelle was incredible), and pizza was great as well.

Capricci di Gola – a pastry shop in the lower part of the town which had an amazing selection of different local sweets and coffee.

DAY 4: Cefal ù (1 night)

• Driving distance:  approx. 60 KM (37 miles)
• Suggested stops:  Castelbuono

On day 4 we left the misty Madonie mountains in search of sunshine. We headed to one of the most picturesque seaside towns in North Sicily- Cefalù . Nestled at the foothills of an imposing rock, and washed by the salty waters of the Tyrrhenian sea, Cefalù (pronounced shef-a-loo) is an ancient fishing port featuring a picture-perfect beach set against the old town walls.

Today Cefalù is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sicily , attracting thousands of sun-seekers during the summer months. Luckily we were traveling during the shoulder season, the beginning of May. But even at this time, the main street Corso Ruggero in the old town of Cefalù was quite busy. Especially at the Piazza del Duomo. It was packed with hundreds of visitors during the day.

Nonetheless, chilly water and stormy weather kept Spiaggia di Cefalù (Cefalù beach) completely empty. And since swimming was only for the bravest that day, we opted to explore the charming backstreets of the old town without the crowds.

Here are a few things you can do while in Cefalù:

• Enjoy the sunshine and swim at Spiaggia di Cefalù o(also called Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio -the iconic Cefalù beach backed by rustic old buildings) or Spiaggia Libera (free beach stretching along the promenade leading to the old town)
• Wander and get lost in the backstreets of the historical center in Cefalù. Here you will find plenty of gelaterias to grab a granita or brioche with gelato, and also countless souvenir shops and hidden restaurants.
• Sip a coffee at the bustling Piazza del Duomo . This is the most touristic spot in Cefalù. But if crowds are not your scene, come to Piazza del Duomo after sunset- the plaza is empty and Duomo during the blue hour looks way more magical than during the day.
• Hike up La Rocca di Cefalù to Castello di Cefalù (castle) for wonderful views of the orange roofs of the old town and a coastline stretching all the way to Palermo in the west and Capo d’Orlando in the east (284 m elevation gain).
• Find the medieval wash house ( lavatoio medievale ) located on Via Vittorio Emanuelle . Wrapped in a myth of being built of the river flowing with tears of a nymph who cried over her dead lover, Lavatoio is a wonderful example of the life in Cefalù back in old days.
• Catch the sunset at the old harbor of Cefalù. This place is magically beautiful. I simply couldn’t put my camera away. The dramatically dark clouds rolling over La Rocca with the sun casting over the facades of old buildings is a dream come true scene for photography lovers. The best iconic views can be caught at the end of the cement outcrop stretching into the sea from the small harbor beach.

WHERE TO STAY IN CEFALU?

Cefalù is one of the most popular places to visit in Sicily, therefore booking accommodation well in advance is strongly recommended. Prices of accommodation are also higher than in other places around Sicily. If you are driving, I recommend looking for a place NOT in the historic center but somewhere nearby within a walking distance. Also, check if the hotel or homestay offers free parking, if at all.

Villa Margherita – 9/10 – We stayed here. Villa turned mini-hotel with a very helpful owner who even spoke English (not common in Sicily). Great breakfast was included (with savory options too). Villa has a big private inner yard to park your car safely and the historic town is no more than 10 min away, beach just a few steps away. 102 EUR/ 110 USD for the month of June (was slightly cheaper in May). Click HERE for more info.

Amori di Sicilia – 10/10- 2-bedroom apartment. If you are looking for fully equipped accommodation in the historical center of Cefalu, maybe for a longer stay, this might be a good option. Downside- no parking available.111 EUR/ 120 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

Hotel La Plumeria – 8.8/10- Hotel at the heart of Cefalu, offering rooms with fantastic balconies overlooking the old town, towers of Duomo and La Rocca, free parking, continental breakfast included. 152 EUR/ 163 USD per night. Find more info HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN CEFALU?

Options of places to eat in Cefalù old town are countless. However, the best places with fewer tourists are always in the backstreets and not on the main road. Via Carlo Ortolani di Bordonaro, almost at the back of the old town has some hidden away cozy places, some of them set on the seafront.

• Al Ristoro Di Re Ruggero is one of them-offers warm and welcoming service and great local food.
• Squagghio Icecream is also on Via Carlo Ortolani di Bordonaro. This was our gelateria to go with one of the most amazing real mango ice creams I ever had in my life (the second one was in Portugal).

DAY 5-6: Palermo (2 nights)

• Driving distance:  approx. 76 KM (47 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR 30 MIN
• Stops:  Sant’Elia, Aspra

The rough, unpolished, crumbling down, loud and chaotic but undeniably charismatic Palermo is a complete contrast to everything else I saw in Sicily.

In the capital of Sicily, you can experience authentic unfiltered city life. You see people hustling to make their living at the doorsteps of the most enchanting gold-plated churches, and head-spinning palaces. Quite a number of immigrants from Africa and Bangladesh are calling Palermo their home- something you don’t find in small towns of Sicily.

Wide streets dotted with glorious architecture, busy markets, billions of bars and street food stalls, dodgy alleyways, beggars, completely confused tourists, religious ceremonies- there were so many things going on at the same time in Palermo.

Surprisingly, spending a couple of days in Palermo was like a fresh breather and a curiosity boost after the sleepy mountain towns and slow-paced fishing villages.

Things you can do in Palermo:

• Treat your senses with sounds, smells, sights, and flavors at Ballaro morning market . Coming to full life at around 10-11 AM, a colorful and authentic like back in old days market will offer quite an entertainment. The highlight is the cheerful vendors shouting and singing serenades about their strawberries. You can find fantastic street food, bread, vegetables, meat, fish, home utensils, and clothes- they sell it all at the best prices at Ballaro in Palermo.
• Visit the famous architectural monuments- Cathedral of Palermo, Palace of Normans with golden mosaics of Palatine chapel , admire the red domes of the  St. John of the Hermits church, Martorana and Santa Caterina Churches and fountain of shame ( Fontana Pretoria ).
• Stroll through pedestrian streets of Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Via Maqueda intersecting at Quattro Canti (four corners)- the heart of the historic district of Palermo.
• Try as much street food in Palermo as you can because it is said to be the best in the world! You will find famous arancini with all sorts of fillings (not only the usual meat).
• Drive to Monreale for the impressive Unesco listed Monreale cathedral and the best bread in the region. Built in the 12th century, Monreale cathedral and its cloister contain the largest concentration of Norman, Arab and Byzantine art in one building. 2200kg of gold were used to create Monreale mosaics depicting scenes of the New and the Old Testament. Undoubtedly, those Byzantine mosaics are one of the most magnificent in the world. We have spent almost an hour just admiring the craftsmanship and detailing. Once you finish exploring the cathedral, head to any Panetteria (bakery) in town to buy some delicious Monreale bread- it was definitely the nicest one we had in Italy.
• Visit nearby seaside towns . We stopped at Aspra and Sant’Ellia when driving from Cefalù to Palermo- those are small fishing villages with a fantastic atmosphere, and opportunities to swim and meet locals.

Top Tip: Park your car at the accommodation and walk. Driving in Palermo is a bad idea due to traffic. Also, the historic center is easily walkable. If you stay a little bit outside of the historic center, it is a good idea to catch a public bus or a taxi just to avoid the headache of driving and looking for parking.

WHERE TO STAY IN PALERMO?

LA CASETTA NORMANNA – 10/10- Apartment located in the historical center of Palermo, with free parking and a garden. 100 EUR/ 109 USD per night. Click HERE for more info and the latest prices.

Ai Tre Mercati – 9.6/10- Bright simple rooms with balcony, close to Ballaro market and other historical center attractions, excellent Italian and continental breakfast included, very helpful and knowledgeable host (which is a bonus, especially in Palermo). 114 EUR/122 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

Storie di Palermo – 9.1/10- Accommodation is located in the historical center of Palermo close to Fontana Pretoria and Palermo Cathedral. Huge rooms are decorated with beautiful colorful tiles. 82 EUR/ 88 USD per night. Check for more info HERE .

N’Amuri di Casa – 10/10- simple but cozy one-bedroom apartment (can host up to 4 people) in the historical center of Palermo features a small balcony and offers free parking. 90 EUR/ 97 USD. Find out more HERE .

CATHEDRAL VIEW APARTMENTS -9.6/10- absolutely stunning and spacious 2-bedroom apartment in a historical building with a balcony opening up to the views of Palermo Cathedral. 335 EUR/360 USD per night. Check for more info HERE .

What to eat in Palermo

• All sorts of arancini. A classic one has the meat filling. However, in Palermo, you can find many different types of fillings to choose from- mozzarella, salmon, swordfish, mushroom, and many more.
• Try different types of seafood. A great place to and value is at Ballaro market where you can pick your treat from the many different stalls. You can also find cozy market restaurants with colorful covers where you can break for delicious semi-street food lunch.
• Cassata siciliana al forno at Caffè del Kàssaro . My favorite Sicilian cake, as usual with ricotta. But this one is different from the rest I have tried in Sicily.

DAY 7-8: Castellammare del Golfo and Lo Zingaro Nature reserve (2 nights in Castellammare del Golfo)

• Stops:  Monreale Cathedral

A couple of days in busy Palermo was just a perfect amount of time for us, although you could spend there much longer, or make it as a base for visiting nearby attractions.

Now we are heading North West with a short stop inland at Monreale Cathedral and back on the coast to the seaside town of Castellammare del Golfo. It will be our base for 2 nights. The main plan here is to hike Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve . The entrance to the reserve is conveniently located only 15 min drive away from Castellammare del Golfo.

Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve is Sicily’s first protected area established in 1981. It features several nature trails. One of the most popular is a relatively easy 7km one-way (14 km round trip) trail above the coast with 6 wild beaches you can stop at for a swim. Lo Zingaro became popular recently and is definitely one of the most visited natural places in Sicily due to its spectacular panoramas.

Entrance fee: 5 EUR per person per day, opening hours from 7 AM to 5 PM during the summer months and 8 AM to 4 PM off-season (winter, late autumn).

Top tip: bring snacks and water because there are no supplies along the trail except one sandwich kiosk at the South entrance side. Also, although doable in several hours, you might want to dedicate almost a full day to Lo Zingaro as you may not notice the time spent sunbathing and swimming in crystal clear waters.

RELATED READS: Make sure to also check my full guide to Lo Zingaro nature reserve in Sicily, Italy .

Castellammare del Golfo

Named after the seafront castle ( Castello Arabo Normanno ) overlooking a large gulf, Castellammare del Golfo was founded in the 6 th century BC Elymians as a commercial port.

The slopping streets and staircases of the Castellammare lead to the picturesque marina (old harbor) dotted with fishing boats and small fancy yachts. Seeing so many fishing boats docked around, you can naturally expect to find some great fresh seafood restaurants. Choices of which are plentiful in Castellammare.

There is no shortage of sandy and pebble beaches in the area of Castellamare del Golfo. The most accessible is Cala Petrolo beach situated east of the historical center. I wouldn’t recommend swimming there; it didn’t look clean and the setup of the massive concrete wall behind was not appealing at all.

Instead, head further east to Spiaggia Playa (around a 20min walk from the old town)- a long stretch of sandy beach backed by many restaurants and cafes. Spiaggia Playa is a swimming place loved by locals and gets busy during the peak summer months.

Alternatively, drive 10 minutes West of Castellammare del Golfo to the wild beaches Cala Bianca or Cala Rosa. You will have to navigate your way from the main road to one of the hidden turns leading to those pristine beaches.

Head to Belvedere Castellamare del Golfo for scenic views overlooking the town and stretching as far as Palermo.

WHERE TO STAY IN CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO?

Le Sette Meraviglie – 9.7/10 – simple and bright one-bedroom apartments with balcony and sea view, offer free parking. 94 EU/101 USD. Find out more and book HERE .

B&B Nencioli – 9.8/10 – nicely decorated spacious rooms with balconies are offered in this B&B which is also located in the historic center of Castellamare del Golfo. Continental breakfast is also included. And served at a terrace with a beautiful view, free parking included. 109 EUR/117 EUR per night. Find out more and book HERE .

Atrium – 9.8/10 -located 10 min walk from the beach, the accommodation offers elegant rooms with terrace or balcony, free parking, shared kitchen, and exceptional continental breakfast included. 88 EUR/ 94 USD per night. Find out more and book HERE.

Santina -9.5/10 – bright fresh rooms, fantastic seaside views, and great terrace, free parking and breakfast included. 264 EUR/ 283 USD per night. Find out more and book HERE .

Gastronomical tip: try cassatelle – ricotta and chocolate-chip-filled pastry in a sweet dhow, usually deep-fried. It is a specialty of Castellammare del Goflo, and you can find it all around the town. Our host in Palermo recommended roadside bar La Sorgente which specializes in cassatelle pastries. Trust me they are really good, so we came back multiple times.

DAY 9: Favignana (Egadian islands) (1 night)

• Driving distance:  approx. 42 KM (26 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 50 MIN
• Parking:  Leaving the car for the night in Trapani

The time spent in Castellammare del Golfo and Lo Zingaro was slow-paced and relaxed. To extend our semi-chilled vacation(considering that we always move around and explore places), we decided to spend one night in Favignana . It is located on the west coast and is reachable by 30 min ferry ride from Trapani.

Favignana is the largest of the three Egadian islands, but still small enough to tour its aquamarine beaches on an old-school bicycle. The other two islands are tiny Levanzo and the wild one- Marettimo.

Favignana can be paralleled to the laid-back island life of the Caribbeans – a perfect place just to do nothing, go on a slow beach hopping with many stops for an ice-fresh granita.

For this reason, the best way to explore Favignana island is by bicycle, electronic bike, or scooter. There are countless rental spots ( Noleggio Bici e Motorini ) just outside the ferry port and in the old town.

Things to do on Favignana island

• Beach hopping. The noteworthy ones are Calla Rosa, Calla Azzurra, Spiaggia Lido di Burrone, and our favorite the unique Bue Marino- an old query turned beach with impossibly blue waters.
• Catch the sunset at Cala Rotonda located on the western part of the island which was completely wild and scenery wise reminded me of the Turkish side of Cyprus.
• Just do nothing- it is an island to slow down, sip some aperitivo, coffee, or granita- whatever your preference is. A perfect place for that is tiny Favignana’s historical center, the Piazza Europa- one of the two main old town squares (the other one just 50 meters away is Piazza Madrice).
• Try street food- tuna burgers to be specific. Pescheria Florio at the corner of Piazza Europa is a place to go (we ate there countless times during our 1.5-day stay).
• If you have more time, catch a boat to Levanzo island and spend a couple of hours there. Marettimo is further away, with fewer daily connections, and also the wildest out of all 3 islands. You should visit it if you have more than a night in Fivignana.

READ MORE: my complete guide to Favignana and Egadi islands, Sicily .

Top tip: if you are arriving in a rental car, park it for the night in a large parking lot at Piazza Vittorio Emanuele in Trapani. It wouldn’t make sense to bring the car to Favignana- costly and you won’t need it. Parking in Trapani costs only 5 EUR for a day (and that’s the maximum you can pay in one shot). Therefore, if you are visiting the Egadian islands only for one night and need to leave your car in Trapani, this is a perfect option. Note that you will have to walk 15 minutes to the ferry from the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele parking lot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FAVIGNANA?

Cave Garden Roo ms- 9.7/10- we stayed here and it was amazing-located a few kilometers inland but free pick up and drop off from the ferry is provided. If you planning on renting a bike, it is a perfect place to stay. The family-run hotel features special cave rooms which are very modern and extremely comfy beds. The place was very peaceful, the breakfast amazing, and the hosts were absolutely incredible. Highly recommend! 60 EUR/64USD per night. Check for more info, availability, and booking HERE .

Residence Scirocco e Tramontana – 9.3/10 – Fantastic one-bedroom apartment with beach vibes, overlooking the sea and close to the ferry port. 155 EUR/166 USD per night. Check for more info, availability, and booking HERE .

Casa Vacanze Senia Del Rais – 9.4/10 – vacation house, located inland of Favignana, free pick up and drop off from the port is included. 147 EUR/ 158 USD per night. Check for more info, availability, and booking HERE .

DAY 10-11: Trapani (2 nights)

• Driving distance:  approx. 90 KM (56 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 2 HRS
• Visiting:  Erice and San Vito Lo Capo

Trapani is the biggest port town in West Sicily which also has an airport. On my first visit to Sicily back in 2016, Trapani was where I landed. The old town of Trapani isn’t huge and features an atmospheric waterfront facing the west side (great for sunsets). You probably won’t need more than half a day to explore Trapani’s historic center at a slow pace.

Top Tip: Trapani is a perfect base for exploring Western Sicily because many attractions are within a 30min to 1-hour drive.

Things to do around Trapani

• Visit Erice- a mountain-top town frozen back in time.

You may wonder if, after seeing a few mountain towns of Madonie, you really need to see another one. The answer is yes. Erice is absolutely unmissable on your Sicily trip and it is different from what you may have seen before.

Erice is a well-preserved medieval town, with narrow cobblestone streets winding up and down, pretty piazzas, churches, castles, and incredible views overlooking Trapani on one side and Monte Cofano Natural Reserve on the other. Driving the classic hairpin mountain road, you will find Erice situated 751 meters above sea level and often covered in its personal cloud. To catch the misty views, and great light, and to avoid crowds (tour buses start floating in at around 9 am) aim to come early morning. Also, you can come for an evening stroll with an opportunity to catch a beautiful sunset.

There are quite a few wonderful viewing points around the whole perimeter of Erice. But one of the best ones opens up from Gardino del Balio – the garden next to Balio Castle (which is also open for visitors).

Useful Tip: if you are not keen on driving the windy roads, you can take a cable car from Trapani. A round trip costs 9 EUR per person). Coming back during the sunset time by cable car is also a fantastic experience.

• Visit Monte Cofano Natural Reserve.

Heading up north towards San Vito Lo Capo, Monte Cofano Nature Reserve is home to some of the best sceneries in Sicily. You can go on a light hike around the Reserve, or stop at one of the less crowded beaches in Macari (Spiaggia di Macari) . An interesting detour is Grotta Mangiapane – a tiny cave village turned museum. The cost for the visit is a donation of your chosen amount.

• Visit San Vito Lo Capo beach .

San Vito lo Capo located at the very northwestern tip of the island is considered one of the best beaches in Sicily. No wonder it became a popular summer destination as it features a long stretch of white sand beach dotted with colorful umbrellas and divided into free and private sections.

A number of bars and restaurants dotted along Via Lotaranea Lungomare, plus fantastic views of the nearby mountain is a full package for those who love bustling seaside towns.

I have to admit San Vito Lo Capo wasn’t my cup of tea- it was just a little too busy even in May. But I can see why it is a great hangout spot, especially for teenagers and students, and also families since the sea access is quite shallow.

Dessert Tip: When in San Vito Lo Capo, try “fredo caldo” desert at Cavalluccio Marino coffee bar. Couscous is also a specialty there but I didn’t particularly enjoy that dish.

• Visit Segesta temple

Well-preserved and based in gorgeous surroundings, Segesta temple and the theatre are the remains of a former ancient city founded by Elymes. Segesta is 30 min drive from Trapani. The visit will cost you roughly 12 EUR. There is a separate fee for the shuttle bus taking visitors to the site. You must leave your car at a paid parking and also pay a 6 EUR entrance fee for visiting the temple and theater.  Note that the theater is located a little bit higher up on Mount Barbaro 400 meters above sea level. If you are not keen on walking, there is another shuttle bus for 1.5 EUR one way which can take you there.

• Visit Favignana island on a day trip. If you don’t want to spend a night in Favignana, Trapani is a perfect base for a day trip to the Egadian islands. Connections from Trapani to Favignana are frequent and you can enjoy a relaxed day without having to spend the night.

WHERE TO STAY IN TRAPANI?

Le Cupole Suits & Apartments – 9.7/10- spacious minimalistic and bright apartments in the heart of Trapani with private parking available. 101 EUR/108 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Tra I Mari – 9.7/10- One-bedroom house in the historic center of Trapani with free parking available, perfect for a longer stay in Trapani. 116 EUR/ 125 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Room of Andrea Hotel – 9.2/10- a boutique hotel offering elegant rooms in the historic center of Trapani, buffet breakfast included. 162 EUR/174 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Dimora Botteghelle – 9.5/10- charming B&B with beautiful rooms featuring traditional arched stone walls, 1 min walk from the beach in Trapani historical center. 128 EUR/ 136 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN TRAPANI?

Boca Pizzeria Trattoria – not exactly in Trapani old town but only 10 min drive in Rigaletta town. This place was my number one Pizzeria in Sicily serving super delicious pizzas on focaccia type of dough with a very generous amount of toppings. Sevice was unmatched considering how busy this place in the middle of nowhere gets. Reservation in advance is recommended. We came without one but super-efficient restaurant manager made sure to get us a table in under 10 minutes.

DAY 12- 13: Ragusa and Modica (2 nights in Ragusa)

• Driving distance:  approx. 313 KM (194 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 4 HRS 50 MIN
• Stops: Punta Bianca
• Alternative stop: Valley of Temples

This leg of the journey is the longest on our road trip. We will be heading from Trapani to the baroque gem Ragusa . Along the way, I have included an off-the-beaten-path stop at Punta Bianca – a rival to the more well-known Scali dei Tuchi (Turkish Steps) in Agrigento province.

Alternative detour: If you are keen on history, ruins, and temples, then along the way, instead of Punta Bianca, you can stop at the famous Valley of Temples in Agrigento . We were not too keen on visiting this tourist sight and only witnessed it from afar while driving on SS115 road. It was quite a bizarre view- an ancient Temple of Concordia backed by the soviet type of urban landscape of Agrigento.

Instead of Valley of Temples, we chose to explore quite an unusual sight of Punta Bianca- a unique white rock beach with a lonely abandoned house. It was a bumpy off-road drive to the parking spot, and a short 500 meters walk down the steep hill to the beach.

The views here are different from what we saw everywhere in Sicily. With beautiful natural surroundings, Punta Bianca is a great stop for photography lovers. I advise coming during the sunset (we were there during midday, and even at that time the scenery looked impressive).

We spent a good couple of hours shooting and trying to swim at Punta Bianca (it is not ideal for swimming, although there is another beach nearby that looked more suitable for swimming).

Important: Don’t step in the small bushes in this area. We saw a black long snake hiding and apparently, there are a lot of them in the area. Nothing to worry about, just avoid those small bushes and stick to the clear sandy paths.

Ragusa is one of the UNESCO baroque towns that belong to Val Di Noto – a crown jewel of southeast Sicily and an absolute must-visit.

The town of two souls-Ragusa is divided into the modern city and the ancient Ragusa Ibla- the baroque lounge. The split of the town happened after the 1693 earthquake. Ragusa Superior, today known as the modern Ragusa, was rebuilt based on efficiency, while the prettier and more atmospheric Ragusa Inferior or Ragusa Ibla (the lower part of town) was rebuilt in baroque style and now is a quickly growing tourism magnet.

Still, it doesn’t seem to be completely discovered and you can pleasantly enjoy the maze of Ragusa’s street free of crowds.

The main architectural landmark of Ragusa is Duomo di San Giorgio . The piazza surrounding the Duomo comes alive at night with its many bars and restaurants where you can have a drink or dinner.

Meanwhile, the iconic views of Ragusa Ibla can be seen from Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Scale (the church of Saint Mary of the Stairs).

The most pleasant time to explore Ragusa is early mornings when the streets are completely empty. At this time, you will only meet a few elderly people gathering at a local cafeteria sipping espresso and reading newspapers (and probably being the last generation to actually read old-school newspapers in this digital era).

While at sunset, head for the viewing point at Panoramica su Ragusa Ibla to watch the golden hues of the sunset painting the buildings followed by the street lights slowly illuminating the alleyways and churches.

Read my complete Guide to Visiting Ragusa: Sicily’s town of two faces.

Modica- the town of chocolate

Modica is another town that belongs to Val di Noto and is particularly famous for its special cold-processed chocolate. Being a huge fan of dark chocolate, I headed directly to the oldest chocolate factory in town- Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, and joined their chocolate tour (with tasting included).

Other than plenty of typical Modica chocolate places, Modica is also renowned for its great baroque architecture. One of the most important architectural masterpieces is the Duomo di San Giorgio . 250 steps leading to it are connecting the lower (basa) and upper (alta) parts of Modica.

Most of the historical part is located in Modica Alta. Therefore there are plenty of steep inclines to deal with. We visited during midday and it was quite a challenge to walk around. Even in mid-May, the heat is already unbearable. For this, we found a cozy Bar del Duomo on the side of Duomo di San Giorgio and ordered chocolate granitas (a must-try in Modica) to cool down.

Other places to add to the itinerary of Val di Noto

• Noto town. We haven’t included Noto in this itinerary but it is probably the most famous town out of all Val di Noto Baroque towns. It is said to be the most beautiful at sunset time when the buildings of the historic town are glowing in golden light.
• Scicli is the smallest town in Val di Noto and can be added to the day trip from Ragusa via Modica as all three towns are relatively close by.

WHERE TO STAY IN RAGUSA?

When choosing our accommodation in Val di Noto, I couldn’t decide between Modica and Ragusa. It turned out that picking Ragusa as our base was the best choice as the town itself is also more charming than Modica. Therefore, if you also have doubts, go for Ragusa.

Amaca Iblea – 9.3/10- A cozy one-bedroom apartment in a historic building featuring fantastic views of Ragusa Ibla. We stayed here and it was one of my favorite places in Sicily. Parking is free but not easy to find in the old town, however, the host will help to sort this out. 53 EUR/57 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Epoca – 9.6/10- enchanting rooms in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, has beautiful terrace and breakfast is included, free parking is also available. 132 EUR, 141 USD per night. For more info, availability and booking click HERE .

Giardino Sul Duomo – 9.3/10- modern rooms with wood-beamed ceilings in a guesthouse offering a garden and a pool, a great view of Ragusa Ibla, and some rooms overlooking the Cathedral. 134 EUR/ 144 USD per night. For more info, availability and booking click HERE .

A.D. 178 Boutique Hotel – 9.7/10- gorgeous boutique hotel perfectly combining art, contemporary design, and classic Baroque architecture. Each room is also different. Located at the very heart of Ragusa Ibla. 200 EUR/213 USD per night. For more info, availability and booking click HERE .

From Day 14 our route was meant to continue back to South Italy, through Messina port. We only shortly stopped at a tiny hill-top town of Savoca where some of the Godfather’s scenes were filmed.

However, if we had 3 more days to spare in Sicily, the places suggested below would have been definitely added to the route.

As you may have more time than us, it is likely that you will definitely want to include the following must-visit sights in East Sicily.

DAY 14: Ortigia Island (the historic center of Syracuse) (overnight in Syracuse/Ortigia)

• Driving distance:  approx. 77 KM (47 miles) Ragusa-Syracuse.

The gem of the Eastern part of Sicily is the baroque island of Ortigia (or Ortygia) – in a lack of a better word-an appendix or an extension of the Greek town of Syracuse. 

Pedestrian-friendly Ortigia is renowned for its cultural heritage with a significant Greek influence. A UNESCO landmark, Ortigia was inhabited for over 3000 years and plays an important role in shaping the Mediterranean culture over the centuries.

Today, Ortigia attracts many culture lovers who will have a delightful time exploring its exquisite piazzas with impressive church facades and suggestive tiny streets. Whitewashed sun-kissed houses surrounded by crystalline sea and many restaurants are said to serve the food just as good as the one in Palermo.

Moreover, Ortigia is less touristy than Taormina and more polished than Catania.

Meanwhile, mainland Syracuse is the birthplace of Archimedes (a famous mathematician, philosopher, and inventor) with Neapolis Archeological Park , home to 5 century BC Greek theater, being an important historical attraction. While Valley of Temples in Agrigento is the most significant site showcasing how strong Greek influence was in south-east Sicily, the ruins of Neapolis in Syracuse come close to second.

WHERE TO STAY IN ORTIGIA?

For your reference, and also for my future visit, I have shortlisted the following accommodation options to stay in Ortigia.

Il Duomo – 9.4/10- set in a 19th-century building this accommodation provides good value for money for the central location, a sweet breakfast is also included. 94 EUR/101 USD price per night. Find out more info, availability, and bookings HERE.

B&B Porta Marina Ortigia – 9.2/10- Located in a historical building, the B&B offers classic rooms with balconies and sea views. A sweet and savory breakfast is also included. 152 EUR/ 163 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and bookings.

Henry’s House – 8.9/10- Located in Ortigia, this unique boutique hotel provides artistically decorated rooms and offers a special experience. A terrace overlooking the sea is available in the common area. Pricey option but definitely popular and different.  246 EUR/ 264 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and bookings.

DAY 15: Etna hike (afternoon in Taormina) (overnight in Taormina or Catania)

• Driving distance:  approx. 156 KM (97 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 2 HR 46 MIN (estimated time if the night is spent in Taormina)

Etna – Europe’s most active volcano , constantly keeping inhabitants of the surrounding villages on edge.  You have probably seen pictures of the mighty volcano spitting lava flames and fuming like a giant dragon.

The active volcano is not something you aim to conquer but you can still take a careful glimpse at its crater from afar. The highest point you can reach in Etna is 3326 meters above sea level.

You have 3 options to visit Etna:

• Self-guided hike (cheapest but hardest option) starting at the base camp of Rifugio Sapienza at 1910 m above sea level. Here you can park your car and start a grueling 1416 meters climb over challenging terrain with very steep inclines.  Recommended only for confident and fit hikers.
• Semi-self-guided hike. You can cut off the grind by taking a cable car from Rifugio Sapienza to 2500 m base (33 EUR per person round trip), and then a 4×4 bus to 2920m (24 EUR per person round trip). From here you will only have to hike the crater area.
• Guided tour . Apparently, the most popular way to visit Etna volcano. The prices of guided tours range significantly. Possibly one of the best deals is this one on Get Your Guide (only 45 EUR per person, not including cable car cost).

It will take you around half a day to visit Etna volcano. After, you have an option either to return to Catania or spend the night there before your flight (depending on your schedule). Or, visit Taormina as an afternoon trip, or even spend a night there before you head back to Catania airport the next day.

Taormina is the most famous mountain town in Sicily featuring an imposing Greek theatre set against the beautiful panorama of the Sicilian coast. It is also the most touristic town in Eastern Sicily. Although Taormina looks pretty in the pictures, we had no intention of visiting it on our trip mainly because of it being overrun by tourists (we experienced over-tourism in Positano, and it was just not for us).

Nonetheless, there is a reason people come to visit certain places.  Undoubtedly Taormina must have its charms and spending a night there might give you an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset and stroll tourist-free old town streets during the early morning or late evening hours.

Since you are in the area, it is also worth stopping by Savoca- a tiny hill-top town famous for the Bar Vitelli , where one of the famous scenes of the Godfather movie was filmed. Note that the bar itself is heavily overpriced, but if you are a fan of the film, it is worth having an espresso in this special place which still keeps the original setup as seen in Godfather.

WHERE TO SPEND A NIGHT IN TAORMINA?

Taormina won’t come cheap as it is a very popular destination. However, there are plenty of options not immediately in the historic center. The below ones got my attention:

B&B GRECO HOME – 9.8/10- beautiful bright room in an accommodation that also offers a common terrace, and continental breakfast, and only 950 meters to the beach is included, private parking is also available. 112 EUR/ 120 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and booking.

Villa Le Terrace Charming Rooms- 9.5/10- situated outside the busy Taormina historic center Villa Le Terrace features a fantastic terrace with mount Etna views. Rooms also have balconies with a fantastic panorama. 160 EUR/ 170 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and booking.

DAY 16: Catania (flight day)

• Driving distance:  approx. 70 KM (43 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR  (driving time from Taormina to Catania International Airport)

And that’s a wrap for our Sicilian road trip, sadly…  But with a strong feeling that we will soon be coming back to this gorgeous Mediterranean island of Italy.

I hope you will find this 14-day Sicily itinerary inspiring and useful when planning your own Sicily road trip. If you have any questions regarding traveling around Sicily, do not hesitate to drop me a message.

More Italy travel guides and resources

Sicily travel guides.

• Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Sicily and Driving Stress-Free
• Renting a car in Catania, Sicily
• Renting a car in Palermo: what you need to know
• Epic Road Trip for 2-weeks in Sicily itinerary
• Essential Sicily Travel Tips .
• 21 spectacular places to visit in Sicily 
• How to visit Favignana island, Sicily
• Guide to hiking Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve
• Visit Gangi mountain town in Sicily
• The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.
• The most charming mountain towns in Sicily .
• Which is better: Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

General Italy travel guides

• Browse all my  blog posts about Italy   HERE .
• Looking for romantic road trip ideas in Italy? Check my list of  15 Best Road Trips in Italy.
• The ultimate guide to renting a car in Italy
• Tips for driving in Italy for the first time
• Thinking of renting a car in Rome? Read my guide to  How to rent a car in Rome .
• Best coastal towns in southern Italy.
• Explore Calabria- the least visited region in Italy.
• Visit Sicily- the biggest island in Italy.

Italy travel resources

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• HIRE A CAR : Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: find the cheapest and the best flight combinations with Skyscanner .
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide , outdoor tours and activities with Manawa .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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Sicily Road Trip: Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

Delicious Sicily: a fascinating island off the mainland of Italy with stunning architecture, rich culture, and staggeringly beautiful landscapes. Speed along the stunning coastline, sunbathe in tiny coves with clear turquoise water, explore ancient towns with steep streets, and feast on fresh seafood and crispy cannoli. The relaxed Dolce Vita lifestyle is in full swing here, so take your time to enjoy life’s small pleasures. Let your Sicily road trip begin!

Sicily Road Trip

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily differs from the rest of Italy with its unique history, culture, and language. A Sicily road trip is the best way to see the island and immerse yourself in its culture, giving you the ultimate freedom to pick and choose what to see.

Here are all your hotel options in Sicily.

Tip: Everything moves at a slower pace, so be prepared for unusual opening times, with many shops and attractions closing between 1-4 PM so families can enjoy a long lunch. Embrace the relaxed way of life with our 14-day Sicily itinerary.

Day 1: Catania

It’s the first day of your Sicily road trip! With a beautiful backdrop of Mount Etna and a lively local atmosphere, the port city of Catania is a great place to kick off your Sicilian adventure. Half a day is enough to explore the center and see the city’s top sights, so don’t worry if you arrive after midday. 

Here are all your hotel options in Catania.

Explore the city streets, admire its stunning palazzos and piazzas, and dive into a wine bar or two! To see the city from a different perspective, head to the peaceful Villa Bellini Gardens or climb to the top of Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata church for an eagle-eye view of Catania and the volcano. 

Tip: If you are here early in the morning, don’t miss a visit to the historic La Pescheria, one of the biggest fish markets in Sicily. It’s the perfect place to experience vibrant local life as you watch people negotiate for their favorites!

From the Airport

Catania is a great place to start your Sicily Itinerary (14 days), as you can take a short 10-minute train from the international airport to the center of town (1.90 EUR / 2.09 USD).

Alternatively, rent a car from here, although please note that finding parking in the city can be difficult.

We recommend to rent a car in Sicily through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Where to Stay in Catania

As you are only here for one night of your Siciliy road trip, it’s best to stay in the historic center. The best spot is close to the Cathedral or Via Etnea, where most of the main attractions are. Even though it’s very central, there are plenty of accommodation options for every budget.

Hotels in Catania 😴

Day 2-3: Taormina

Time to hit the road! An hour’s drive north from Catania is the stunningly picturesque clifftop town of Taormina – the next stop of your 14-day Sicily itinerary. Spend a few days exploring this idyllic town, home to atmospheric streets, gelaterias, ceramic shops, and island beaches with crystal clear water.

Read: Best things to do in Taormina, Sicily

Tip: One of our favorite things to do in Taormina was to take in the panoramic views at sunset from Piazza IX Aprile. Make sure to have a cold aperitivo in hand (an integral part of Sicilian culture!).

Here are all your hotel options in Taormina.

Visiting Mount Etna on your Sicily Road Trip

Taormina is also very close to the majestic Mount Etna, and you can do a half-day tour of the volcano from here. Many tours also include local food and wine tastings, as the volcanic earth makes it the perfect place to grow grapes.

How to get from Catania to Taormina

It is an hour’s drive from Catania to Taormina. However, please note that parking in the town is almost impossible. The best option is to park in the Lumbi parking garage just outside. The price is 5 USD for two days, including a free shuttle bus to the center.

Alternatively, if you don’t have a car, you can travel by train on your Sicily itinerary (14 days). There are frequent trains from Catania along the coast, which cost less than 10 USD and take approximately two hours.

Where to Stay in Taormina

Taormina has two main areas: the historic center on the clifftop and the beach. Choose your accommodation depending on where you want to spend most of your time. However, both are good options as a cable car connects the two.

Hotels in Taormina 😴

Day 4-5: Cefalù

Located on the island’s north coast is the beautiful old fishing town of Cefalù – one of the most picturesque destinations on your Sicily road trip! Summer is neverending in this ancient romantic town, home to sun-drenched squares, fantastic restaurants, and traditional ceramic shops. Cefalù is a place to relax and unwind, have late nights and lazy mornings, and enjoy the authentic ‘Dolce Vita’ lifestyle.

Here are all your hotel options in Cefalù.

Make sure to visit the beautiful pier, Molo di Cefalù’, where you can admire a rustic view of the beach backed by typical Sicilian houses. In summer, this is also the best place for sunbathing and diving into the harbor to cool off!

Also read: What to do in Sicily, Italy .

How to get from Taormina to Cefalù

It is a 2.5-hour drive along the stunning coastline to reach Cefalù, which lies right in the middle of the north coast of Sicily. Parking can be an issue here, but you can park for free in Porto Presidiana. From here, a shuttle bus takes you into town for 5 EUR.

Where to Stay in Cefalù

If you don’t feel like walking far, choose accommodation in the old town. However, please note that the new town (although not as pretty) is cheaper.

Hotels in Cefalù 😴

Cefalu, in general, is a touristy location (especially in the summer), so there are plenty of B&Bs and hotels to choose from.

Day 6-7 of your Sicily Road Trip: Palermo

No Sicily road trip would be complete without a visit to Palermo, the island’s capital. The city is full of energy, character, and contrasts, with an eclectic mix of Greek , North African , and Middle Eastern influences that can be seen in its people, culture, and food.  The Mafia has also left its mark, and although it is still a very real presence in the background of Sicilian life, there is now a strong anti-Mafia movement working hard to rebel against it.

Learn more about the anti-mafia movement on this popular walking tour

Palermo is also famous for its incredible street food and fantastic open-air markets. You’ll find many of the stalls selling traditional Sicilian delicacies, like hot chickpea fritters, crispy cannoli, and spleen sandwiches! Make sure to factor in time on your 14-day Sicily itinerary to also explore the charismatic neighborhoods with their tiny winding alleyways and the incredible architecture of the Norman Palace (one of the oldest royal residences in Europe). 

Here are all your hotel options in Palermo.

Tip: Don’t miss the spectacular view from the top of the Palermo Cathedral at sunset. From here, you can see the whole city with a backdrop of mountains behind it.

How to get from Cefalù to Palermo

It is a one-hour drive from Cefalù to Palermo. On the way, stop at Punta Sant’Elia, a stunningly scenic spot on the coast with a tiny cove great for swimming. This is a must-do on your Sicily road trip! 

You can also take a direct train to Palermo, which takes around an hour.

Where to Stay in Palermo

The historic center is the best place to base yourself, as you are within walking distance of the main sights and attractions. La Kalsa neighborhood is a good option for those on a budget.

Hotels in Palermo 😴

Day 8-10: Trapani

Next on your Sicily road trip is the beautiful port city of Trapani on the west coast. The town itself is home to charming streets, stunning stretches of golden sand, and tiny coves perfect for swimming. This is where your car comes in handy, as there are lots of beautiful places to discover in the surrounding area. 

Here are all your hotel options in Trapani.

Once you’ve explored the old town, head out to the Scopello area for a walk in the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. This natural haven has an incredible view over the spectacular Tonnara di Scopello, which is one of the most beautiful coves on the island. Popular with locals, it’s an amazing place to spend a sunny afternoon swimming and sunbathing and a memorable destination on your 14-day Sicily itinerary.

Other nearby spots worth visiting are the medieval hilltop town of Erice or Favignana Island, which can be explored by bicycle. Alternatively, relax at the breathtaking beach at San Vito Lo Capo.

Tip: If you have enough time, make a quick trip to the fascinating ruins of the Temple of Segesta.

How to get from Palermo to Trapani

It is a 1.5-hour drive from Palermo to Trapani . On the way, stop at Baia di San Cataldo, an old bunker built on a clifftop with gorgeous coastal views.

Alternatively, there is a direct train from Palermo, which takes approximately 2 hours.

Book your train tickets in advance of your trip

Where to Stay in Trapani

Stay in the historic center of Trapani , or go for more rural accommodation in the countryside or by the sea.

Hotels in Trapani 😴

If you’re looking for something unique on your Sicily itinerary (14 days), this converted watchtower near Scopello is very special.

Day 11: Agrigento

Next on your Sicily road trip is the ancient town of Agrigento! This beautiful town is one of the oldest in Sicily, with stunning examples of Arabic architecture, beautiful churches, and palazzos.

We’ve added it as a stop on this 14-day Sicily itinerary because of its proximity to the extraordinary Valley of the Temples, an impressive collection of ancient Greek structures built on the hillside over 2000 years ago. 

Spend the late afternoon exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site , with ancient ruins scattered among a grove of lemon and olive trees. If you can, stay to watch the sun go down over the valley, which illuminates the temples before they are lit up as night falls.

See tickets and availability for a tour of the Valley of the Temples

Afterward, return to town for a relaxed Sicilian dinner, finished with the locally renowned pecorino gelato at Le Cuspidi !

How to Visit Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples is open 8:30 AM – 7 PM. During the high season (July-September), it stays open until 11 PM weekly and midnight at the weekend. It costs 10 EUR to enter.

If you don’t want to drive to the Valley of the Temples, you can take the bus from Agrigento for 1.50 EUR.

How to get from Trapani to Agrigento on your Sicily road trip

It is just over 2 hours to drive from Trapani to Agrigento. On the way, stop at the Turkish Steps (Scala dei Turchi), a set of white limestone cliffs formed into natural steps that lead down to the sea. This is the exact location .

Where to Stay in Agrigento

There are many hotels and B&Bs in town. Alternatively, spend the night in an agriturismo to wake up to lovely views of the Sicilian countryside.

Hotels in Agrigento 😴

Day 12: Ragusa

The hilltop town of Ragusa, located in the beautiful Val di Noto area, is known as the birthplace of Sicilian Baroque architecture. The town is split into two parts, separated by a deep ravine. Because of this, we recommend starting from the upper town, where you can see incredible views, before walking down the steep stone steps to the historic center. 

Here are all your hotel options in Ragusa.

You can spend hours wandering around the small streets of the old city, admiring incredible buildings like the stunning Baroque Cathedral. Take plenty of breaks for plates of stuffed flatbreads, Ragusano cheese, and fresh seafood throughout the day.

In the evening, walk it all off with a traditional passeggiata (evening stroll) through the town. This Italian custom is best at the weekend when couples, families, and friends come onto the streets to socialize and flirt; it’s the best time for people-watching! 

How to get from Agrigento to Ragusa

This stretch of the Sicily road trip from Agrigento to Ragusa along the south coast takes just under two and a half hours. Unfortunately, the public transport options are more limited in this area. However, there are buses available. 

Where to Stay in Ragusa

Stay in the Ragusa Superiore, the newer area with fantastic views over the old city. Alternatively, choose the Ragusa Ibla, where you are surrounded by stunning architecture and the charming atmosphere of the old town. There are plenty of boutique hotels and lovely guesthouses to choose from in both areas.

Hotels in Ragusa 😴

Day 13-14: Siracusa (Final Days of your Sicily Road Trip)

As the end of your Sicily road trip draws near, embrace the true Dolce Vita lifestyle in the picturesque town of Siracusa. The old town is located on Ortigia Island, connected to the rest of Siracusa by two small bridges. There aren’t many cars here, so the quiet streets and tiny alleyways are perfect to stroll through at your own pace.

Here are all your hotel options in Siracusa.

Admire the ancient ruins of a Greek temple before browsing the Ortigia market for fresh fish, local wine, and heaped piles of herbs and spices. 

Spend the rest of your 14-day Sicily itinerary in Siracusa swimming off the rocky beaches and relaxing before returning home. Alternatively, squeeze in one last activity by cycling along the Rossana Maiorca coast path, and treat yourself to your last few plates of Sicilian pasta, creamy gelatos, and ice-cold granitas.

Tip: Close by is the Neapolis Archaeological Park, a collection of impressive Ancient Greek ruins. It’s well worth a visit to discover the fascinating history of this area of Sicily.

How to get from Ragusa to Siracusa

It is a 1.5-hour drive from Ragusa to Siracusa. On the way, you’ll pass through the town of Modica, famous for Aztec chocolate!

From Siracusa to the Airport

From Siracusa, it is a 1-1.5 hour drive (or train journey) to the international airport in Catania – and the end point of your 2-week Sicily road trip!

Where to Stay in Siracusa

Base yourself on the island of Ortigia, which is the most picturesque part of the town. Ask your hotel about where it is best to park before arriving.

Hotels in Siracusa 😴

How to Visit Sicily in a 2-week road trip

This Sicily road trip starts and ends in Catania, which has the main international airport on the island. However, there are five other airports in various cities. 

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from mainland Italy to any port city on the island. Best of all, most of these allow cars, making it the perfect option if you are planning an extended road trip around the whole country.

There is also a train from the mainland, which is transported over the Strait of Messina by ferry!

Book your transport to Sicily in advance here

Getting Around Sicily

The best way to follow a 14-day Sicily itinerary is by car! Having your own wheels gives you the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace. It can also save you time in the long run, allowing you to visit those out-of-the-way destinations. 

In bigger cities like Catania and Palermo, it’s better to leave the car near your hotel while exploring, as busy roads make it difficult to navigate and park. 

Note: The historic centers of small towns often have limited parking. Because of this, it’s best to check with your hotel where it is best to park before your arrival.

By Train and Bus

If you’re not able to do a Sicily road trip, you can also travel around Sicily by public transport. However, this generally takes longer, and timetables aren’t always reliable. Trains run between most big towns, but days 11-14 of the Sicily itinerary may be more difficult as you will need to take buses.

See availability for bus and train trips in Sicily

Our Favorite Accommodations

Sicily has a huge range of accommodation options depending on your budget. Although there are not many hostels in the smaller towns, there are plenty of affordable guesthouses and B&Bs, beautiful hotels, rustic agriturismos, and luxury private villas. Here are our favorites from each destination on the Sicily road trip:

• Catania: Dome , Bed, Book & Breakfast Landolina , The Yard Hostel
• Taormina: B & B Teatro Greco 39 , Hotel Le Chevalier , Vilagos Apartments and Loft
• Cefalù: Al 33 Giri , Cortile Umberto I , Lirma B & B
• Palermo: Sui Tetti di Balarm Boutique Rooms , Family Affair , Canceddi B & B
• Trapani: Villa le Torri B & B , BADIA NUOVA Apart Hotel , Le Cupole Suites and Apartments
• Agrigento: Villa La Lumia Suites and Apartments , Casa Tita , B & B Triskéles
• Ragusa: Bed and Breakfast Terra del Sole Ibla , A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel , Pura Vida Barocca
• Siracusa: Palazzo Alfeo Aparthotel , La Maison , La Residenza del Reginale

How Much Does a 2-week Sicily road trip Cost?

Sicily is a relatively affordable destination, with your most significant expenses being accommodation and car rental. It also depends on the time of year you visit. For example, the summer months are generally more expensive (with prices peaking in September). 

Costs of Traveling in Sicily

Travel on a budget in Sicily, from $370 − $430 USD weekly per person, mid-range $720 − $1690 USD, and high-end from $1690 − $2090 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $10 − $30 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $100 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $20 USD
• Activities: $10 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Is Sicily Safe?

In general, Sicily is a very safe place to visit. Although the mafia is still active on the island, they have much less influence than before, and they don’t generally pose a threat to tourists. As in most places, keep an eye on personal belongings when out and about, and don’t leave anything in your car overnight. 

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Italy trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Tip: Mount Etna is an active volcano, so always follow local advice and guidelines and check government websites before traveling. 

Best Time to Visit Sicily for 2 Weeks

The best time for a Sicily road trip is during the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are fewer crowds. However, bear in mind that September is actually the busiest month and, therefore, the most expensive. 

June-August is extremely hot. However, there is a lively atmosphere, and it is fantastic if you are looking to spend most of your 14-day Sicily itinerary at the beach. 

Alternatively, you may want to base your trip around one of Sicily’s incredible festivals, like Carnival in February, lively Easter celebrations, or the many seasonal street food festivals known as ‘sagre.’

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Sicily via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Rasiglia, Italy: Explore Little Venice of Umbria

What to do in sicily: 13 must-see spots, 9 best things to do in italy.

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10 Day Sicily Road Trip Itinerary Planner

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2023

Home >> Destinations >> 10 Day Sicily Road Trip Itinerary Planner

A Sicily road trip is not just a bucket-list-worthy tour. It’s an experience connecting travellers with the heart of Italy.

A road trip through Sicily is discovering some of the most delicious food in the world. Getting lost in the heart of a street market, asking for directions, only to have 20 people shouting directives at you.

It’s the warmth of its people, the beauty of nature and discovering the story of ancient history. It’s also the simple pleasure of balconies covered in freshly cleaned laundry in quaint narrow alleyways. Sicily is one of those surprisingly romantic Italian destinations that will steal your heart.

Table of Contents

All these experiences make Sicily not just Italy’s most famous island but the big sis of the Mediterranean. A unique connector between Africa, Europe, and all things in between. Step into this generous land, and plan an epic Italian road trip, Sicilian style.

You Might Also Like : Discover the heart of Italy with these traditional Italian recipes by region and learn how to recreate centuries of culinary tradition at home.

A Guide to the Ultimate Sicily Road Trip

All your Sicily road trip planning is covered in this guide. It has all the information you need to circle the island by car, camping tips, a look at costs, and optional side trips.

Learn how to get there, what to eat, and how to make the most of your Sicilian adventure.

This tailored map covers all the stops in this guide to road-tripping Sicily.

A Little About Sicily

Sicily is located south of Italy and is the largest island in the Mediterranean . Its history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlements from 10,000 BC, and Greek temples and villas established around the 8th century BC.

Sitting close to Africa, only 96 miles from Tunisia, the island also has strong historical influences (or was ruled by) from Arabs, Normans, and Byzantines, to name a few. So, it’s fair to say, Sicily has come a long way to become the melting pot of cultures the island celebrates today.

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How to Get to Sicily

There are many ways to get to Sicily. The most popular is to cross the Strait of Messina by ferry from Villa San Giovanni -mainland Italy. The trip takes 20-40 minutes.

The costs vary – if you are crossing with a car, the season, and the time of your departure. However, you can expect to pay about 30-40 EU one way, with a standard-sized vehicle.

You can book your trip online or at the counter.

If you choose to cross by train, you’ll still need to take the ferry, and then reconnect with the train once you reach the island. If, for example, you hop on a train in Napoli, the journey would take just over 6 hours and cost 20-30 EU.

You can book your trip online or at the station.

Another option is to fly. There are two international airports in Sicily. One in Palermo -Sicily’s capital- and one in Catania. You can fly in pretty much from anywhere.

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How to Plan Your Sicily Road Trip

The main challenge of planning a road trip across Sicily is to pick between a slew of stunning places. That’s also a huge perk. Regardless of where you go, you will undoubtedly enjoy the unique experiences of every spot you visit.

With this in mind, this guide offers an itinerary covering many of Sicily’s main sights , plus additional and optional stops. The aim is to give you the most comprehensive experience of Sicily in 10 days. 

Where to Start Your Sicily Road Trip

If you are crossing from mainland Italy, you’ll start your journey in Messina. The big decision to make here is whether to begin clockwise or anticlockwise . As most of the main sights sit on the coastline, you’ll loop and finish in Messina. Or, if you are flying out – Palermo, or Catania.

Stops like Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and Ragusa will take you away from the coast of Sicily and across the countryside.

It’s important to know there will be a lot of driving involved on this trip.

Where to Stay in Sicily

If you choose to stay in hotels, then you could easily spend a few nights in the main city hubs. However, if you are looking for a camping experience, it’s best to stick to small villages. Finding campgrounds around cities like Palermo, Catania, or Taormina can get complicated.

Sicily is well-developed for tourists, but finding parking in crowded city areas can be a curse. With narrow and tangled streets, many hotels don’t have designated parking so you will have to find your own.

Camping in Sicily

Camping, if done right, can be such a fantastic way to experience Sicily.

There are plenty of campsites all around and across the island, especially if you are not fussy about quality. So it is possible to just turn up and claim a spot for the night. Camping this way takes all the hassle out of bookings, check-in times, and most importantly, parking. Although, can be hit and miss, especially during peak season.

Wild Camping In Sicily

In the case that you don’t find a campsite, it’s important to have an understanding of the rules regarding wild camping in Italy.

Wild camping in Italy is forbidden by law. Yet, it’s not enforced equally across the country.

In the case of Sicily, the island is quite populated, so it can be hard to find a suitable area that’s off the road and not within private land. Of course, again, this is not legal, so only resort to wild camping if you have no other choice or are tired of driving and desperately need to catch some sleep. Although, in this case, it would be recommended to check locally for a hotel for the night. 

If you want to experience nature in full and decide to camp in Sicily, even if for only a few nights, make sure you plan and bring your camping and hiking gear with you.

Search Accommodation in Sicily Italy

If you decide to take the hotel option, you can search current hotel rates in Sicily here or use the map to see the best rates by region. 

Always check to see what each hotels cancellation policy is before booking. 

Be Prepared for Driving in Sicily

It may seem quite obvious, but driving in Sicily will demand 100% of your attention. Always prepare for the unexpected.

You’ll see everything from kids jumping on the front seat without a seat belt to cars without doors, and folks trying to intimidate you on the road. Try to relax, enjoy the experience, and go with the flow. Be careful, but also be assertive – stand your ground and don’t let other drivers fluster you.

Also, be mindful of the number of kilometres you’ll need to drive from spot to spot and plan your daily itinerary to allow for delays.

Tips for Driving in Sicily

• Driving in Sicily can seem chaotic, but there is a particular flow to it. A kind of organised chaos. Road rage can happen, but it’s merely a matter of how “expressive” people get on the road. Find a balance between not being carried away but holding your ground. Otherwise, other drivers may not respect you.
• The roads connecting the main sights along the coast are not great. Keep an eye on bumps and locals skipping road signs.
• Local coastline, inland, and southern Sicily roads are toll-free, except for the A20 and the A18 that are part of the freeway.
• You could indeed connect many towns with the freeway, but where the magic happens is on the local roads.
• When it comes to speed limits, it’s essential to know; even though many people don’t seem to respect them, you can get hefty fines if caught on camera.
• The same goes for parking. It can be hard to figure out if you can or cannot park in some areas. The worst part is, you may end up receiving a ticket at your residential address, and you’ll have to pay it. So, even if it seems no one is watching, try not to test your luck.
• Urban areas have a speed limit of 50 km per hour. State, provincial, and local roads range between 110 and 90 km per hour. Highways top it up at 130 km per hour.

Tips for Renting a Car in Sicily Italy

• Always rent from a trusted agency. Some local agencies have sort of ‘unwritten’ rules that could catch you out.
• Some agencies may try to accuse you of damaging the vehicle. Always take photos when you pick up your rental and when returning it.
• Take your international driving license with you -required for renting a car in Sicily.
• Read your contract, and be aware of the excess fees and type of insurance.
• If possible, rent a small car. Streets are narrow, and parking spots are extremely limited in crowded areas. In most cases, it is better (and less stressful) to park just outside town and walk or hop on a bus.

Rental Car Recommendations in Sicily

If you don’t want to rent a car on the mainland and take it on the ferry, you have various options for renting a car through reputable rental car companies once in Sicily. 

We always use Discover Cars as they aggregate the best local deals and have no fees and free cancellation. 

From Messina: If you arrive by ferry, you can collect a rental car from Messina – Compare car rental rates here for Messina .

If you are flying in, you can collect cars from all the main airports. This is the cheapest option if renting once you arrive in Sicily as there is a greater choice of companies. 

Check car rental rates for Palermo Airport here .  

Check car rental rates for Catania Airport here . 

Tip: Always check if you have car rental insurance included on your travel insurance or with your credit card company before paying any additional to the rental car company. 

What to Eat in Sicily

When travelling around Sicily, eating is just as important as sightseeing. Sicily is a big island, and each region boasts its typical cuisine and fresh produce. With this in mind, you will need to allocate some time to experiencing culinary Sicily. 

While Sicilian food deserves an article of its own to cover all the incredible food you can discover, here are five delicious traditional foods to try during your visit to Sicily.

Going to Sicily and not trying a cannoli should be considered a crime. If you could try only one thing, this would be it. Why? It’s tough to find proper cannoli anywhere else in the world. This cheap bite deserves a place in heaven. Cannolis consist of a fried tube-shaped pastry that’s filled with sweet ricotta.

Semi-frozen sugar and water in a range of flavours make up for a perfect summer treat. The Sicilian Granita is notable because it’s not a sorbet, nor an ice-cream. It’s more of a slushy, with crispy ice-flakes.

Arancini di Riso

An essential Sicilian snack. These fried crispy rice balls come filled with Ragu -minced beef tomato sauce-and peas, or mozzarella cheese. You’ll find these everywhere around Sicily.

Pane con la Milza

A locals’ favourite in the area of Palermo, the Pane con la Milza is a sandwich made with soft bread -like a burger bun- and stuffed with spleen. A delicious treat if you are into offal. 

Pasta alla Norma

Moving to the other end of the island, the Pasta Alla Norma is a traditional pasta dish from Catania. It consists of eggplant, basil, tomatoes, ricotta, and macaroni: a real belly and heart filler suited for vegetarians.

10-Day Road Trip Itinerary Sicily

Now that you are well on the way of becoming an expert on all-things-Sicily, it’s time to get the wheels turning.

This itinerary will start from Messina. After your arrival, you’d be heading East and do a full loop around the island, finishing on day 10, again in Messina.

It’s also possible to do it the other way round. The reason for starting toward the East is to tackle a bit of adventure at the beginning and catch some relaxing beach fun in the last few days.

Day 1 

Arriving in messina, and driving to taormina with a night by the etna volcano.

You’ve made it to Sicily – Benvenuti . As soon as you leave the ferry in your rental car, start driving south on the coast of Eastern Sicily. If possible, try to cross in the morning so you can spend the day enjoying your first stop, Taormina.

Taormina is one of the most touristic spots in Sicily. Known as the Sicilian St. Tropez, the hilltop village is an excellent starter for your Sicilian tour. It’s worth spending about half-day there, but it’s not the best overnight option if you are on a budget.

Walk along the main street – Corso Umberto, sit at the Piazza Aprile and contemplate the incredible panoramics from the top.

Greek Theatre of Taormina

Head to the Greek Theatre of Taormina for your first dose of Sicilian ancient history.

Tickets cost 10 EU, and the visit takes just under 1 hour. The theatre’s opening times change throughout the year – As a reference, during the summer season, it stays open until 6:30/7 pm.

There are quite a few options you can consider for the night. You could either stay around Taormina or drive a bit more and stay closer to Mount Etna. On day 2, you’ll be visiting the mighty Sicilian volcano so it might be worthwhile positioning yourself the night before if you have time. 

Another option is to spend the night anywhere near the East side of Mount Etna -which is enormous. If you’d rather be close to your starting point on day 2, then Nicolosi, Linguaglossa, or Zafferana Etnea should be your go-to’s. These villages are about 40 minutes to a 1-hour drive from Taormina and provide easy access to Mt Etna’s Funivia.

In the end, it will depend on whether you feel like driving a bit more, and if you are planning to devote a full day to exploring the Etna.

Get to Taormina from Messina

• Messina to Taormina via Highway A18/E45 – Just under 1 hour, 53 km.
• Messina to Taormina via local route SS114 – 1.5 hours, 51 km.

Day 2 

Exploring mt etna with a night in nicolosi.

On day 2, you should aim for an early start. There are different ways to explore Etna, so get your research together and map out a day to suit your preferences.

You can walk up, take the Funivia and then hike for about 1.5 hrs to the summit. Or you can book a tour. You can find numerous half and full-day tours here for all activity levels.

It’s important to know, once you get to the Rifugio Sapienza, you’ll be approached by tour guides telling you it’s not possible to hike up on your own. Don’t listen to them. Go to the gondola station, and they’ll give you the latest information.

As Mt Etna is always active, conditions may change from day-to-day.

A great way to explore without sweating bullets on the ascent is to drive to the Rifugio Sapienza, take the gondola, and then hike up for about 1.5 hrs. Take your time to explore and enjoy the incredibly unique landscapes.

If, after your hike, you still want more, drive towards Etna Nord and stop by one of its ‘rifugios,’ which are like huts or B&Bs, with restaurants -like the Rifugio Citelli .

The areas surrounding the huts also offer hiking. Etna Nord isn’t next to the main crater, but it’s still beautiful and worth exploring if you want to get a bit off-the-beaten-path.

Try to spend the night in Nicolosi or any of the villages on the way to Catania.

Getting to Rifugio Sapienza from Nicolosi or Zafferana Etnea

• From Nicolosi – 25 minutes’ drive, only 18 km.
• From Zafferana – 30 minutes’ drive, 19 km.

Nicolosi to Catania and Syracuse

On day 3, you will make your way back to the Sicilian Coast. A quick drive from Nicolosi, Catania offers quite decadent sights, baroque gems, and great markets.

Catania is the 2nd largest city in Sicily. Often overlooked by those favouring Palermo, Catania has its own identity and is excellent for spending either a half or a full day.

Focus on walking along the city’s main square and streets from where you’ll see the cathedral. Spend some leisure time at the Piazza Duomo and then make your way to the Castello Ursino.

Market lovers should head to the Catania Fish Market and the Piazza Carlo Alberto market. Vendors start selling their goodies around 7 am or 8 am every day and finish around 1 pm or 2 pm. The main market stays open till 7 pm on Saturdays.

Finish your day in Syracuse, about a 1-hour drive from Catania.

Getting from Nicolosi to Catania and Syracuse

• From Nicolosi to Catania – It’s a 30-40 minutes’ drive, 16 km via SP10 or SP42.
• Catania to Syracuse – Just over 1 hour, 65 km via E45 and SS114.
• It’s also possible to drive along the SS114 all the way from Catania to Syracuse along the coast.

Syracuse to Ragusa

Spend the morning wandering the streets of Ortigia, the tiny island next to Syracuse. The city is over 2500 years old and was one of the most important centres of the Mediterranean. If Magna Grecia is your thing, then Syracuse is well worth a stay.

Visit the Temple of Apollo, the Piazza Duomo, the Fountain of Arethusa, and walk to the Castello Maniace -on the southern tip of the tiny island.

Avoid driving into Ortigia, as it’s pretty much impossible to find a parking spot where you won’t get fined.

After exploring the ancient jewels of Syracuse, head towards one of the most beautiful countryside villages on your road trip around Sicily– Ragusa Ibla.

Ragusa Ibla is about 1.5 hours from Syracuse. The town is divided in two – Ragusa, and Ragusa Ibla. Ragusa Ibla, the historic baroque village, is where you’ll spend the afternoon.

What’s particularly special about Ragusa is the trip from Syracuse and how it characterises the Sicilian countryside. You’ll drive up and down hilly roads lined with olive trees, lemon trees, and distant farms.

Ragusa is a beautifully preserved baroque village on a hilltop. With countless stunning houses and churches, the best way to see Ragusa is to simply wander around up and down its pebbled maze of streets.

It’d be best to spend the night in Ragusa. On day 5 of your Sicily road trip, you’ll be heading to Agrigento, which is nearly a 3-hour drive. Of course, another option would be to stay half-way in between if time allows.

Getting from Syracuse to Ragusa

• Via SS194 – It’s an 80 km drive that takes about 1.5 hours.
• If you wish to add an extra stop in Noto, take the E45 and then the SS115. It’s also about 1.5 hours – 89 km.

Ragusa to Agrigento and Valley of the Temples

On day five you’ll head to Agrigento, where you’ll spend a half-day touring the Valley of the Temples. The drive takes between 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic.

The Valley of the Temples, 2 km off Agrigento’s centre is a UNESCO Heritage site where you’ll get to experience the best of ancient Greece. Some say if you want to learn about the Greeks, you need to visit Sicily.

The Valley of the Temples is enormous. One thousand three hundred hectares of pure history. You’ll be visiting the main areas where massive Doric temples still stand proud. Agrigento was originally called Akragas, founded in the 6th century BC.

As with Syracuse, Akragas was a significant colony that saw the construction of this massive complex of temples during the 4th and 5th centuries BC.

Visiting Valley of the Temples

The visit to the temples takes between 3 to 5 hours. Visitors should be prepared for a day under the blazing Sicilian sun as there’s not a lot of shade to save you from the heat.

The complex is open from 8:30 am to 8 pm, so you could easily check into a hotel or hostel, enjoy the town’s cute historic area, and head to the temples later in the afternoon.

Tickets cost 12 EU and can be purchased online or at the Valley’s entrance.

Getting from Ragusa to Agrigento

• Between 2 to 3 hours on route SS115 – 132 km.

Agrigento to San Vito lo Capo

Ready for some downtime? San Vito lo Capo is a cute tiny town blessed with crystal clear waters, a beautiful beach, and a lively pedestrian street.

The pool-like waters, white sand, and stunning landscapes are ideal for some proper beach time of sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding.

Take it up a notch and visit the ‘Riserva dello Zingaro’ for more splendid nature and summer vibes. Although, before heading to this natural reserve, check the official website -it can be closed due to fires or other reasons.

Getting from Agrigento to San Vito lo Capo

• Between 2.5 to 3.5 hours -depending on traffic- on route SS115 and SS119.
• For a drive on the coast and a side-trip to Trapani and Erice, stay on route SS115 all the way to San Vito.

San Vito lo Capo

Keep the chill going; you deserve it. If you haven’t visited the Riserva dello Zingaro, this would be a great day to do so.

However, if only one day of beach time and sun-basking is enough for you, you could spend half of day six exploring more of Agrigento -and head to San Vito later in the afternoon.

Alternatively, check out the beautiful old town of Erice and visit the Norman Castle.

If you are more of a city-seeker, then head to Palermo for a head start in this fabulous city.

San Vito lo Capo to Palermo

There’s A LOT to see and do in Palermo. You could easily spend 2 or 3 days wandering its streets and tuning into Sicily’s capital.

Palermo is truly a tale of many cultures. It belonged to the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, to the Arabs, and the Normans. It was under the Arabs’ rule that Palermo flourished and surpassed Syracuse as the main trading hub.

Visitors can see the legacy of all these great cultures by visiting some of Palermo’s main sights. The ‘San Giovanni Degli Eremiti’ church, the ‘Palazzo dei Normanni’ castle, the ‘Capella Palatina,’ and the ‘Teatro Massimo,’ to name just a few top spots.

However, merely walking Palermo’s streets and observing people go by is already a traveller’s treat.

When it comes to markets, Palermo rules, the main markets are Vucciria, Ballaró, and Capo. They are all around the historic districts and kick the day off around 7-9 am, remaining open until 7 or 8 pm. The ‘Mercato del Capot’ closes at 1 pm on Wednesdays and Sundays.

You can spend the night in Palermo, or head to a campsite outside town.

Getting from San Vito lo Capo to Palermo

• The trip takes between 1.5 to 2 hours on route E90, or over 2 hours if travelling on route SS187.

Palermo to Cefalú

Prepare for the last stop of your Sicily road trip. On this day, you’ll head to Cefalú, one of the most famous villages in Sicily. Cefalú may have a little bit of everything – views, beaches, hiking, and great food, but the best of it lies in a golden glare lighting up just before sunset.

Cefalu has a beautiful historic centre and one of the most charming beaches you’ll ever see. If you are keen to work out a little bit, there are also some nice hikes as well as enjoying top views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from the ‘Rocca di Cefalú.

Try to spend your last night in Sicily in Cefalú, as this is truly a charming little town.

Palermo to Messina

It’s day ten, and it’s time to wrap up and head back to Messina to catch the ferry. The drive takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, so make sure to check your ferry’s schedule beforehand and allow for delays.

By now, you’ve eaten the best fresh food, mingled with the locals, sunbathed, connected with nature, and learned about the ancient cultures that thrived in Sicily’s abundant land. If you feel like weeping while you farewell the golden island, don’t blame yourself – it only means it’s time to plan your second Sicilian trip.

Know the Best Time to Visit Europe before planning your trip

More Towns and Islands Around Sicily

If you have more time to spare, or the energy to add more stops to your Sicily itinerary, then check these spots:

The main of the Egadi Islands, Favignana is a small paradise located off the coast of Trapani. There’s only one ferry operating the trip .

It’s possible to book the tickets online, and over the summer you’ll find many services throughout the day. The cost of a round-trip is about 23 EU -11.82 one-way, 30 minutes.

The Aeolian Islands

Visiting any or all of these 7 Unesco volcanic islands scattered along the Tyrrhenian Sea can easily become a trip in its own right. You could spend a week island hopping, hiking volcanoes, drinking sweet wine, and slowing down to match the islands’ flow.

Located off the coast of Sicily’s Northwest region, Messina, it’s also possible to visit the islands as a day trip departing from Milazzo – about 38 km from Messina.

As the departure points to the islands are between Palermo and Messina, this is a great way to finish your Sicily road trip or get it started if you decide to tour the island anticlockwise.

The Aeolian Islands are highly seasonal. If you visit over the winter months, you’ll find most shops and restaurants are closed. Check the islands’ ferry schedules and plan your itinerary. There are plenty of hydrofoil ferries heading there over the high season.

You’ll find Noto posted 38 km south of Syracuse. Noto is, just like Ragusa, a Sicilian Baroque gem. If you enjoy this architectural style, Noto should definitely be on your Sicily itinerary.

Savoca and Forza D’Agro

Attention Godfather fans. Do you remember Michael’s days in Sicily? Even though the story is set in Corleone, the actual scenes were shot in the medieval towns of Savoca and Forza D’Agro. One of the most remembered locations of the movie takes place at the Bar Vitelli, where Michael Corleone meets Apollonia’s father.

Both towns are only a 12-km drive from each other and can be visited within a half or a full day.

Bringing It All Together for the Ultimate Road Trip Around Sicily

You could easily spend two or even three weeks experiencing Sicily’s many villages, beaches, nearby islands, foods, and outdoor activities. The best way to plan your Sicily itinerary is to prioritise what resonates with you the most. Try to keep a balance between the main attractions and off-the-beaten, heart-filling little places.

As a last tip to make your stay in Sicily the most enjoyable, stay flexible. Don’t worry if you feel like changing plans last minute; some places will conquer your heart. Road tripping Sicily will be, in many ways, an intense adventure cloaked by the beauty and charm of the Mediterranean’s magic. Ci vediamo dopo, viaggiatori .

Discover Sardinia , Italy’s other most beautiful island.

About the Author

Martina Grossi

Martina is a travel writer and SEO Specialist from Argentina based in New Zealand. Like many Argentinians, Martina has Sicilian ancestors, which has taken her to explore the island in depth not once, but twice. Lover of road-tripping, camping, hiking, and nature, her travels focus on connecting with a destination’s vibe, other than ticking items off a bucket list. Find out more about Martina at The Global Curious .

How to Plan a Trip to Sicily

Exploring the isle of plenty.

In the late 18th century, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a one-man TripAdvisor, came back from a Grand Tour–style Italian sojourn and famously gushed, "To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything." With a review like that, it's no wonder the Mediterranean's largest island soon became a fixture on the moneyed travel circuit. (And that was well before the 1958 publication of the Prince of Lampedusa's wildly popular novel, The Leopard.) Studded with a staggering array of antiquities and ringed by emerald-colored beaches, Sicily may technically belong to Italy, but it is an autonomous region with its own laws and parliament, cultural traditions, sensational food (a riotous fusion), and turbulent history. Set between Europe and North Africa, it served for centuries as a chew toy for nearly every world power, from the Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans to the Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards. (Even the Vikings wanted a piece.) Mount Etna, the very much active volcano that hulks over the scorched northeast of the island, has erupted countless times. Allied forces bombed Sicily during World War II, then wrested it from the Axis powers. And then there's the Mafia, which took root in Sicily in the 1800s and had its most violent explosions during the 1970s and '80s. All of this has given the island its uniquely scruffy, magnetic glamour.

You can see it by yourself, but you benefit enormously by having a guide and driver—both to give you a sense of Sicily's depths and to help you navigate its tangles. Whatever you do, leave enough time for loafing and lingering, for it is then that Sicily is at its most seductive.

TAORMINA & MOUNT ETNA

Built on a hillside above the Ionian Sea, Taormina is a walkable assemblage of crooked stone alleyways and Gothic churches looming over grand piazzas—a picture-perfect playground for the elite of another time. The Greeks built a clifftop theater here in the 3rd century BC, and the Romans later supersized it, as was their way. From the late 1880s until well after World War II the town attracted an international set of the rich, the famous, and the famously scandalous (Diana Mitford, Greta Garbo, Picasso, Hemingway, D.H. Lawrence, Truman Capote—the list goes on and on). It's now the epicenter of tourism on the island, so start early by strolling around the Greek Theater and the gardens of the 19th-century Villa Comunale; both have stunning views of the sea and the often snowcapped Mount Etna.

As the main street starts to fill, climb up the stone steps that splinter off it to narrow alleys hemmed in by balconies draped with bougainvillea and lace tablecloths. Around 3:30 you'll meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel (see page 97 for recommendations) and head off on a two-hour fishing trip around Naxos Bay, which is known for its electric blue grottoes and neon orange coral. If you're lucky your guide will be Checco and your captain Vittorio, two friends who have been trawling these translucent waters for more than 50 years. Vittorio, who also owns the Pizzichella restaurant back at the beach, might grill up your catch for supper, but if you strike out on the fish front, stay for dinner anyhow; you can feast on simple seafood and pasta while overlooking the small, pebbly beach and craggy Isola Bella.

A new guide will be picking you up for your daylong trip up the slopes of 11,000-foot Mount Etna. The drive takes an hour, and the landscape morphs quickly from a tropical panorama of palm trees, orange groves, and perfumed yellow broom trees to a cool and lush pine forest and then to jet black lava fields sprouting stark white birch trees—a setting straight out of a Scandinavian thriller. At Rifugio Sapienza, a ski resort at 6,266 feet that was destroyed by lava in 2002, you can set out on a hike or a bike or donkey ride around this strange forest, which is velvet-green in patches, charred black in others. Well before you reach Rifugio Sapienza, stop in the village of Linguaglossa for an espresso and a snack. The medieval town, where most of the façades are fashioned out of black and gray volcanic rock, has a somber quality, but the pastries at the 80-year-old Pasticceria l'Alhambra are sheer joy, made by hand using the almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, oranges, and lemons that thrive on this part of the mountain. Before you go wild, bear in mind that lunch—either a picnic or at the excellent Sine Tempore (see page 97 for details)—will be a full-on feast.

This is Godfather location day. Why bother? Because the movie sites all happen to be in ridiculously picturesque hilltop villages, such as Savoca, Forza d'Agrò, and Castelmola, that seem little changed since the late 1800s, with their cast iron lampposts and piazzas inlaid with stone mosaics, not to mention dizzying views of sharply ridged, sun-scorched hills fringed by the sea. (Plus, you'll have a private guide, so you can spend as much or as little time in each place as you like.) Tour groups know these spots well, but at the 18th-century Castello degli Schiavi, in the town of Fiumefreddo, you'll have the run of the place and time with its ebullient owner, Baron Platania. Several scenes from Francis Ford Coppola's trilogy were shot in the courtyard, but far more intriguing is the house itself, a Baroque treasure trove of antiques and family portraits collected by a noble family over 300 years. If your Godfather guide and driver is Stefano, persuade him—it won't be difficult—to take you to his favorite spot for arancini (rice and ragu molded into an orb and fried until golden). It's the favorite snack of Sicily, and you'll become a connoisseur of them—as well as of cannoli, Sicily's other great gift to humankind—by the time you leave.

You're leaving Taormina today and heading to the island's southeast coast. But first continue with your tour of the homes of the Sicilian nobility with a stop at Villa San Giuliano, an organic citrus farm in the town of Villasmundo. You aren't here to the see the home, as splendid as it is, but the garden, one of the finest on the island. A British landscaper, Rachel Lamb, oversees the seven immaculate acres, with considerable input from the estate's owner, Marchese Giuseppe di San Giuliano (husband of the late shoe designer Fiamma Ferragamo). Tour the grounds—which feature a wide variety of succulents, an aromatic walled garden, and a row of Washington palms that seems to march all the way to Mount Etna—before settling down to a terrific home-cooked meal at the villa. If, after a few hours, you think, I could live here, you're in luck: The family occasionally rents out Villa San Giuliano along with an adjacent, beautifully furnished guesthouse. You get the cook and the gorgeous pool, too. (And you'll be in good company. Kate Moss, among others, has played house here.) But for now, the next stop is Syracuse, a 45-minute drive away, where you'll be spending the next two nights.

A favorite holiday destination among well-heeled Italians, the city of Syracuse is like a sprawling archaeological site, only much more fun. Most everyone stays in Ortigia, the historic center, and so should you. Eminently walkable and achingly charming (and touristy, yes, but even so…), Ortigia is connected to the mainland by short bridges and otherwise surrounded by ancient seawalls. Within those walls is a tangle of cobblestone streets with numerous candlelit wine bars and boisterous trattorias, echoing piazzas paved in pearlescent stones, grand Baroque palaces from the 18th century, Spanish palaces from the 15th century, and Greek ruins from the time of Plato. Cicero extolled the beauties of Ortigia, and he clearly wasn't the only one smitten. Look hard enough and you'll find remnants of nearly all the factions that have seized control of Sicily over the years, from the Byzantine Greeks to the Normans.

You may be content to wander on your own amid the glorious mishmash of architectural styles and taxi over to Syracuse's official archaeological zone to see its Greek theater and Roman amphitheater. Our recommendation: Take a guided walking tour for at least half the day (for a proper introduction to Ortigia itself ), then spend the second half at one of the small beaches or bathing platforms outside the seawalls, or at a café in Piazza del Duomo, lingering over your aperitivo (a Campari soda, perhaps), served with enough nibbles to keep you sated for hours.

Syracuse makes a good base for visiting southeastern Sicily's many top draws, including the cluster of Late Baroque towns (there are eight, but you can easily visit three in one day). If at this point you're tired of the mere thought of yet another picturesque village, go to the Vendicari nature reserve instead. A sprawling seaside sanctuary less than an hour's drive from Syracuse, Vendicari encompasses some 3,700 acres of marshlands, sandy beaches, and rocky coves, all stitched together by walking trails. In the fall thousands of flamingos, cranes, and other Instagrammable birds stop here en route to Africa—a far cry from the typical Italian beach scene.

And, finally, Ragusa Ibla (Ragusa's Old Town), the sweet spot between Noto and Modica. It's more graceful and compact than the latter, but it feels, despite its historic treasures, more modern than Noto—perhaps because of its thriving restaurant scene, which includes a pair of twoMichelin-starred restaurants (see "Staying and Eating," page 97, for details). If you're in the mood for a full-fledged gastronomic experience, this is the place to have it.

Yes, you've seen a few Greek ruins during the past week—but you're headed to the mother lode today. Before you leave Syracuse, however, be sure to head back to Piazza del Duomo to take part in Sicilians' favorite morning tradition: a coffee with a granita (maybe almond or blood orange) and a fresh-baked brioche for dipping. Agrigento (a threehour drive away), which was established as a Greek colony on a ridge above Sicily's southwest coast 150 years after Syracuse, grew into one of the most important commercial centers in the Mediterranean. The remains, including the soaring columns of the Temple of Concordia, rival the temple ruins in Greece. Agrigento's archaeological park—with its irresistible sobriquet, Valley of the Temples—spreads over 3,000 acres bordered by a grove of olive and almond trees. Rather than just wandering about, you'll have an archaeologist as your guide to put all those stones in context. If you're lucky enough to land Marco, he will deftly shift from details about the ancient town to current events: the Sicilian Mafia, the present immigrant crisis, the island's unemployment problem. It's a history and sociology lesson all in one, made even more captivating by the backdrop. In the warmer months especially you're better off going late in the afternoon; the honey-colored stone of the temples is radiant in the late day light, and you'll get the breezes off the Mediterranean in the distance.

Modern Agrigento isn't nearly as scenic (owing to a number of construction projects gone awry), but it's a lively place, particularly on weekend nights. After dinner in town (see "Staying and Eating," page 97, for recommendations), head to the wine bar 'Nzolia to rehash your antiquities lesson and study up on the local tipple. It may come in handy tomorrow.

EN ROUTE TO PALERMO

The first is a visit to the Tasca d'Almerita family's Tenuta Regaleali wine estate, a fabulous stone farmhouse with Persian blue doors surrounded by miles of undulating vineyards. You'll tour the Tasca d'Almerita winery and sample a few glasses, then tuck into the kind of lunch you'd expect in this setting—or better, given that the estate is also home to one of Italy's top cooking schools, named for the founder, the late Anna Tasca Lanza. Now run by her daughter Fabrizia, the school (and the sublime ingredients it uses) attracts a roll call of international chefs. (Alice Waters has stopped by.)

Your second culinary excursion is to a tiny, modest village. Sant'Angelo Muxaro (pop. 1,400) is one of the oldest towns in Sicily's interior, the kind of place where you still see widows clad all in black for years and old men, in suspenders and wool coppola caps, playing cards in the piazza. After you visit the cheesemaker and the pastry shop—and help the baker, Maria, prepare the pizza for her 66-year-old oven—you'll sit down to a merry lunch, possibly at a table in the middle of the street, with bottomless carafes of red wine. No matter which excursion you choose, you'll be rolling into Palermo in the evening, just in time for an aperitivo to help ease you into Sicily's frenetic capital.

One of the Mediterranean's great unsung destinations, Palermo is a magnificent jumble of exquisite beauty and decay, abundance and austerity, and organized chaos. If you take a short walk through the center of town, you'll pass, in moments, sumptuous palazzos, elegant squares, chic restaurants, immaculate pastry shops, and enough artifacts left over from the various foreign invaders to keep a voracious traveler occupied for weeks.

But the city still has an unruly side. The traffic is appalling, certain neighborhoods are seedy, and for every newly spiffed-up Baroque fountain there's a centuries-old building caked in grime or still in ruins thanks to an Allied bomb. A guide is an absolute must in a city this dense. You'll want a local to help you weave in and around the web of streets, as well as to help you dissect the layers of history and cultural traditions that are fused together at the city's most remarkable sights.

For example, Palermo's most popular attraction, the Norman Palace, was a repurposed Arab fortress, with a few stone walls built by the Phoenicians and a chapel blanketed in glittering mosaics by the Byzantine Greeks. A stone's throw away is a 12th-century church, San Giovanni degli Eremiti, that looks mightily like a Moorish mosque, red domes and all. (Both places attract mobs of tourists, so visit first thing in the morning.)

If another history lesson is just too much for your last day in Sicily, take a quick walk through La Vucciria market (where the food stalls are as lustrous and lavish as the Byzantine mosaics) and then head to the beach. You have many to choose from within an easy drive of Palermo, including picture-perfect Zingaro reserve, a turquoise cove at the end of an easy 20-minute hike. Nearby, the pretty holiday town of Scopello makes for a good lunch stop. If the trattorias look strangely empty when you arrive in the afternoon, that's because everyone is at the Pane Cunzatu sandwich shop, scarfing down the delectable tomatocheese-anchovy sandwiches in the shade of a giant fig tree.

For your last night in Palermo, just wander—past the concerts in the squares and the sidewalk cafés filled with patrons sipping negronis, past the speeding Vespas and the giant anti-Mafia banners and the statues of mermaids and kings. This Sicilian mini-metropolis feels as cosmopolitan and ancient as Rome, but with much better beaches. You're scheduled to fly home the following day, but odds are you'll already be daydreaming about your next trip back. Nine days is just enough time for Sicily to get under your skin, for you to be exhilarated by its many intricacies and feel compelled to return. It may not be its own country, but you won't find any other place like it. Just ask Goethe.

STAYING AND EATING

DAYS 1–3: TAORMINA AND MOUNT ETNA

For privacy, location, and cachet, you can't beat Taormina's Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, which is right next to the Greek theater (from about $509, belmond.com ). Hotel Metropole, a smaller, sleeker place in the middle of the action, has a lovely terrace and pool deck, and the sea-facing rooms exude a luxurious brand of Italian modernism (from about $505 for a sea-view room, hotelmetropoletaormina.it ).

Trattoria Tiramisù, the more casual of the two restaurants called Tiramisù in Taormina (this one is near Porta Catania), whips up delicious versions of Sicilian specialties using typical North African ingredients, such as linguine con cernia all'eoliana—seafood pasta with mint, almonds, and raisins (via Apollo Arcageta, 9).

La Capinera Restaurant, set above the train tracks in Taormina, might not be the quietest Michelin-starred restaurant in the world, but the sea views and seafood tasting menu are worth living with a little noise ( pietrodagostino.it ). In the town of Castiglione di Sicilia, an atmospheric village on the lower slopes of Mount Etna, Ristorante Sine Tempore makes an excellent (albeit gluttonous) lunch stop. Start with the delicately fried eggplant and local cheese drizzled with honey and pistachios (via M. Baracca, 2, ristorantesinetempore.com ).

DAYS 4–6: SYRACUSE

The San Giuliano family occasionally rents the main Villa San Giuliano (in Villasmundo, on the way to Syracuse) and a nearby farmhouse (from $18,250 per week; this is for the main house, which sleeps 10; for the main house plus the "Palmento" building, which sleep 16 together, the price is $26,000 per week; sicilyluxuryvillas.com/villas/san-giuliano ). Guests have all the house staff: the cook, the butler, the waitress, and the gardener.

The Grand Hotel Ortigia is probably the best hotel in Syracuse. It has a great location overlooking Ortigia's marina, but the guestrooms could use some sprucing up (from $177, grandhotelortigia.it ).

The cool kids tend to stay at Hotel Gutkowski, a stylish (if fairly bare-bones) place in a weather-battered building across from the seawall (from $88, guthotel.it ).

The only true luxury hotel for miles is the Seven Rooms Villadorata, which is a designer's dream set in an 18th-century palazzo in the center of Noto (from $209, 7roomsvilladorata.it ).

Sicily has a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants, many of them scattered along Syracuse's southeast coast, including the island's top tables: Ristorante Duomo ( cicciosultano.it ), which sits on a quiet side street in Ragusa Ibla, and Locanda Don Serafino ( locandadonserafino.it ), where the tables are set inside a candlelit cave and the wine list is a master class in Italian vino.

Also in Ragusa Ibla is the mod MAD restaurant. It has an extensive menu, but the stars are the light-as-air pizzas, such as the Mazzareddi, which is topped with sardines, octopus, and mussels ( magazzinidonnafugata.it ).

In Ortigia, small, jolly trattorias abound, including La Gazza Ladra, which dishes up such local comfort foods as eggplant caponata, baked artichokes, and almond pudding, and Ristorante Porta Marina, for fresh-off-the-boat seafood ( ristoranteportamarina.135.it ).

For lunch head to Ortigia's daily outdoor market and grab a table at Caseificio Borderi, a wildly popular cheese shop that makes addictive sandwiches to go; it also serves boards piled high with local cheeses, salamis, and other antipasti, along with wine, naturally ( caseificioborderi.eu ).

DAY 7: AGRIGENTO

Hotel Villa Athena may not be quite as luxe as the website would have you believe, but the location is unmatched: It is just outside the archaeological park, with dead-on views of the Temple of Concordia from the garden, the swimming pool, and several of the guestrooms (from $209, hotelvillaathena.it ).

Just down the street from Agrigento's city hall, Osteria Expanificio serves Sicilian dishes with a twist—and an expert hand. Try the warm octopus salad with melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, or the rolled sardines with pine nuts and raisins ( osteriaexpanificio.it ).

DAYS 8–9: PALERMO

Palermo's hotel scene, like Syracuse's, is mostly lacking, but the Grand Hotel Wagner, in a tony section of town, is perfectly comfortable and within a short walk of the shops and cafés on pedestrian-only Via Principe di Belmonte (from $209, grandhotelwagner.it ).

On the outskirts of Palermo you can sleep like a king—or at least a count—at Count Lucio Tasca's exquisitely restored 17th-century Villa Tasca, which has four grand guestrooms, a swimming pool, and a lush garden (from $550, villatasca.com ).

On one of the main streets of Palermo, Via Vittorio Emanuele, Buatta Cucina Popolana feels like a place you might stumble across in Rome, with its slick interior and fleet of young servers. But this kitchen specializes in Sicilian (and particularly Palermitan) fare, such as baked anelletti, a smallish timballo of pasta and veal ( buattapalermo.it ).

This story appeared in the Fall/Winter 2016 Travel Issue.

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5 days in Sicily itinerary: how to see the best of Sicily in less than a week

5 days in Sicily itinerary ideas: Eastern Sicily and Western Sicily road trip ideas for all types of travelers.

Sicily is a wonderful destination, blessed with beautiful archaeological sites, stunning cities, beautiful sea and some of the best food in Italy.

Visiting Sicily, you are likely to see very beautiful places pretty much no matter where you go however, Sicily is big so some planning is necessary.

In this article, I going to recommend two Sicily itineraries, both for 5 days in Sicily: one focuses on the East side of the island and one focuses on the West, both including Sicily highlights and places I believe a first trip to Sicily should include.

5 days in Sicily itinerary in Eastern Sicily

Eastern Sicily is a wonderful part of the island, with a varies landscapes and avaiable experiences.

Our itinerary started from Taormina, which we reached by train from Rome, but you can easily also explore this area arriving at Catania international airport, Messina, Palermo and even Comiso (small, Ryanair airport in the South of the island).

This itinerary requires a car however, some locations such as Taormina – Catania – Siracusa area connected by good trains.

Day 1 – Taormina

Taormina is one of the most famous destinations in the whole of Sicily, a small town known glamour, views and a stunning ancient theater that is unique in the world.

Taormina is a small center and a place you can visit in one day or that you can use as a base to explore the area.

The main things to see and do in Taormina are:

• Visit the ancient theater , a stunning archaeological ruins in a scenic location – this is one of the most beautiful historical sites in Italy and, in my opinion, the world.
• Visit the pretty city center and notice the small churches, alleys and colorful shops of this manicured town
• Admire the view over Mount Etna and the sea from the town’s gardens
• Take the gondola to small Isola Bella and its pretty beach

You can find our full guide to Taormina here .

Day 2: Siracusa

Siracusa is a beautiful city on the eastern Coast of Sicily, South Catania, famous for a stunning historical city center and one of the most famous archaeological parks in Italy: Parco della Neapolis.

For this Sicily itinerary, I have devoted only one day to Siracusa but you can easily spend at least two days here and not run out of things to do. If you add local excursions, you can actually spend a week here and not run out of things to do!

A day in Siracusa is however very satisfactory and you can see the two most famous parts of town: Ortigia (city center) and archaeological park.

I recommend you start your day in Siracusa in Ortigia, the historical center of town. Ortigia is geographically a small island but it is easy to access via pedestrian bridges that link it to the modern part of town.

Once you are in, you will lovely small alleys, elegant squares, the famous Arethusa Fountain, already in existence at the time of Siracusa’s foundation, the remains of the temple of Apollo and one of the most beautiful squares in Italy: Piazza del Duomo.

In the afternoon, i recommend you take e bus shuttle to the archaeological park.

Highlights here are the ancient Greek theater, still now in use for representation of classical Greek theater performances and the latomie .

The Latomie are quarries excavated in tall rock faces: in ancient times, they were used as labor camp for war prisoners and were one of the reasons Siracusa was feared in the antiquity as a powerful and dangerous enemy.

the latomie are impressive and the entrance is reachable by an easy path with luscious vegetation: a must see.

Good to know : this archaeological park is one of the easiest historical sites to visit in Italy with kids, so a perfect stop for families too.

You can find my guide to one day in Siracusa here .

Day 3: Marzamemi and Noto

I recommend you spend you third out of these five days in Sicily exploring two very different and very beautiful towns: Marzamemi and Noto.

Marzamemi is a small fishing village on the South-eastern Coast of Sicily and it is a place you may have sen photos of thanks to its huge Instagram fame.

Indeed, the place is a delight.

The village has a main square now filled with local restaurants with outdoor tables and colorful decor and it is also famous for beautiful tonnara (tuna fishing station), that is now used for special events.

The village is tiny and pretty, and a perfect stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, I recommend you visit Noto, the town giving the name to the UNESCO famous Val di Noto, known for it important and stunning baroque churches and architecture.

Noto is a delight, especially if you see it at sunset, when the sun sets over the cream tones of the elaborate facades of this beautiful town.

This is a wonderful place to sightsee in the afternoon and also a good locality to spend the night.

Day 4: Ragusa Ibla and Modica

Ragusa Ibla and Modica are two beautiful towns in Southern Sicily part of the same UNESCO World heritage area as Noto.

They are both famous for incredible baroque architecture and Montalbano lovers will also recognize this area as the backdrop of the TV series episodes!

Both towns are worth seeing and they are close enough to each other that you can see them both in one day.

Good to know : as well as architecture, Modica is famous for the production of some of the best artisan chocolate in Italy !

Day 5 – Piazza Armerina and Palermo

Day 5, the last day of this 5 day in Sicily itinerary, is a good day to see two more important and beautiful sights in Sicily: Piazza Armerina, a beautiful town with a historical city center and an important Roman Villa, and Palermo.

Pelermo deserves more than one day but this is the case for most of the locations in this itinerary and I think it is good to know you can get a taste of this beautiful city even with only a few hours in the city center.

Piazza Armerina is one the way and you can easily stop for a visit, if you prefer to limit your time in the big city and want to soak up a last afternoon in a typically Sicilian town.

5 days Western Sicily itinerary

If you prefer to explore Western Sicily, then I recommend you follow this 5 day itinerary, perfect if you want to stay West of Palermo and see locations such as Erice and the famous Valley of the temples.

Day 1 – Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily, the island’s biggest center as well as one of its most beautiful destinations.

The city is home to several architectural styles ranging from Arab Norman style buildings to Baroque churches and in this sense is a fantastic place to get a sense of the wealth of cultures and nations that called Sicily home over the course of the centuries.

Significant buildings and churches are scattered around the city and have that distinctive character of grandeur mixed with decaying splendor that is so typical and so charming about Sicily.

not to be missed are its cathedral, palazzo dei Normanni and Palermo’s market, a wonderful place also to taste authentic and truly delicious Sicilian food.

Day 2 _ Scopello and Zingaro Reserve

Day two of this Sicily itinerary leads you to a stunning area that is very close to Palermo yet feels a million miles away: the area of San Vito lo Capo, the Zingaro Reserve and Scopello.

This is a part of Sicily with wonderful nature.

The sea and beaches here are out of this world beautiful and the small towns pleasant and scenic: Castellamare del Golfo is lovely and well served while the small village of Scopello is charming and offers incredible views over the bay below.

Scopello is also home to a stunning Tonnara, film lovers will recognize from Ocean 12!

The Zingaro Reserve is protected and beautiful and near this area you also have the stunning temple of Segesta, one of the most evocative ancient sites in Sicily.

Day 3 – Erice and Marsala

On this day, I recommend you visit Erica and the Marsala salt pans, two location in Sicily that truly showcase how beautiful and varies this island is!

Erice is a small, medieval town perched on a hilltop above Trapani.

Is a place of huge charm and very different from what you imagine a Sicilian town to be as it is often chilly, its high position and vegetation making it home to a peculiar micro-climate.

Erice has a wonderful historical center and stunning views and can be easily visited even in a short time.

Marsala is not far from Erice and Trapani and is famous not only as producers of the sweet Marsala wine but also for its salt pans, wonderful to visit.

The salt pans are large, flat areas where sea salt gets harvested following ancient methods.

They are interesting to visit but even more, they are beautiful.

The low water have pink hues and there are some traditional windmills that make the whole area look out of a storybook!

This is a very special place and unique to this part of Sicily, especially if you come her later in the afternoon when the sun starts to set and the colors warm up

Day 4 – Valley of the Temples and Scala de’ Turchi

The Valley of the temples is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Italy and a place like no other.

Here, you can see wonderful Greek temples in various state of conservation, dating back up to the VIII century BC.

The park is stunning and scenic: my recommendation is to visit early in the morning before the sun gets too strong. The valley is dry and sunny so, while wonderful, can be hard in summer or in the hottest hours of the day.

After a visit to the temples, you can spend time visiting another Sicilian marvel: Scala de’ Turchi famous for natural steps of white rock sloping into the deepest blue sea.

Day 5 – Cefalu’ and Monreale

On the last day of this 5 day Western Sicily itinerary, I recommend you head back north and visit two localities: Cefalu’ and Monreale, before heading back to Palermo.

Once again, these two places are very different form each other but both worth seeing.

Cefalu’ is a seaside village, with a lovely harbor and a pleasant center, perfect for a last day of sightseeing and sea views.

Good to know : Cefalu’ is lovely for families and one of the places we recommend you visit if you are in Sicily with kids .

Monreale on the other hand is famous for a stunning duomo and it a locality art lovers should not miss.

Both these destinations are close to Palermo and they are easy stops before getting back to the city or its airport.

Sicily travel resources

I highly recommend you use the car for these Sicily itineraries: my go-to car rental agency is Avis, although we also had a good experience with Morgan Autonoleggio at Comiso Airport.

The best entry points to Sicily are:

• Palermo Punta Raisi Airport
• Catania Fontanarossa Airport
• Comiso Airport – tiny, this is a budget airline airport
• Messina – ferry arrival port from Calabria and mainland Italy
• Messina / Taormina / Catania / Siracusa: trains from Rome

My go-to website for accommodation in Sicily is booking.com

My go-to website for excursions and tours is GetYourGuide

id this is your first time planning a trip to Italy, I recommend you check out our 101 travel tips for Italy , while if you are traveling with kids, I suggest you also check our tips for traveling to Italy with a baby or toddler .

I hope you enjoyed our recommended 5 days in Sicily itinerary ideas. Safe travel planning!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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The most scenic road trips in Sicily: volcanoes, baroque beauty and fabulous food

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Explore the beauty of Sicily with our pick of the best road trips on the island © VvoeVale / Getty Images

As the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a grand road trip destination that doesn’t just stop at the beautiful blue waters that fringe its rocky coastline. Winding pastoral roads meander through the hilly hinterlands near Palermo and up to the dark volcanic slopes of the testy Mount Etna . At the crossroads of history, Sicily’s relics of the past are delivered by the dozen with Greek and Roman ruins and medieval and baroque towns that will charm you with their beauty. 

Here are some ideas to plan a thorough Sicily road trip – including which inner village is hiding the best cannoli.

1. Around Mount Etna

Best road trip for adventurous wine-lovers

Catania—Catania; 162 km (100 miles); allow one or two days

You could circle Europe’s most active volcano in a day by car, but a longer trip gives you more time to appreciate the unique terroir of this microregion that produces some of Sicily’s finest wines. You’ll find unique stays in the small towns throughout the region, like Palazzo Previtera , a family-owned boutique hotel in Linguaglossa, or accommodations in the countryside with a cozy agriturismo or winery stay. 

Also consider making space in the itinerary for a climb to the top of Mount Etna, or take the car as high as it can go to Rifugio Sapienza.

2. West Coast

Best road trip for families

Palermo—Marsala; 221 km (137 miles) allow two or three days

Heading west from Palermo, you’ll find some of the best swimming spots in Sicily, including the family-friendly resort town of San Vito Lo Capo and inspiring historic sights like medieval castles and fortresses. 

First, though, stop by the temple of Segesta to see a remarkably intact two-thousand-year-old temple. If you’re outdoorsy, you can also try the trails at the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro , or continue your journey towards Erice , an impossibly-placed village with an impressive fortress. Stop in Trapani , the largest city on Sicily’s west coast and your access point to catch a ferry to the Egadi Islands. Keep driving along the coast, and you’ll end up in Marsala , where you can tour the salt flats, relax on more sandy beaches and sample its sweet dessert wine.

Planning tip: You can skip the drive up the mountain to Erice by taking the cable car from Trapani. 

3. Palermo to Agrigento

Best for small-town adventures

Palermo—Agrigento; 165 km (102 miles); allow one or two days

Leaving the commotion of Palermo behind you, start this road trip with something sweet by first stopping in the town of Piana degli Albanese, where Sicilians widely agree Extra Bar Petta makes the best cannoli on the island. Afterward, you can pass through the real Corleone to learn the sobering truth of the mafia and the inspiring story of the anti-mafia movement at CIDMA . 

From Corleone, you can go east and make a detour to pay tribute to Old Blue Eyes in Leccara Friddi, the proud ancestral home of Frank Sinatra. Or head west to Giuliana, where an incredible view of the southern part of the island is available from the old castle walls. You’ll finish this tour of small-town Sicily in Agrigento and Valle dei Templi , a sprawling archeological complex dating back to ancient Greece.

Local tip: No matter how you get to Agrigento, the famous Scala dei Turchei beach is always worth a visit, especially if you want to relax after a long day of sightseeing in the ruins.

4. Palermo to Catania

Best for coastal sightseeing

Palermo—Catania; 317 km (197 miles); allow two or three days

Heading east from Palermo, the beaches will get rockier, so be sure to make that first stop in sandy  Cefalù , a charming seaside village and a popular vacation spot. Follow the coastal route to Milazzo , where you could catch a ferry to the Aeolian Islands ; or continue towards Messina and consider going all the way to the point of Torre Faro, where you will be able to see mainland Italy across the Strait of Messina’s narrowest point, only 5km wide. 

Follow the coast south to Taormina , where it’s worth finding a hotel on the low road near Isola Bella — like the Panoramic Hotel , which gives you a picture-perfect view of the island — and taking the cable car up to the mountainous city to enjoy the luxury shopping and Mount Etna Views from the awe-inspiring Greek Theatre . On the way to Catania from Taormina, consider hopping off the highway and booking a guided hike to the summit of Mount Etna.

Planning tip: The fastest – but less scenic – way to make this trip would be to cut through the island. Although, it does offer a chance to see the medieval city of Enna , which played an important role in the island’s history.

5. Syracuse and the Southeast

Best for ancient and baroque gems

Catania—Ragusa; 170 km (105 miles, allow two to three days)

Starting from Catania, follow the coastal road south to Syracuse and Ortigia, where you can wander the ancient ruins and stone quarries of the ancient city and the historic island that promises great nightlife on top of historic attractions. Keep going south, and you’ll reach Noto , one of the most highly-praised towns in Sicily for the beauty of its baroque architecture. After a stroll around town, continue down the coast to the small beach town of Marzemmi for a little respite on the Ionian Sea. 

Once you’re satisfied with the southeastern tip of the island, turn west to continue your baroque journey in the smaller towns of Modica and Ragusa , which are particularly well-known and sought-after gastronomy destinations, with an array of Michelin-star restaurants like the two-star Duomo being the prime foodie attraction.

Planning tip: The best way to enjoy one of the ancient Greek theaters outside of a daytime visit is to book a ticket to a performance. Just make sure to buy your tickets in advance. 

Tips for driving in Sicily

Driving in Sicily is not for the faint of heart. The road culture is aggressive, and you will see other drivers pulling off daring maneuvers mid-gridlock. You will need a heightened sense of awareness and to take extra care when driving in big city centers. Also, be prepared to find rough road conditions if taking shortcuts in rural hilly areas. You may have to stop for animal crossings. 

When driving in small medieval towns, prepare yourself to navigate narrow and steep streets, and don’t put all your trust in the GPS. When in doubt, find a central place to park and go on foot if you can, especially if the area is marked Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL), which means you could be fined if you enter by car anyway. Look for the white circle with a red outline. 

This article was first published November 2021 and updated March 2024

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2 weeks in Sicily: The Ultimate Itinerary + My Best Tips

2 weeks in sicily: the perfect 14-15 days itinerary.

You’re planning to go 2 weeks in Sicily and are looking for a  complete itinerary for your stay?

You’re in the right place!

A good news: 14, 15 or 16 days in Sicily is the ideal time to visit the island’s must-see attractions.

From Catania to Palermo , passing by Taormina , Syracuse , Agrigento Valley of the  temples , Selinunte , Cefalù and more, here is the ultimate itinerary to visit Sicily in 2 weeks .

For each stage of your trip, in addition to the places to visit , I will also give you the best accommodation suggestions according to your budget. And of course, I will give you my best tips and tricks to make your stay unforgettable!

Where to stay in Catania ?

Where to stay in syracuse, where to stay in ragusa, where to stay in agrigento , where to stay in selinunte, where to stay in trapani, where to stay in scopello, where to stay in palermo, where to stay in taormina, other activities for 2 weeks in sicily, renting a boat in sicily, sicily tours, you’re traveling in sicily these articles will help you.

A quick note before we start : For this 2 weeks tour in Sicily , we rented a car. This is clearly the easiest way to visit the island!

For your road trip , I strongly recommend you to book your car in advance on the internet, through a serious website: fake damage scams (+ deliberate damage, like a key scratch for example) are very common in Sicily .

Personally, we’ve booked through Rentalcars.com , for 2 reasons:

• The main one : On their website, you can subscribe for a cheap “complete insurance”. Much cheaper than those you can buy from the rental cars companies! If the car rental company invoices you for damage (real or fake one), Rentalcars.com will refund you the full amount within 7 days.
• The site allows you to compare prices between the different rental agencies, and it’s the best way to get a good deal.

It’s quite simple, every time we went to Sicily, we were charged extra for damages (between 450 and 850 euros each time). Hopefully, Rentalscar’s insurance has been super effective!

So don’t underestimate this problem, and book your car the smart way now to travel with peace of mind!

1) Catania (2 days)

To start your 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily , the best is to land at Catania airport . Your return trip will also be from Catania for a good reason: to limit car rental costs. It will cost you less to pick up and drop off your car at the same rental agency.

When you arrive in Catania , you will have about half a day to visit the city.

Here is a short itinerary that will allow you visit the city’s highlights:

The best is to start by the Piazza del Duomo , famous for the elephant fountain and the Duomo di Catania (Catania Cathedral). Then take the via Etnea , the city ‘s main street. From there, you can see the Etna , the most famous volcano in Sicily!

Take a walk around Piazza dell’ Universita to admire the two palaces: the palazzo dell’ Universita and the palazzo San Giuiliano .

Then go to the Villa Bellini gardens , a very pleasant place with many fountains. And if you have some time left before dinner, you should definitely go to the Via Crociferi to see the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena and a few nice churches.

If you plan to spend a bit of time in Catania, I recommend you one of these 2 guided visits. Simply click on the orange links to book them:

• By Segway , a fun way to discover the city
• A guided visit + food tour , on foot, with local food tasting.

For your second day in Sicily, the serious things will start. It’s time for a day trip to Mount Etna volcano!

From Catania , the easiest and safest way is to opt for an organised day trip. Theses tours take around 6 hours and are offered by many agencies. They include:

• Climbing by car to Etna (They will pick you up at your accommodation)
• A guided walk between the ancient craters and lava flows
• The exploration of a lava cave
• Going to the view point of the Valle del Bove
• The equipment
• The tour guide cost

Voyage Tips Advice If you want to save some money on your car rental, you can get it now, on the 3rd day.

If you wish to visit Catania during your tour in Sicily , I recommend you to read my detailed article: The 12 best things to do and see in Catania .

• City-In Hostel B&B : Located opposite Ursino castle. Dormitory bed from 17€, breakfast 3€. Free Wi-Fi. Free public parking. Tip: Avoid rooms on the street side, they are a bit noisy.
• Tra L’Etna E Il Mare B&B : Located 1 kilometer from Piazza Duomo. Large room with nice decoration from 50€ per night. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi. Strong points: Free private parking. This is my favorite in Catania for its great value for money!
• Il Giardino Di Piazza Falcone : Located about fifteen minutes’ walk from Piazza Duomo. Large bright room from 68€ per night. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi. Public parking at 10€ per day. Strong point: the large garden with terrace!
• Duomo Suites & Spa Catane : Located at only 100 meters from piazza del Duomo, the heart of Catania. Beautiful large and bright double room starting at 190€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the perfect location, the comfortable bed, the view from the terrace. It’s my favorite hotel in Catania, perfect for a luxury stay!

2) Syracuse / Ortigia Island (2 days)

The 2nd leg of your 2 weeks trip to Sicily takes you to Syracuse and its old town: Ortigia island.

For your first day, you will take your time to visit the beautiful island of Ortigia .

You can do the following itinerary:

• Start at the Piazza del Duomo
• Then go to the market and the temple of Apollo
• Stroll along the quays of the fishermen’s harbour.
• Visit Castello Maniace
• Stroll through the small alleys of the old town
• Admire the sunset from the Fountain of Arethusa .

If you don’t feel like walking a lot and want to visit the town of Ortigia in a more original way with a guide , you should really opt for a Segway tour :

Fore your 2nd day, I suggest you to start by having a walk along Syracuse cycle path , along the seaside. It really and offers a beautiful view of Ortigia island and the cliffs!

The starting point of the cycle path is the Piazza dei Cappuccini (it has horses statues, you can’t miss it). You can go there from Ortigia by foot, it will take around 30 minutes.

The walk is very pleasant and completely flat. There is no shade, so grab some hats and sunscreen with you!

If you want to do something else than visiting the city on foot, you can opt for an original activity: a kayak tour!

Accompanied by an instructor , you will spend the morning discovering the most beautiful landscapes of the coast .

To Book your guided kayak trip in Syracuse, you simply need to click on the button below:

It’s the best way to start your day before going to Syracuse must-see attractions in the afternoon: The Neapolis Archaeological Park.

Things to see inside the park:

• The Roman amphitheatre dug into the rock
• The Greek theatre
• Hieron II’s altar, used to sacrifice animals
• Ear of Dionysius , an ancient limestone quarry. It’s more than 20 meters high!

To end the afternoon, you can choose an unusual visit: the San Giovanni catacombs . They are quite unknown to tourists and located near the archaeological park.

If you need more info about Syracuse, you should read my detailed article about the city: The top 15 things to do in Syracuse.

You want to know everything about the archaeological park? In this case, the best is to opt for a guided visit!

The one on Getyourguide is great, and it also includes the guided visit of Ortigia.

To book it, it’s simple, you just have to click on the button below:

When visiting Syracuse, you should sleep on Ortigia island rather than in Syracuse . Prices aren’t necessarily higher and the environment is much more pleasant! Here are the best deals in town:

• TRE Archi B&B : Located in a quiet environment, 50 meters from piazza del Duomo. Colorful and authentic room. Free Wi-Fi. Double room from 50€, breakfast included.
• II Duomo : Located on Piazza del Duomo, you cannot dream better as a location. Large room with classic decoration. View on the garden or the square. Free Wi-Fi and paid parking service. Double room from 80€, breakfast included.
• Alla Giudecca : Located at 5 minutes on foot from the Piazza del Duomo. Large and bright double room starting at 120€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: The beautiful view from the terrace, the location, the good breakfast.
• Caportigia Boutique Hotel : Located at 1km from Neapolis archaeological Park (not on Ortigia Island). Beautiful modern double room starting at 200€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: The amazing breakfast, the staff, the jacuzzi on the terrace. If you want something modern, it’s the place you need to book! It’s the best for a luxury stay in Syracuse.

3) Noto / Ragusa / Modica (1 day)

For the third stage of your 14 days trip to Sicily , you can tour the 3 baroque cities listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Noto, Modica and Ragusa . They are among the most beautiful cities in Sicily, especially for their typical historical center.

I really advise you to leave Syracuse quite early in the morning, around 8h30-9h. To visit the 3 cities, it will take you a full day.

• In Noto , you can walk along the corso Vittorio Emanuele . That’s where the majority of the Baroque palaces and churches to visit are located!
• In Modica , take a walk in the medieval historic center to discover the wonders of architecture.
• In Ragusa , don’t miss the Piazza del Duomo with the San Giorgio Cathedral .

For this itinerary, it’s best to visit Ragusa last and sleep there , as it’s the closest to the next stage: Agrigento Valley of the Temples !

• Le Scale Sul Barocco: This cute Bed and Breakfast is located close to the center. The hosts are very friendly, and some of the rooms even have a balcony! At 49€ per night, it’s the best “budget” choice in Ragusa!
• La Dimora di Piazza Carmine Hotel : Located between the old town and the historical center, 500 meters from the San Giovanni Cathedral. A spacious and very comfortable double room from 75€ per night, breakfast included. strong points: the perfect location to visit the city on foot, the view, the friendly staff, the copious and varied breakfast. It’s my favorite in town for it’s amazing value for money! Book early!
• Aurà Guest House Iblea : Located 300 meters from the Duomo di San Giorgio. Brand new, very bright room starting at 85€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the warm welcome of the host, the location, the calm environment, the breakfast with local products and fresh-squeezed fruit juices.
• Hôtel San Giorgio Palace : Located next to the Duomo, in the Ragusa Ibla district. The hotel is located in a carefully renovated old monastery with spacious and luxurious double room from 98€ per night, with breakfast included. What we loved: the charm of the hotel, the geographical location, the warm welcome, the terrace with a beautiful view for breakfast. The best choice for a luxury stay in Ragusa!

4) Agrigento (1 day)

In 14 days in Sicily , you will have time to visit the famous Valley of the Temples , located next to the city of Agrigento

This archaeological site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , allows you to admire 8 temples , including 2 remarkably preserved ones.

Visiting the site on foot takes about 2h30 and costs 10€ per person.

As the most famous historical site of Sicily , it’s really a must-see attraction during your 2 weeks tour!

The best is to go there in the morning: It’s less hot, and the tourist buses arrives around 9h30-10h. So try to be there at the opening, at 8h30!

By doing so, you will have the time to go to Agrigento old town for lunch and visit the historic center in the afternoon.

At the end of the afternoon, the place to be is for sure the Scala dei Turchi, a magnificent limestone cliff going down into the turquoise sea. Sunsets are really amazing there!

If you like photography, no doubt you will want to spend a bit of time there. It’s also a great place to just enjoy the view, swim, or even have a drink at the beach café terrace.

At the end of the day, the best is to find an hotel around Agrigento .

If you plan to go there, you should have a look at my detailed article about Agrigento: The 10 Best things to do in Agrigento .

As there are many tourists visiting the Valley of the Temples, you should really book your skip the line tickets in advance . At least you will not have to wait in line under the heat! This entrance ticket also includes access to Agrigento regional archaeological museum.

To buy it, you just have to click on the button below:

If you want to learn even more about history , there is also a ticket that includes an audio guide. It needs to be booked by clicking here.

And last but not least, there is a new, very fun way to visit the Valley of the Temple: Doing a guided tour on an eletric scooter.

It needs to be booked in advance by clicking the button below:

Please note that the e-scooter guided tour doesn’t include the entrance ticket. It needs to be booked separately by clicking here.

• B&B Sorahnia – Design House: It’s located away from Agrigento city center and 4 km from the Valley of the Temples. Modern double room with terrace from 50€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the location is quiet, a very welcoming host, an exceptional home made breakfast and free private parking. It is my favorite in Agrigento for it’s exceptional value for money!
• Colleverde Park Hotel: Located 2 kilometers from Agrigento city center and 15 minutes’ walk from the valley of the temples. Classic but bright double room from 68€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the large garden with a view of the temples, and the Sicilian breakfast.
• Villa Athena Hotel : Luxury hotel located in the heart of the valley of the temples, 200 meters from the temple of Concorde. A huge double room with a well decorated and spacious interior, with a magnificent temples view, starting from 205€ per night, breakfast at 18€. Strong points: the restaurant with its panoramic terrace overlooking the valley, the exceptional location with private entrance for the valley, luxury and refinement, swimming pool. It is the best choice for an exceptional stay in Agrigento .

5) Selinunte (1 day)

Let’s continue this 14 days trip in Sicily and go to Selinunte.

Agrigento and Selinunte being relatively close, you will have the time to take a few breaks on the way.

The best places to see are:

• Torre Salsa nature reserve
• Heraclea Minoa beach
• The beautiful small town of Sciacca .

Depending on what you will visit, you will have your lunch in Sciacca or Selinunte . If you arrive in Selinunte around lunchtime, you should go to the waterfront, there are many cafés and restaurants there!

In the afternoon, you will visit Selinunte’s archaeological park. It’s just at the entrance of the city, you can’t miss it!

As the archaeological site is divided in 2 parts, the best is to go there by car . You will need to take it to go from one part to the other.

The entrance ticket is 6€ and you can choose, for an additional 6€, to take the tourist train that goes around the temples.

The park is quite large and allows to admire many temples , more or less well preserved. You can easily spend the whole afternoon there if you are on foot and want to discover the whole place.

For dinner, return to the seafront! Personally, we ate at the DAG restaurant and we didn’t regret it.

• Agrisicilia (Relax Mare e Natura) : It’s located 10 minutes’ drive from the archaeological park. A Large double room with sea view from 45€, breakfast included. Strong points: the very nice setting in the middle of olive trees, the calm environment, the kindness and tips from hosts, the free private car park. This is my favorite for it’s excellent value for money!
• Terrazo di Venere la Reserva: A B&B located 20 minutes’ walk from the beach and 4 km from the archaeological park. A very comfortable double room with a nice decoration from 80€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the big garden, the home made breakfast, the private and free parking.
• Il Vigneto Resort: Located 5 kilometers from Selinunte park, in the village of Porto Palo . Spacious and bright double room from 100€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the view on the vineyards and the surrounding countryside, the large swimming pool, the calm environment, and the delicious breakfast.

6) Trapani (2 days)

The next stage of this 14 days itinerary takes you to Trapani .

From Selinunte , take the road that goes to Mazzaro del Vallo and then to Marsala . It’s not the fastest, but it’s definitely the prettiest one, because it will take you through the SP21 . This road, known as the Salt Road , goes along the beautiful salt ponds from Marsala to Trapani . It’s one of the must-see sights in the region! In souvenirs shops, you will find a lot of postcards representing these salt ponds and the mills that were used to process salt.

Arriving in Trapani for lunchtime, you can choose a good restaurant in the historic center or opt for a quick lunch. Personally, I often prefer the second option for lunch, but don’t worry, I catch up in the evening!

Then, as you are in the old town , you can take a short digestive walk through the alleys and have a walk along the seaside.

Then it is time to go to Erice , one of the highlights in the region of Trapani . This perched village overlooking the city is known for its magnificent views of the surrounding area, but also for its narrow streets and medieval castle .

To reach Erice , you can choose between going by car or by cable car . Visiting the village takes about 2 hours. Don’t miss Maria Grammatico’s famous pastry shop for a snack break!

That’s pretty good first day in Trapani, isn’t it?

For your second day, you should definitely visit one the Aegadian islands . Easily accessible from Trapani by boat, they offer some of the most beautiful swimming spots in the area. And as they can be discovered by bike or on foot , it’s a great opportunity to do a bit of sports and enjoy the calm!

Favignana is the biggest island and the best served by boat, so it’s probably the best choice for a first visit. It’s also the most accessible for families (easy and flat paths).

Find all the information about Trapani , Erice and the Aegadian Islands in my article: What are the best things to do in Trapani ?

To visit Levanzo and Favignana on the same day , you can opt for a cruise from Trapani .

The boat first stops for 2 hours in Favignana and then for 1 hour in Levanzo . Lunch served on the boat is included in the price, and you can enjoy a few swimming breaks during the day.

For information and reservations, simply click on the button below:

• Moderno  Hotel : The hotel is located in the heart of Trapani old town . Spacious and comfortable double room from 55€ per night, breakfast at 5€. Why I like it: the ideal location, close to restaurants, the beach and the port to take the ferry to the Aegadian Islands.
• Trapani inn  Hotel : Located in front of the ferries to Aegadian Islands departure. Modern and well decorated double room from 72€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: located in the heart of the city, a very friendly staff and an excellent breakfast. It’s the best value for money in Trapani!
• San Michele  Hotel :Located 5 minutes’ walk from the port, also in Trapani old town. Spacious double room with carefully decorated decoration from 82€, breakfast included. Things I loved: the quiet location, the attentive staff, a good breakfast and large Italian-style showers!
• Residence la Gancia: Located in the heart of Trapani, at 30 meters from the beach. Modern studio apartment with a fully equipped kitchenette starting at 125€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the rooftop terrace to take your breakfast or see the sunset, the great location and the studios design.
• Firriato Hospitality – Baglio Soria : Located at 7km from Trapani center, in the vineyards. Bright double room starting at 200€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the very quiet place, the superb breakfast, the view, the swimming pool, the very helpful staff. If you don’t mind being a bit away from the city center, this is the best choice for a luxury stay in Trapani!

7) Scopello / Zingaro Nature   Reserve (1 day)

Not far from Trapani , there is the beautiful Zingaro nature reserve , which is the 7th stage of your tour in Sicily .

I advise you to park at the southern entrance of the reserve because it’s the closest to Scopello , the must-see town of the area. The car park is large and there is a small food truck selling drinks and food. It’s the last place where you can buy something before entering the reserve, so make sure you have everything you need! (Especially water)

The Zingaro reserve entrance fee is 5€. Once inside, you will just have to follow a path overlooking the seaside , you can’t get lost! All along the way you will be able to swim in beautiful coves with crystal clear water. It’s really the ideal place to alternate (simple) hiking and relaxing moments at the beach.

If you choose to go back and forth from one end of the reserve to the other without a beach break, it takes about 4 hours on foot . And If you want to swim or just rest at the beach, you can easily spend the day there , if you have enough food and water (yes I repeat myself but it’s important especially when it’s very hot!)

One last tip: don’t go with flip-flops . There is mud and stones on the path, so a pair of sneakers or even better, hiking shoes, are required!

• Villa Anna: Located 5 minutes from Guidaloca beach and 10 minutes’ drive from Scopello. Modern and bright double room from 60€ per night, breakfast included. What we liked: the geographical location close to Scopello and the Zingaro nature reserve, the calm of the place, the reception of the host, the rooms with private terrace, the private free parking and above all the excellent and copious breakfast with home-made cakes. We highly recommend it. It’s my favorite choice in Scopello for it’s great value!
• Tenute Plaia Agroturismo: Located 500 meters from Scopello. Double room with classic decoration from 79 €, breakfast included. Strong points: the setting in the countryside, the view, the breakfast and the restaurant of the hotel, the swimming pool, the private and free parking.
• B & B Talia : Located in Scopello itself. Comfortable and colorful double room from 124 € per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the location and the view on the Tonnara, the kindness of the hosts, the home made breakfast.

8) Palermo (2 days)

Now it’s time to head to Palermo , the capital of Sicily, for 2 days.

For your first day in town, here is an itinerary suggestion to visit the main monuments of Palermo :

• Start by visiting the Palace of the Normans , a must-see in Palermo, especially famous for its Palatine chapel with golden mosaics.
• Stop to admire the red domes of the St. John of the Hermits church , located close to the Norman palace .
• Discover the magnificent architecture of the Palermo Cathedral and the royal tombs .
• Stroll through the historical centre to admire the numerous palaces and churches.
• Enjoy a bit of calm and greenery by going to the Foro Italico , the botanical garden and the Villa Giulia gardens .

And for your night in Palermo , I recommend you the best hotels a bit below.

For your second day in town, you can start by going to the Ballaro market , a colorful market with all the typical Sicilian products. A feast for the eyes and taste buds!

According to your preference and budget, I advise you either to:

• Visit the Massimo theatre and discover the backstage of one of the greatest operas in Italy (entrance fee: 20€)
• Go to the Sicily regional archaeological museum (free entrance) and learn more about history, with several remains coming from Selinunte Temple .

In the afternoon, I strongly recommend you to visit Monreale , known for its beautiful cathedral with 6500 square meters of golden mosaics . A must-see during your stay in Palermo !

The town of Monreale is really nice, a truly unforgettable experience!

In the evening you can spend a second night in Palermo .

For a complete list of things to do in Palermo, you can read our article: The 15 best things to do and see in Palermo .

In order to learn everything about Palermo’s historical center , the best is to opt for a guided visit in English.

During this 3 hours guided tour , you will explore the main monuments I talk about in this guide, including the magnificent Palermo Cathedral.

In addition, you will also try 5 typical Sicilian food like arancini or cannoli. And of course, Fabrizio, your guide, will make sure that you have a lot of fun . This is clearly the best way to discover the city!

To book this tour, simply click on the button below:

• A casa di Amici: Located 1km from the cathedral, this youth hostel offers beds in dormitory from 20€, breakfast included. Strong points: the geographical location, the terrace, the fact it’s super clean, the comfortable beds and the shared areas.
• Due Passi: B&B located 500 meters from the Massimo Theatre. Modern and bright double room from 63€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: very pleasant neighborhood, B&B well located, the warm welcome and availability of the hosts, quiet place and very good breakfast. This hotel offers the best value for money in Palermo under 100€!
• Alma Hôtel: Located 450 metres from the Massimo Theatre and 1.5 km from the Cathedral of Palermo. Very modern and stylish double room from 130€, breakfast included. What I liked: adorable owners giving lots of good advice, the rooms quality, and of course, the exceptional breakfast with home-made cakes.
• Porta Di Castro : Located in the heart of Palermo old town, at only 5 minutes on foot from Palermo Cathedral. Superb double room starting at 150€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: The perfect location, the hotel design, the awesome breakfast, and the very friendly staff. The best hotel for a luxury stay in Palermo!

9) Taormina (2 days)

To finish these 2 weeks in Sicily in style, let’s go to the small town of Taormina !

To get there, I advise you to take the Palermo/Taormina itinerary along the sea (about 30 minutes longer than the other road). This will allow you to quickly visit the small town of Cefalù . It’s worth it just for a photo souvenir in the bay. It’s one of the most emblematic views of Sicily!

After this little break, head towards Taormina .

Taormina is “the Sicilian Saint-Tropez”, with its many shops scattered all over the old town and the tourists crowds walking around. But the city is still very pretty and pleasant to visit.

When you arrive in Taormina , you can start by strolling through the old part of the city , walking along the Umberto Corso to Piazza IX Aprile . You should really climb the stairs to the Madonna della Rocca sanctuary for a bird’s eye view of the town.

Going back down after this small effort, you will have a lot of choice for your lunch!

If you want a peaceful and quiet environment, you should go “the sandwich way” and eat it in the Villa Comunale public garden . it’s a great place to enjoy a bit of shade and the nice view over the whole Isola Bella bay .

Talking about it, going to Isola Bella is scheduled for your afternoon. Walking and visiting are good but don’t forget, you’re in holidays!

It would be a shame to miss a moment of relaxation in this pretty little beach with crystal clear water . It’s also a nice place to do some snorkelling.

Many activities are available on site (click on the links to book):

• 2-hour guided kayak tour to discover the marine reserve around Isola Bella.
• 4-hour kayak tour, to explore a good part of the coast around Taormina
• Boat tour + Snorkeling : Get on the boat and enjoy several stops to observe the underwater fauna and flora around Isola Bella!

Another great way to enjoy Isola Bella is to go on a boat trip.

You can book the best boat trip in Isola Bella bay , with Graziella and her husband, the very friendly boat owners, by clicking the button below:

At sunset, head back up to Taormina to visit the Greek theatre . It’s just the best time of the day to visit it.

The next day, for your last day of holidays in Sicily (sorry to remind you😝), you should go to Castelmola .

At 5 kilometers from Taormina , this medieval village offers beautiful viewpoints on Etna and the valley below. Don’t leave without tasting a glass of almond wine, the specialty of the village. Don’t drink too much, your tour isn’t over yet!

In the afternoon, your should go to the Alcantara gorges . These walls, some of them more than 25 meters high , were formed by successive lava flows that cooled in contact with water.

The place is particularly impressive. However, you don’t need to bring your swimsuit, the water is really cold there! If you’re brave enough, you can just put your feet in the water, for the picture moment.

To access the gorges, I advise you to take the communal stairs.

They cost only 2 euros instead of the 15 euros guided tour! This “secret” path is just after the large parking lot on the left. You need to buy your entrance ticket in a small hut, on the right side of the road. A good tip to save you some money!

If you need more info about Taormina and how to access to the Alcantara gorges, you should read our article: Visit Taormina, The Top 10 things to see and do .

The Alcantara Gorge, on the other hand, is the ideal place to try canyoning . As you will be well equipped, you will not feel the cold and the descent of the river by canyoning in the middle of the gorges is really great!

This activity includes pick up at your accommodation (at all hotels located between Taormina and Catania).

Book your canyoning tour in the Alcantara Gorge by clicking on the button below

If you don’t need the included transport because you have rented a car for your roadtrip to Sicily , you can drive to the meeting point for your canyoning tour by yourself.

You should thus click here to book the Canyoning tour without transport (it’s obviously a bit cheaper!).

• Hostel Taormina :  Youth hostel located in the heart of Taormina. Bed in dormitory from 22.50€. Free Wifi. Breakfast not included. A little extra: a large panoramic terrace.
• Casa La via del Mare : Located halfway between the beach and the historic city centre of Taormina. Modern and bright room from 80€ per night. Breakfast included. Free Wifi. The plus: Free parking!
• Medea Residence : Located close to the main street of Taormina. Apartment with kitchen, modern and bright. very quiet. Outdoor swimming pool. Free Wifi. Private paid parking: 10€ per day. Minimum of 3 nights rental for 210€ = 70€ per night.
• Hôtel Villa Diodoro: Located at 5 minutes on foot from the historical center. Large and bright double room starting at 190€ per night, breakfast included. What we loved: the free private parking, the location, the swimming pool, the outstanding view, the very helpful staff. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Taormina!

You want to do more activities during your 14-15 days trip to Sicily ?

No problem!

I have created for you a list of the best activities you can do on the island.

Simply click on the links below for more information and to book:

1) Best activities around Catania

• Diving in the Gulf of Catania and in the Marine Reserve of the Cyclopean Islands
• A guided gastronomic tour
• Guided kayak tour along the coast to see the cyclopean rocks
• Snorkeling tour in the marine reserve to admire the underwater volcanic formations
• Mountain bike tour on the slopes of Etna (transport from Catania included)
• Half-day buggy tour on Etna
• 4-hour cruise with snorkeling break
• A small group cruise on a sailing boat + lunch .

2) Activities in Syracuse / Ortigia

• A guided gastronomic tour to discover Sicilian specialties.
• A guided hike to the necropolis of Pantalica.
• A kayak tour with a guide .

3) Near Agrigento

• Paragliding session

4) Activities in Trapani

• Paragliding over the west coast
• Guided tour to the Genovese Cave on the island of Levanzo (Aegadian Islands)
• Full day cruise to the Aegadian Islands from Trapani
• Quad Tour to discover the temple of Segesta.

5) Best activities around Palermo

• Boat trip in a small group, to explore the coast near Palermo or a private boat tour!
• Excursion to Monreale and Cefalu from Palermo
• Paragliding close to Cefalu
• An excursion to Mount Etna, from Paltermo – Transport and guide included

6) Near Taormina

• Segway-Tour in Taormina
• Guided gastronomic tour with tastings stops
• Paragliding
• Helicopter flight over Etna
• Day trip to the Aeolian Islands – Discover Panarea and Stromboli islands
• Day trip to the Aeolian Islands – Discover Lipari and Vulcano islands
• Special “The Godfather” tour , a must if you’re a fan of the movie!
• Excursion to the wineries on Etna + tastings.

And that’s it for your 14 days itinerary! It’s time for you to get back to Catania and catch your flight back home.

I hope for you the next holidays will be soon. And don’t forget, if you want to know more about your next destination, Voyage Tips can help you!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your itinerary in Sicily, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Sicily? 😊

So, what are your plans for your two weeks tour in Sicily?

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Sicily by yourself. (All Sicily articles are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Sicily tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Sicily tours by clicking the button below:

Sicily travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Sicily guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Sicily : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Sicily are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to Do in Sicily – The ultimate bucket list!
• Itinerary: 2, 3, 4, or 5 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East + West)
• Itinerary: 1 week in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (East coast)
• Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily – with all my best tips + accommodation suggestions! (West coast)
• Agrigento: The 10 best things to do in and around the city
• Catania: The 12 must-see attractions
• Palermo: The 15 things to do in the capital
• Syracuse: The 15 best things to discover
• Taormina: Top 10 things to do and must-see!
• Trapani: The 10 best things to do
• Agrigento Valley of the Temples: visit the archaeological site with my detailed guide!
• Zingaro nature Reserve: All my best tips to enjoy this wonderful hike

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 35 comments.

Your article is very informative.

I am going to Sicily in June-July for 14 days with a similar itinerary. Arriving in Palermo for 4 days. 1 and 1/2 days in Palermo proper. 2 day trips, 1 to Cefalu and 1 to Monreale (via public transportation). Then pick up a car @ the airport & drive towards Agrigento. Stopping in Erice/Trapani then going on to Agrigento (passing the salt road).

Staying in Agrigento for 5 nights with day trips to Ragusa and Siracusa.

Then going on to Catania (returning the car @ the airport). For 5 nights with day trips to Mt Etna, Taormina and one other beach town via public transportation.

Your article gave me some great insight.

I am glad my article helped you to plan your stay.

You will for sure enjoy your 14 days trip to Sicily, it seems you have a great itinerary!

Ciao, I love your itinerary about Sicily, it is the most complete, informative itinerary I have seen, complete with places to stay. I like it so much, I am going to follow your suggestions exactly! We intend to be in Sicily perhaps middle of April…is this a good time to go?

Thank you for your valuable information. I have been looking all over the web for an itinerary I could use and came across yours just by accident.

Sincerely, Ralph Blumenthal, Orinda, California

Hello Ralph,

I am really glad my article is helping you to plan your 2 weeks trip to Sicily.

April is a great month to visit, I would even say one of the best! They weather is good (just no too hot) and it’s a lot greener than in summer. The landscape is very beautiful at this season.

If you have any question, don’t hesitate to let me know.

Have a great day!

Hello Vincent! My wife and I just read your article on 14 days in Sicily, …sounds wonderful! I read above that April is “one of the best months” to visit… We were considering October, 2019, …but now perhaps April of 2020. What do you think: October vs. April?

Thanks a lot for your information!

Michael & Leslie Hillsboro, Oregon

Hello Michael,

I’m glad my article helps you to plan your 2 weeks trip to Sicily.

Both months, April and October are very good to visit the island. It is greener in spring for sure, but october also has advantages.

In April, water is too cold to swim, whereas in October, especially at the beginning of the month, it should be ok to enjoy the beaches.

If you have any other question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Enjoy your stay in Sicily!

Hi! Thanks for the help! We are doing it from Palermo, and loving it! I’m curious about the location you chose for the Sicily Itineray Cover, can you, please, share the location? Thanks

All the best!

Hello Alexandre,

I am glad you are enjoying the itinerary!

The cover photo is the Tonnara, in Scopello. You need to pay a small fee to go there.

Enjoy your 2 weeks trip to Sicily, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me!

Many tanks! 😄

Thanks for sharing this article and all of the tips. I am traveling to Sicily at the end of August and will be there for 16 days, starting in Palermo and ending in Catania. I will not be renting a car so will be in Palermo for 9 nights and Catania for 7 nights. Would you recommend that I do the guided tours for day trips, or is it easier to take the public transportation and go on my own? And what would you recommend for transportation from Palermo to Catania?

Thanks, Brad

As you have quite much time in Sicily, you can go with public transportations to the most touristic place/biggest cities.

For example, from Catania, you can go to Taormina and Syracuse as a day trip by bus, on your own. However, you will not have the time to see everything in only 1 day, so you will probably have to go twice or choose what you want to visit.

From Palermo, you can go to Valley of the temples (about 2 hours one way) or Trapani. It might be a bit harder to visit more remot places like Scopello or Monte Cofano Nature reserve however.

To go from Palermo to Catania, the best is to take the direct bus (2h45). It’s about 2 times faster than the train! (around 2h30 when the train is a good 4-5 hours).

Enjoy your 2 weeks in Sicily!

I am reading so much to try to decide a good home base from which to see all the places you mention.

I’d like to go for a month, probably May 2020. I won’t be renting a car. I would like to have an apartment and mostly cook my own food and “live” like a local. I’m wondering if it would be better to stay 2 weeks or 3/1 on each coast. I do mostly want to be on the east coast.

Not sue if it matters but I am a senior woman probably going alone. Your thoughts would be very helpful.

Hello Marianne,

If you want to stay mostly on the East Coast, I recommend you to do three weeks on the East and one week on the West coast.

The East part of Sicily is really more convenient if you don’t rent a car. The best for you if you want to experience the local life would be to stay in Ortigia island. It’s really pretty, there is a local market and it really feels like authentic Sicily, especially out of season.

Also, from Ortigia, you can visit Syracuse, Noto, Modica, Catania and Taormina by bus.

On the West coast of Sicily, you can stay around Palermo if you want to visit the city, or in Trapani if you plan to go to the Aegadian islands or Erice village.

Palermo is probably more convenient, as you can go on organized day trips from there to visit the surroundings (you can click on the orange links for more info and booking):

Monreale Cathedral and Cefalu Agrigento Valley of the Temple Erice Village, Segesta Temples and Trapani Salt Pans and even do boat tours to discover the coast and beaches.

If you have other questions to plan your trip to Sicily, don’t hesitate to ask me!

This is so helpful. Thank you so much. I will look into local tours. Are you saying it would be easier to stay in Palermo? I’m planning end of April 2020 into May.

If you plan to visit the West of Sicily as day trips from a single base, it’s better to stay in Palermo, yes.

For the East of Sicily, Ortigia island (Syracuse) is probably the best choice! (It’s nice and you there are buses going everywhere from Syracuse bus station)

We used your template for an April/May two week driving tour of Sicily. It was spectacular.

We loved the Palermo B&B and the grand old Coleverde and augmented with a few winery stays. As always we used Rick Steves tour guides throughout our stay for Siracusa, Valley of the Temples and Palermo.

We travel often and this was one of our favorite trips.

Thank you for posting this. It was a valuable tool for planning our Sicily adventure.

Thanks a lot for taking the time to write this kind feedback.

I am really glad my 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily helped you to plan your trip and that you enjoyed it!

Maybe see you soon on the blog for another destination 🙂

Hi Vincent,

Thank you so much for posting this wonderful itinerary of Sicily. My husband and I are heading there May 2020, however will only have 12 days in this beautiful place. If we were to reduce your itinerary by 2 days what would your suggestion be. We will be hiring a car. Your thoughts and recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Looking forward to your reply.

i am glad my 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily is helping you to plan your stay!

About removing 2 days for a 12 days itinerary, it would really depend on which activity you enjoy less.

For example:

– If you don’t want to visit too many archaeological sites, you can remove the day in Selinunte and the 2nd day in Syracuse. – If you’re not much into hiking, you should remove the day in the Zingaro nature reserve – If you don’t want to spend too much time in a big city, you should remove 1 day in Palermo – If you don’t want to bother taking the boat to Favignana island, remove that day.

Really, it’s up to you, and what you would like to visit. Removing any day will work 🙂

Enjoy your trip to Sicily, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

Loved your two week itinerary. We’re planning on going this June. We’re major foodies and beach lovers…..how would you update your itinerary to give us more beach time- (I’m sure the food part won’t be an issue). Thanks so much!!

Hello Robert,

I am glad my 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily is helping you to plan your stay!

If you want to enjoy more beach time, I would suggest you the following;

– On the day where you will visit Noto, Modica and Ragusa baroque towns, you can visit only one and spend the rest of the day at the beach.

– In Agrigento, you can visit the Valley of the Temples in the morning and then go directly to the Scala dei Turchi beach instead of visiting the old town.

– When going to Selinunte, you can skip the archaeological park visit and go to on of the beaches instead: Torre Salsa nature reserve or Heraclea Minoa.

– In the Zingaro Nature reserve, you don’t need to do the full hike, you can stop at one of the coves and spend the day there. If you prefer large sandy beaches, you can skip the Zingaro Nature Reserve and go to San Vito Lo Capo seaside resort beach instead.

– In Palermo, if you don’t want to visit too much, you can go to Mondello beach located nearby.

Enjoy your trip to Sicily and if you have other questions don’t hesitate!

Your information is very helpful.

If we were were to take three weeks to do your two week itinerary, would it be possible to do it without renting a car?

Thanks, Jim

Yes, you could do this 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily in 3 weeks by bus and train.

The only thing you had to skip is the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve (step 5 of the itinerary), as you can only go there by car.

At the moment, the Zingaro Nature Reserve is closed. It was unfortunately destroyed by a fire earlier this year and for now, no one knows when it will re open. Instead of going to the Zingaro, you can for example stay a bit more in Trapani and visit Segesta Temple or spend more time in Palermo.

You can have a look at these websites to plan your train/bus journey: – Trenitalia for train – AST (bus) / Sais (bus) / Interbus

Enjoy your trip to Sicily!

Hi Vincent, Your itinary/tips are so helpful with planning my August/Sept 2021 /4 week journey. Would you have any suggestions as to which city is best to start in ie Palermo vs Catania. Since I will be traveling with a companion for first 2 weeks then solo last 2 weeks. I would like to visit Malta if possible for 2-3 days sometime during last 2 weeks of solo part of trip. We both enjoy beaches, swimming ,exploring UNESCO sites/ towns, local cultural food/wine and art/ history experiences. Day trips with car rental. I need suggestions on how to organize trip . We are not so much hikers. Thanks for any feedback so appreciated

Hello Joann,

You can start in Catania and follow this 15-day itinerary in Sicily. You can do the whole tour of Sicily with your companion and then drop him off in Catania.

For the rest of your stay, you should visit the Aeolian Islands. The boats depart from the port of Milazzo, in the north of Sicily. If you want to take the time to visit several islands, you should spend at least 4-5 days there. You can also spend some time south of Siracusa for the beach and the nature reserves.

About Malta, you can fly to Malta from Catania or take the ferry from Pozzallo (in the very south of Sicily) or Augusta (between Catania and Siracusa). 2-3 days is in my opinion really yoo short for Malta (I live there, so I know the place very well ^^. You should spend at least a week to have time to visit the whole archipelago (Malta is 3 islands, and they are all worth it!) without hurrying. You will find all my articles to prepare your stay in Malta here: Destination Malta .

Do not hesitate if you have any other questions about Sicily or Malta! Enjoy your trip!

Vincent So kind of you.. really appreciate all your excellent suggestions.. have a lovely day…JoAnn

Hi JoAnn, Thanks to you for passing by and reading my 2 weeks itinerary in Sicily! If you have any questions to plan your trip, don’t hesitate to ask me. Have a great day!

Firstly, thanks for being so thorough with your itinerary and super helpful towards everyone who asked questions here. What a champion. Your two week itinerary looks pretty epic … I have some questions and would really appreciate some input here man.

I am flying to Catania, being picked up by friends, heading over to Syracuse for 4 days. From there I will take them back to Catania and will take the car to be on my own for 10 nights / 11 days. I’m not that into archeological sites and history but more into swimming/hiking spots and being active and outside as much as possible … so I’d prefer not to spend too much time on the road actually. If you would choose 2 or 3 spots for 10 nights that I can settle into each spot and explore from there which places would that be? Your advice would be sincerely appreciated.

Sending lots of good vibes from Amsterdam.

Thanks for your kind words, I am really glad my blog is helping you to plan your itinerary in Sicily!

if you enjoy hiking and outdoor, here are a few suggestions:

– Spend some time in Madonie Regional Natural Park, it’s the best place for hiking in Sicily (+ it’s not too far from Cefalu, worth a look too). Nebrodi regional park is also very nice and can be another good option. – If city is ok for you, you can spend a few days in Taormina – you can go to the beach, go hiking around/on Mount Etna, hiking/swimming in Alcantara Gorges (well, not really swimming, water is always super cold there! More refreshing yourself), hiking from Taormina to Castelmolla etc.. Enough to keep you busy for 3-4 days at least! – Will be the most touristic place for sure, so keep that in mind. – Go around Scopello: There you can enjoy Monte Cofano and the Zingaro nature reserve, both perfect to alternate swimming and hiking – In the south of Sicily, spend some time around Siacca: there you can enjoy nice beaches and nature reserve: Torre Salsa, Foce Del Fiume Platani, Cape San Marco Nature Reserve, Le solette beach (really nice!).

I hope it gives you a few ideas, you can pickup 2-3 according to your preferences!

Enjoy your trip, and if you need more info to plan your trip to Sicily, don’t hesitate.

Hi Vincent, You have a very nice itinerary! We plan a 2 weeks holidays in May with our 3 kids of 10 years old. For this time, we would like to be in the south and East (Mount Etna, Syracusa and Agrigento). The plan is to fly to Catania and chose 2 locations only, and from there mover around to visits those 3 areas. What would be your recommendation for choosing the 2 base locations? We are puzzling about what would make more sense, and also to enjoy the location as for the kids the main highlight might be a swimming pool 🙂

Thanks in advance for your advice!!

I am really glad my 2 weeks intinerary in Sicily is helping you to plan your stay!

To be honest, to visit Siracusa (and maybe noto/modica/ragusa), the Etna (and probably Taormina, maybe the Alcantara gorges etc.) and Agrigento, you should take 3 accommodations. Especially since you have 2 weeks!

Else you will end up having days with 4h or more of driving to visit the various locations.

I would thus suggest to take an hotel around Siracusa, another one around Taormina and the last one in Agrigento. It would really be the best solution to make the most of your stay.

Enjoy your trip!

Loved your info. My mothers family is from Syracuse. We were considering a tour but after reading your detailed guide we’re wondering about doing it on our own! Wondering if 2nd week in sept is less crowds but still good weather? Also wondering the average drive time between each of the destinations as outlined on your itinerary? Malta also sounds wonderful . If I was going to allow 15-18 days for both the trip to Sicily and Malta what would you eliminate from the Sicily itinerary to allow for additional days in Malta if you think there is much to be seen there. Also, while archaeological sites are interesting that would not be my preference for the majority of my travels in either area although I would like a taste of them, of course.

Hello Joanne,

No problem to visit Sicily the second week of September. You can check all the travel times by car on Google maps.

If you want to visit Sicily and Malta, I would recommend you to spend a week in each destination, otherwise it’s not worth it. For a week in Sicily, you should focus on the eastern part of the island and visit Catania, Syracuse/Ortigia, Noto and Taormina. You can read my detailed itinerary in Eastern Sicily here: A week in Sicily .

For everything about Malta, you can find all my articles about the island there: Destination Malta . You’ll find all the best things to do as well as itineraries.

Enjoy your trip to Sicily and Malta!

Hi, We are thinking of spending two weeks in Sicily, but the only time we can do it is the first two weeks of November. Is this too late in the season to follow your itinerary? Will places be closed ? The temperature looks to be arround 20C and comfortable for touring, but I’m reading about storms. All advice gratefully received Bill

Hello Bill,

You can definitely follow this 2 week itinerary in Sicily in early November.

There are just two things you won’t be able to do: – swimming as the water will be too cold – take the boat to the Egadi islands as the excursions stop in October.

For storms, Sicily was indeed hit by tornadoes and heavy rain in October/November last year (and it wasn’t only Sicily, I was in Malta at that time and the island was severely hit too) but it’s not usual. In November, normally you can expect some showers or a bit of wind but that’s about it.

Have a nice 2 weeks trip to Sicily!

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Sicily by Car – 10-Day Road Trip to Sicily

Home | Travel | Europe | Italy | Sicily | Sicily by Car – 10-Day Road Trip to Sicily

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Taking a 10-day road trip to Sicily  was an incredible experience, as it was the first trip we took together. We wanted to visit Italy, and since we went in the summer, we decided on Sicily to avoid the heat and the tourists that overcrowd cities like Rome. Looking back, we fully enjoyed our journey exploring  Sicily by car !

Although there are many   things to do in Sicily , 10 days is plenty of time to tour the entire island and see the most important landmarks, especially if you rent a car.

Despite Sicilians’ reputation as bad drivers, we didn’t have any problems during our  10 days in Sicily . Of course, if you’re going to rent a car here, I recommend purchasing full coverage car insurance since our rental company tried to charge us for a scratch on the car that we weren’t responsible for. I also suggest checking our guide on how to find cheap rental cars .

But first, let me tell you how to optimize your time so you can take full advantage of your 10-day road trip in Sicily.

Best Sicily 10-day itinerary

While you can plan a  driving route in Sicily in fewer (or more) days, 10 days is enough time to drive around Sicily and see the island’s main attractions. To help you out, this is the best 10-day Sicily itinerary :

• Day 1 : Palermo
• Day 2 : Monreale and Cefalù
• Day 3 : Stromboli
• Day 4 : Taormina
• Day 5 : Climb Mount Etna
• Day 6 : Syracuse
• Day 7 : Noto, Modica, and Ragusa
• Day 8 : Agriento and Scala dei Turchi
• Day 9 : Selinunte, Marsala, and Trapani
• Day 10 : Zingaro Nature Reserve

Day 1: Palermo – The beginning of your road trip to Sicily

♦   20 miles (40 min by car)

My ideal  10-day Sicily itinerary  begins in Palermo , the capital city. Parking in the center of Palermo is indeed pure chaos, but the airport is about 40 minutes away, so it’s easier to pick up your rental car as soon as you land. That way, you won’t have to waste time making the journey back to the airport the next day.

There are lots of cool  things to do in Palermo , but you can see all the main points of interest in one day. If you don’t want to walk all day long, you can take this hop-on/hop-off bus , which follows two tourist routes that stop at all the important sites. You can also take this free tour  to get to know some of the most iconic attractions in the city.

If you’re going to explore on your own, I suggest spending the morning visiting the Teatro Massimo , the largest opera house in Italy; as well as the  Vucciria  market, where you can find all kinds of products from southern Italy. I also recommend visiting the  Praetorian Fountain  in Piazza Pretoria, the famous  Quattro Canti  square, and the  Palermo Cathedral , a magnificent structure that outshines the Monreale Cathedral.

Around lunchtime, be sure to check out the food at Vucciria market or Pizza Ferrari. We ate at this pizzeria and it was one of the best pizzas we had in Sicily. That said, the  arancini  at La Vucciria is also spectacular.

During your  driving tour through Sicily , you must stop at the  Palace of the Normans , one of the most historical places in Palermo. I recommend taking this  guided tour  in the afternoon to learn more about the palace, as well as the  Palatine Chapel  and the  Capuchin Catacombs .

Finally, if you’re into the nightlife scene, the best party spot is the area around La Vucciria.

Day 1 of your Sicily road trip – Recommended accommodations

For your first night in Sicily, I recommend staying in the city center so you can be close to all the main points of interest. Just be sure to  plan where you’re going to park  since some hotels don’t offer parking.

These are my recommended hotels for the first night of your  Sicily trip :

• Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel – This hotel has private parking for $18/day
• Grand Hotel et Des Palmes
• Politeama Palace

Day 2: Monreale and Cefalù – Two cool places to visit in Sicily by rental car

♦   135 miles (3 hrs by car)

To make the most of day 2 of your  10-day Sicily itinerary , I recommend getting up early and heading to the  Monreale Cathedral . It’s about 30 minutes from the center of Palermo by car, and it’s one of the island’s most famous cathedrals, as well as a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site.

The next stop is Cefalù, which is about an hour’s drive away. This small coastal town is perfect for a  Sicily day trip  because you can see all the important places in one day. Some of the  top things to do in Cefalù  include climbing atop  La Rocca  for incredible views, visiting the Norman-style  Cefalù Cathedral and the Mandralisca Museum, and seeing the Fiume Cefalino  medieval wash-house.

Besides being so-called the Norman citadel, Cefalù is also famous for its lovely beaches, so I recommend taking this boat tour  to explore the coast. For something to eat, I suggest dining at Al Faro, which offers stunning ocean views. And, for dessert, check out the corner pastry shop at Piazza del Duomo, which has awesome cannoli.

To end this second day of your  Sicily road trip , drive to Milazzo, which is about an hour and a half away (95 miles). In the morning, you can take the ferry to the Aeolian Islands, a must-see during your  tour around Sicily .

Day 2 of your 10-day Sicily itinerary – Recommended accommodations

For the second night of your  10-day Sicily itinerary , I recommend sleeping in Milazzo. These are the best options near the ferry terminal:

• Eolian Milazzo Hotel
• Hotel La Bussola
• Hotel Milazzo

Day 3: Stromboli – The best place to see Sicily in 10 days

♦   2 hrs by ferry

From Milazzo, you can take a ferry to  Stromboli , one of the most beautiful places we visited during our  10 days in Sicily . I recommend taking the first ferry from  this company , which takes about 2 hours to reach the island.

Stromboli is one of the best Aeolian Islands, thanks to its active Stromboli volcano, a must-see during your  Sicily road trip .

Moreover, Stromboli has a lovely village full of narrow, white streets. You won’t see cars here, just bicycles, motorcycles, and classic Piaggo Apes, which are Italian three-wheeled vehicles. Walking through the town is a pleasant experience, and while you’re there, I recommend visiting the  Parish of San Vincenzo Ferreri  and the beautiful black sand beaches, such as the  Aeolus Grotto .

When it’s time to eat, head to La Terrazza di Eolo, which overlooks the Strombolicchio, a volcanic sea stack.

Thanks to its size, it’s easy to  visit Stromboli in one day . That said, I suggest staying overnight so you can take  this hiking excursion to the top of the Stromboli volcano to see the lava flows. Climbing the volcano without a certified guide is not only dangerous, but also illegal, so if you want to do this activity, be sure to book in advance.

Day 3 of your route through Sicily by car – Recommended accommodations

The best way to maximize your  Sicily day trip  is by staying overnight in Stromboli. The town is beautiful but quite small, so there aren’t many accommodations. I recommend booking one of these in advance so you can get a good night’s rest and continue  traveling around Sicily  in the morning:

• Hotel Ossidiana Stromboli
• Il Gabbiano Relais in Stromboli
• La Sirenetta Park Hotel

Day 4: Taormina – An essential stop on your road trip through Sicily

♦   2 hrs by ferry + 55 miles (1 hr 30 min by car)

After visiting beautiful Stromboli, the next thing to do on your  10-day Sicily itinerary  is to take the return ferry and head to  Taormina . This lovely city is about an hour and a half drive from Milazzo.

However, before arriving in Taormina, I recommend making a stop in  Savoca , especially if you’re a fan of  The Godfather . Here, you can walk through some famous areas that were featured in scenes from the movie, and it’s one of the best  things to see in Savoca .

As for Taormina, this city is known for its  Greek theater , which dates back to the 3rd century B.C. In the 19th century, it became a luxury tourist destination for European nobles, and today, it’s one of the most impressive sites in Italy.

Moreover, Taormina sits on a cliffside, over 650 feet above sea level, making it one of the most magnificent stops on your  Sicily road trip . Plus, there are many  things to do in Taormina . Besides visiting the Greek theater, you can walk along Corso Umberto Street and stop by the Duomo di Taormina cathedral and Piazza IX Aprile.

I also recommend riding the funicular down to  Isola Bella , a small island with a hidden residence that has housed several famous guests over the years.

For one of the best sunsets in Italy, go up to  Sanctuary Madonna della Rocca , where you’ll get stunning city views on one side while overlooking Mount Etna on the other.

Finally, if you’re looking for a good place to have lunch or dinner, I highly recommend  Pizzeria Villa Zuccaro , which was awarded the honor of second-best pizza in the world.

Day 4 of your Sicily trip – Recommended accommodations

Taormina is one of the best places to stay in Sicily, especially if you want a luxury hotel. So, for your fourth day traveling through  Sicily by car , I recommend these accommodations:

• Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel – Located in historical old town
• La Plage Resort – This hotel has a private beach
• Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel
• NH Collection Taormina

Day 5: Climb the Etna volcano – The best thing to do in Sicily in 10 days

♦   100 miles (2 hrs 15 min by car)

Mount Etna  is one of the most essential stops on any  Sicily road trip . Unfortunately, our tour got canceled because the volcano erupted right before we arrived in Sicily. However, if you have the chance to go, I recommend  this hiking tour .

During this excursion, you’ll take a guided hike to explore the stunning scenery of Mount Etna, 11,000 feet above sea level. You’ll ride a cable car and Jeep up the volcano, then do a 1.5-hour trek to the final summit.

This hike will take up your entire morning, but if you have the energy for it, you can take advantage of the natural beauty of  Gole dell Alcantara , a basalt canyon formed millions of years ago after a volcanic eruption.

While you’re in the area, you can also  visit Aci Trezza , a charming coastal village where you’ll find the popular Faraglioni, a group of small sea stacks formed by Etna’s volcanic activity.

We decided to spend the night here since we wanted some peace and quiet. However, if you prefer the nightlife, you can stay in  Catania , an important city in Eastern Sicily. It’s just 20 minutes away and even has an international airport.

If your  Sicily driving itinerary  includes an overnight stay in Aci Trezza, I recommend having dinner at  La Cambusa del Capitano .

Day 5 of your road trip through Sicily – Recommended accommodations

For day 5 of your  Sicily road trip , these are the top hotels in Aci Trezza and Catania:

• Ciclope Resort – Aci Trezza
• Il Principe Hotel Catania – Catania
• Duomo Luxury Suites – Catania

Day 6: Syracuse – An essential stop on your route through Sicily by car

♦   70 miles (1 hr 40 min by car)

If you spent the night in Aci Trezza, I suggest waking up early to enjoy the beautiful sunrise as it lights up the Faraglioni. Then, hop in the car, and drive about 1.5 hours to  Syracuse , another can’t-miss stop on your  10-day Sicily itinerary .

Syracuse is special because it’s one of the most historical Greek cities in Italy. While there are lots of attractions you can visit in  Syracuse in one day , I recommend booking  this tour , which will make the most of your time while teaching you more about the history of the town.

During the tour, you’ll visit the  Archaeological Park of Neapolis , where you’ll see a Greek amphitheater, the altar of Hiero II, the Ear of Dionysius cave, and the Greek theater. The tour also includes a stop on the island of  Ortygia  in the historical center of Syracuse. There, you’ll visit the Cathedral of Syracuse, the Fountain of Arethusa, the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and other tourist attractions.

If you have time in the afternoon, I suggest going to the protected marine area of Plemmirio, which is just 20 minutes outside the city and boasts hidden coves.

Finally, take a break at  La Cambusa  in Ortygia, where you can enjoy some delicious food.

Day 6 of your Sicily road trip – Recommended accommodations

On the sixth night of your  10-day Sicily road trip , I suggest staying overnight in Ortygia so you can see this beautiful city at night. Here are my top hotel recommendations:

• Hotel Livingston
• Hotel Gargallo
• Hotel Henry’s House

Day 7: Noto, Modica, and Ragusa – Must-sees on your 10-day Sicily itinerary

♦   55 miles (1 hr 45 min by car)

On day 7 of your  driving tour of Sicily , you’ll get to explore the southeastern part of the island. This area suffered a magnitude 7.4 earthquake in 1963, in which nearly all the buildings collapsed. Afterward, the city attempted to rebuild the area in a style that later became known as Sicilian Baroque.

The three most important cities here are Noto, Modica, and Ragusa.  Noto , which is referred to as the Garden of Stone and an excellent example of Sicilian Baroque, is a must-see on your  10-day Sicily itinerary  if you want to witness this distinct architectural style.

Modica  is known for manufacturing cocoa, and the chocolate they produce here is made through a cold brewing process, similar to what the Aztecs did. Here, you can find the  Antica Dolceria Bonajuto , the oldest chocolate factory in Sicily.

Finally,  Ragusa  is a lovely town perched on a hill, and from here, you can see the areas affected by the famous earthquake. I suggest looking through our guide on  what to see in southeast Sicily  to find more things to do around Noto, Modica, and Ragusa.

On the other hand, if you prefer nature over history and architecture, you can skip one of these cities and instead go to the  Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve . Here, you’ll find lovely natural pools where you can swim and relax.

Day 7 of your Sicily road trip – Recommended accommodations

After this seventh day of  driving around Sicily , I recommend stopping in Ragusa since it’s the closest to your next stop. These are my favorite hotels in the area:

• Itria Palace
• De Stefano Palace Luxury Hotel
• Iblaresort Boutique Hotel

Day 8: Agrigento and Scala dei Turchi – Essential stops on your Sicily road trip

♦   85 miles (2 hrs 20 min by car)

On your eighth day traveling around  Sicily by car , you’ll visit Agrigento, which has the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. Here, you’ll find the Valley of the Temples, a highlight on any Sicily itinerary.

The Valley of the Temples, a  UNESCO  World Heritage Site, is an archaeological expanse containing several important ruins, such as the temples of Hera, Hephaestus, and Heracles. All of these temples are well-preserved, except for that of Hephaestus.

Visiting all of the temples in one day just isn’t possible, but this  e-scooter tour  will help you see the most famous ones while learning some little-known details you might have otherwise missed.

During day 8 of your  10-day Sicily itinerary , you can also visit the  Scala dei Turchi  (Staircase of the Turks). This white stone cliff has taken on a peculiar shape thanks to years of wind and water erosion, and it’s quite a popular sight, so I highly recommend it!

Day 8 of your route through Sicily by rental car – Recommended accommodations

After an intense day exploring the Valley of the Temples and Scala dei Turchi, you’ll want to sleep in a comfortable bed. Here are the best hotels in Agrigento:

• Hotel Villa Athena
• Diodorus Luxury Experience
• Doric Boutique Hotel

Day 9: Selinunte, Marsala, and Trapani – The best things to see on your Sicily road trip

♦   105 miles (3 hrs by car)

On your 9th day  driving around Sicily , you’ll return to the western side of the island. It’s a lot of driving, so I recommend an early wake-up call so you can get on the road as early as possible.

As you make your way to Trapani, you might want to stop at  Selinunte , an archaeological site with ancient temples. While many of the structures are in ruins and it’s not clear who they’re devoted to, they’re still quite interesting.

Another pitstop I recommend is  Marsala , which is known for its amazing wine. There is no better way to enjoy this town than by taking a  winery tour with wine tasting .

Once in  Trapani , be sure to visit the beautiful historic center, which is free of cars. Here, you can walk around and discover the most intriguing attractions, such as Via Garibaldi, which is full of Baroque palaces. Also, be sure to walk along Via Vittorio Emanuele and check out the churches. After all, Trapani is known as “the city of 100 churches.”

Finally, end this portion of your  Sicily road trip with a visit to the Trapani Salt Pans, which take on an incredible glow at sunset.

Day 9 of your road trip through Sicily – Recommended accommodations

These are the best accommodations in Trapani so you can recharge for the final day of your  driving tour through Sicily :

• Badia Nuova Apart Hotel
• Hotel San Michele
• Crystal Hotel

Day 10: Zingaro Nature Reserve – The last stop on your 10-day Sicily itinerary

For the last day on your  10-day Sicily itinerary , I recommend passing through  Erice , a gorgeous medieval town overlooking the water from nearly 2,500 feet above sea level. From here, you can get amazing views of the Trapani Salt Flats and the Aegadian Islands.

After this quick stop, you can visit the  Zingaro Nature Reserve , which boasts some of Sicily’s most incredible natural landscapes. While there are several trails, I recommend the one that runs along the coast and passes by a few coves and wild beaches. It’s a great way to see the native flora and fauna, too.

After a pleasant day in nature, continue your  driving route through Sicily  by heading back to Palermo.

On the way to the capital city, you can visit the  Temple of Segesta , which is in the city of the same name. While its construction was never completed, the temple has become one of the most impressive in Sicily, so it’s a must-see.

Day 10 of your road trip through Sicily – Recommended accommodations

For your last night in Sicily, I suggest booking a room at one of the hotels I recommended in Palermo. If you have some time before your flight, you might want to spend some time exploring the capital city, visiting some places you couldn’t see your first time here.

If you’re short on time and have to catch an early flight, I recommend staying at a hotel near the airport:

• Residence Villa Rosa dei Venti
• Hotel Il Pirata
• CDSHotels Terrasini – Città del Mare

There you have it, a full itinerary to explore  Sicily by car in 10 days . All that’s left to do is start packing your bags!

Of course, you can modify this  Sicily driving tour  by skipping some attractions or adding a few more. If you don’t have that much time, I suggest skipping the Aeolian Islands and Stromboli. On the other hand, if you can afford an extra day or two, the Aegadian Islands are worth visiting, and  this excursion  from Trapani makes it very easy.

Finally, if you have any questions about the attractions and places in this guide, check out our article on the  best things to do in Sicily . You can also leave me a comment below and I’ll try to help you as much as I can.

I hope you enjoy your  road trip through Sicily  as much as we enjoyed ours! Happy travels!

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Ascen Aynat

20 replies on “ Sicily by Car – 10-Day Road Trip to Sicily ”

Hi, can you please help us with some advice. We are flying into Palermo Sicily 1st October 2023 we are going to rent a car from the airport. Driving east on the E90 motorway 3 hr 36 min to Savoca. How do I pay for the Tolls on the motorway, is there like a toll bouth, do I pay with cash or card, are their petrol stations on the motorways. Kind regards Brian McMahon

Hi Brian, You can pay the tolls with a credit card. There are gas stations along the highway, but be aware that some places may only accept cash.

I’m planning a 14 night trip to Sicily with a car rental. Thinking of landing in Catania and: 3-4 nights Ortigia with trips to Noto, Ragusa, Modica, Marzamemi), 4 nights Taormina, 2 nights Cefalù, 4 nights Castellamare del Golfo with trips to San Vito Lo Capo, Scopelly, Trapani, Erice, Favignana, Segesta. Fly out of Palermo.

Do you have any suggestions on the itinerary? Are 4 nights in Ortigia too much? Would you break up the 4 nights in Castellamare to 2 nights in Castellamare and 2 nights in Trapani?

Hi Christine, 3-4 nights in Ortigia is perfect. I think staying longer in Trapani is a good idea since there is a lot to see there. Also, it’s a lot of driving, so staying overnight for a couple of nights can break up your Sicily road trip a bit. Hope that helps!

What route could you recommend…renting a car. Landing in Catania…want to visit Catania, Taormina, etna, Siracusa (the island specifically ) cefalu, agrigento, trapani & Palermo…. I was thinking of a few days in Catania-without a car…day trip company to etna, Taormina, transit to Siracusa for 1-2 nights on the island, back in Siracusa grab a car to travel west, return upon arrival in Palermo, then visit there for last couple days before our overnight ferry to Naples. OR Fly into Palermo, no car for a few days and visit trapani with a group tour, rent car on way out of Palermo to agrigento, Siracusa etc, Catania, etna, Taormina, cefalu, return to Palermo.

Thoughts? We thought we could take trains/busses but I’m hearing horror stories of schedules not being followed, broken down trains slower than busses…but busses are a free for all a few Sicilian bloggers said… my mom is 79 and is not prepared to elbow her way onto a bus lol

Sicily 12-13 days. Then 4 days a Amalfi coast, 2 nights Ischia, 2 Capri. 1 night Rome before departure.

Hi Janine, I liked your second itinerary better. I do recommend renting a car. Public transport in Sicily is not very reliable and you will save time renting your own car.

Enjoyed your blog. My husband and I plan to go this fall. We don’t speak Italian. Did you have trouble communicating, especially in smaller towns, or do you speak the language? I’ve been to a small town in Sicily about 4 years ago when my brother lived there. No one spoke English. So when I wasn’t with him, the only way I could communicate with the hotel staff (my shower door is broken; my hairdryer isn’t working, etc. ) was using a translation app. Now we’re considering hiring a tour company where we’d have a driver/interpreter. But you did it on your own. What problems, if any, did you run into? Thanks!

Dan lived in Italy for one year and can speak Italian. I don’t speak Italian but I remember communicating in English with no issues.

This looks like a terrific 10 day trip. How do we modify it if we arrive from the car ferry at Messina please? We are planning to travel to Sicily and drive in September 2022.

You are going to have so much fun! If you are arriving in Messina, just start with day 4 in our 10-day Sicily Road Trip itinerary (Taormina) and get to day 1-3 at the end of your trip.

Let me know if you have any other questions, Ascen

Wonderful summary! Thank you for this. Can you please clarify more on the car parking, driving and usefulness? We essentially want to do the same trip in a couple of weeks but unsure how a car can be accommodated (do we have to pay parking fees everywhere? Are roads easy to navigate?)

Another question: your trip was in July, which I assume is pretty hot weather – did you not need to be near the water/pools to cool off? Thanks a lot!

Thanks Rasha,

Driving in Sicily can be chaotic in big cities like Palermo or Catania, but it’s generally fine across the island. In some small popular towns and villages there are parking fees, like in Taormina, but we parked for free in most of the locations.

As regards the Sicilian heat, there are incredible beaches and delicious Sicilian ice creams to cool off 😉

Have fun in your trip! Dan

Hi Ascen, We are completing a 8 night road trip around Sicily in May 2020. Your blog is excellent and my husband is addicted to a good pizza so not doubt we will try your recommendation in Taormina. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us. Leanne

Great! You will find plenty of nice places where you can eat great pizzas. I miss Italy so much! Ascen

This is a wonderfully comprehensive 10 day itinerary to visit the north! I’ve been checking out many blogs since I plan to go in May 2020. Yours is one of the best if not the BEST! Please continue!! Could you do a 10 day itinerary for the South? How about one for seniors and one for families? Thank you and safe travels for the future.

Hi Marietta,

Thanks for your nice words!

We’ll try to add more itinerary options for the South in the future. Enjoy your trip to Sicily this year!

Awesome blog. Keep up the good work guys !

Thanks Antony! Glad to see you found our blog useful!

Have a nice trip in Sicily 😉

Really awesome. Loved it. Keep sharing your experience! Fantastically photographed!

Thank you Sarah! Thanks for your kind words 😉

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Trip report, one week using public transport - Sicily Forum

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Travelling around using public transport was easy. Everyone was helpful, especially on the buses, pointing us in the right direction. The staff at the Trapani tourist information were incredibly helpful. The short trip has left us wanting more and hope that we can visit again.

Day 1 -We flew from Manchester to Trapani. The flight was uneventful and landed at 11.30 on Sunday. Passport control was straightforward and very efficient.

We had planned to go straight to Palermo by bus. When leaving the airport, turn left and walk to the end, past the car park, this is where all the buses go from (there is a walkway path marked on the floor). The bus to Trapani is at stand 1. I understand you can buy tickets at the airport to Trapani but not Palermo. The bus to Palermo was leaving from stand 4. We purchased the ticket online. It was a little confusing as although the information stated that you could not buy the ticket on the bus, the driver refused some passengers, yet he let others pay cash. We helped those who were refused tickets on the bus to purchase them online. The bus was not busy. In Palermo, we stayed close to the train station and spent the afternoon walking around following the crowd and taking in the atmosphere. A lovely introduction to Palermo just getting lost in the busy streets and stumbling across places that we had read about. We went to the rooftop bar at Rinascente (shopping centre). Amazing views over Piazza San Domenico, la Vucciria market and the main sights of Palermo historical centre. Lovely to watch the sunset and watch the buildings turn a golden orange. After the rooftop bar, we continued exploring as we made our way back to our accommodation.

Day 2 Had a leisurely start and breakfast was brioche con gelato! Walked to the catacombs, there was a bus that you could catch and then another 15-minute walk from the stop, but we like to walk and take in other sites. Walked back down via Emmanuel, and went to the cathedral, to enjoy the breath-taking views. We caught the end of the food market, yummy! In the evening, sat out and watched the world go by with wine, arancini and cannoli.

Day 3 Cefalu . We caught the 9.22 train ( booked this on the Trainline app and just showed the code). Be mindful, that tourist information has a notice up with both bus and train times. However the train times are slightly different, so do check carefully. Cefalu is a lovely old town to visit, decided against walking up to La Rocco, but did walk a short way for some lovely views.

Day 4 Goodbye Palermo. We caught the train to Agrigento .

Arrived before check-in and so dropped our bags at the accommodation. We opted to walk around the town first whilst it was open. Bought our tickets at a tobacconist in town for the bus to the Valley of the Temples. The bus goes from outside the train station. (Number 2, 2/, 1). Enjoyed a quiet (compared to Palermo) evening in Argentina. From our accommodation, we could see the temples lit up.

Day 5 Agrigento - Marsal . We took the early morning bus to Marsala (buy the ticket on the bus). The bus drops you off at the hospital which is quite a way out of the centre of town. A very kind young man and his mother offered to drive us into town and drop us off at the train station. We had a wander around the town. It was much bigger than I imagined, with lots of places to try the local wine. We caught the 1.15 bus to Moza from the bus station. A quick drink at Mama Cura and caught the return bus at 330. We were prepared for the rude service at Mama Cura but didn’t receive any ( perhaps we were lucky!) A very enjoyable afternoon. Once back in Trapani, we caught the bus replacement to Trapani. Again we booked the train on the Trainline app. Arrived in Trapani and just caught the end of the sunset- magnificent.

Day 6 We opted to spend the day in Trapani, having a leisurely start by enjoying the views from the accommodation. We had lunch at Osteria Ossuna with amazing sea views.

Day 7 Today we took the bus to Erice. The cable car was not running. The bus goes from the ferry port by the taxi rank. Buy the ticket on the bus. The stop was very busy. We caught the 1130, and it was busy. Unfortunately, not everyone was able to get on. The bus did not stop to pick up further passengers along the way either, so I would suggest catching the bus from the port. Perhaps when the cable car is running again, the bus will not be so busy. Similarly, on the return journey, some travellers were left behind. Arriving early does not make a difference as there is no cuing system and everyone just pushes past.

Day 8, Taxi back to the airport in Trapani. We walked to the port and caught a taxi to the airport. The bus times were not convenient for us. If you are catching the bus, it goes from the same bus stop as the Erice bus. You can buy the ticket from the kiosk across the road.

We used public transport throughout the trip (except for the taxi to the airport and the kind gentleman and his mum who gave us the lift).

For the bus to Palermo, we booked online. ( http://autoservizisalemi.it )

The trains were also all booked online. I use the Trainline app in the U.K. and this allowed me to book the trains. Very easy as my credit card is already set up.

Most journeys we booked either the night before or as we were making our way to the station. We wanted to leave our options open.

There was a bus replacement Marsala to Trapani, which left from outside the train station.

For local buses, we bought tickets from a tobacconist in Agrigento. But you can buy them on the bus.

The Agrigento bus to Marsala we paid on the bus. The card machine was not working so had to pay cash.

I am aware that some train tickets are asking to be checked in. I was not aware of this perhaps are tickets didn’t need checking in.

Accommodation -

Palermo accommodation was in a very good location for access to the transport, I have read that the area around the train station is perhaps not the best area to stay, but we did not feel unsafe any time. I would stay here again without hesitation. It’s noisy yes …but the beeping of scooter horns always reminds me of being on holiday. the apartment in Trapani was just right for us, it had a balcony with a view of the sea, a little cove less than 2 minutes walk away for the most beautiful sunsets. Quiet a crowd gathered here and one night, local musicians were playing. A lovely atmosphere. Our accommodation on Agrigento had a lovely roof terrace. Be warned Everywhere we stayed had lots of steps!

we loved the street food and selecting items from the bakery. My two favourite bakeries were Panificio Oddo in Trapani and Panificio Dalli Cardillo in Agrigento. I also enjoyed the little friggitoria that was around the corner from our accommodation in Palermo. fried calamari for breakfast! (Antica Friggitoria Dal 1947). i want to go back just for the food!

Thank you again to Vagabonda and all who offer excellent advice on the forum.

5 replies to this topic

Thank you very much for a very helpful report, much appreciated!

Really helpful report and great use of public transport, Thanks for sharing

Thanks for a great (public transport) trip report indianqueen39!

Perfect that your short trip has left you wanting more and more, and a return visit.

It’s a spot-on suggestion to take a bit of time to visit tourist information offices.

Yes, Marsala is a larger city than perhaps expected.

I too have always found Mamma Caura a nice stop at Imbarcadero Storico Mothia.

AST also stops at the train station for Erice, but if the funivia isn’t running, the bus does fill at the port. When the funivia is running, there’s local bus service from Trapani to the lower funivia station.

Regionale train tickets bought online don’t require validation prior to boarding.

“Your online ticket is already validated…”:

https://www.trenitalia.com/en/purchase/regional_online_ticketandpasses.html

Kalsa was recently discussed for its street food!

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187886-i343-k14740087-Babbaluci-Sicily.html#120571563

This informative and detailed report will be helpful to many, and thanks so much once again indianqueen39.

Thank you, everyone, I hope the report helps people to plan their trip.

Susan, we found the transport very easy to use, we did our research using the forum and many of the links that others (in particular Vagabonda) posted. if there is any specific you would like to ask, then please do, and if I can provide the information I will do it.

I really enjoyed Marsala and visiting the salt flats. We unfortunately only had a few hours there. I would visit again and take the ferry.

Perhaps I am old-fashioned, but I do like to visit tourist information when away!

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Sicily Hotels and Places to Stay

How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Sicily

Discover the romance of this dreamy Mediterranean island.

Ah, Sicily. This Mediterranean island, located just off the tip of southern Italy, has been the backdrop for countless stories; it's famously where The Godfather was set, and more recently was the playground for a host of characters in season two of The White Lotus . We have no questions about why: This island paradise is about as dreamy as it gets. With everything from ancient Roman ruins to sweeping vistas of the sea, an active volcano, and charming towns filled with list-topping restaurants and award-winning hotels, Sicily is the stuff of honeymoon dreams.

"On the high bell curve of Italian experiences , Sicily has it all," says Zoe Shapiro, founder and CEO of Stellavision Travel, Inc. , an Italy-centric travel company. "The cuisine is my favorite in the country, the beaches are stunning, the history is fascinating and well preserved, and the island's modern culture is thriving, too," she explains. "On your honeymoon , you could partake in as many of those as you'd like because Sicily is also the perfect host: Welcoming and hospitable when you want, personal and private when you crave an intimate moment."

As if you need any more convincing, we have a full guide to the most romantic hotels, the best things to do, and where to eat to ensure that your Sicilian honeymoon is a true dream come true.

Meet the Experts

• Zoe Shapiro is the founder and CEO of Stellavision Travel, Inc. , an Italy-centric travel company.
• Aida Mollenkamp is the founder, editor-in-chief, and travel planner of Salt & Wind Travel , a boutique travel company that she runs with partner and creative director Kristen Kellogg .

Related: How to Plan a Romantic Honeymoon in Italy

Planning Your Sicily Honeymoon

Because Sicily is located so close to the rest of Italy, it's easy to hop right over, so many travel experts will suggest a honeymoon that combines other parts of Italy with the island. But rest assured that there is plenty to do in Sicily alone if you choose to plan a honeymoon entirely around the destination.

"Sicily has everything that people appreciate about Italy—incredible food, welcoming locals, rich history, and stunning sights—but it’s a place all its own," explains Aida Mollenkamp of Salt & Wind Travel . "The island has inspired numerous legends and many a love story over the ages so it has romance in its DNA."

Here are our Sicily must-know tips for planning the ultimate honeymoon :

Brides Tips

Language: Italian

Currency: Euro

• When to Go: High season in Sicily is June through September—this is when the weather is warmest, but also the most highly-touristed period and when airfare and hotel prices will be highest. For those in search of lower rates and milder temperatures, shoulder seasons like early spring or late fall are ideal.
• How Much Time to Spend: While Sicily is small compared to some of its other European counterparts, given that it takes a multi-leg flight to arrive from the U.S., it's best to allow 10 days to two weeks for a relaxing honeymoon in the destination.
• Getting There: Flying to Sicily's main international airports, Palermo or Catania, is the best way to travel from the U.S., however, keep in mind that there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Sicily, so travelers will need to transfer through a main hub in Europe or elsewhere in Italy.
• Transportation: Trains, buses, and taxis are all widely available and often affordable within Sicily. Within individual towns, walking is very common, as are bikes and mopeds/scooters.
• Must-Pack: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, bathing suits, sandals, good walking shoes, light layers, and dressy outfits for nights out on the town (but keep in mind that Sicily is typically laid-back).

Where to Stay During Your Sicily Honeymoon

If you envision waking up as newlyweds in sumptuous accommodations overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean, your options here are bountiful. From small, boutique hotels to luxury resorts, honeymooners are spoiled for choice when it comes to romantic accommodations.

"There are really unique hotel properties in Sicily and something from nearly every traveler from modern design to historic villas and whitewashed seaside resorts," notes Mollenkamp.

Seven Rooms Villadorata

"At Seven Rooms Villadorata , every room is a suite hovering over a magical courtyard," explains Shapiro. "The hospitality is second to none, and they have fused the deluxe hotel experience with the intimacy of an extremely posh bed and breakfast." 

Rocco Forte Villa Igiea

Located on the perimeter of bustling Palermo, this storied 19th-century palazzo offers a serene escape from the buzz of the city, replete with rooms and suites furnished beautifully with antiques and luxurious fabrics. Its proximity to both the city, Mount Pellegrino, and the Tyrrhenian Sea make it the ideal home-away-from-home, putting travelers at the heart of myriad activities.

Belmond Villa Sant Andrea

This famously glamorous resort perched over the Mediterranean is unparalleled when it comes to an opulent and romantic stay in Taormina. The property was built in 1919, and timeless elegance can be seen throughout the manicured gardens, the hotel's fine art collection, and the heavenly rooms (think marble bathrooms, king-sized beds, and ocean-view balconies).

San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel

If you fancy a White Lotus -style hotel experience, look no further than San Domenico Palace (where the second season of the series was filmed). Built within a reimagined 14th-century covent, everything at San Domenico feels luxurious, from the iconic waterfront infinity pool to the spacious guest rooms appointed with sophisticated, chic décor. Guests can enjoy strolls through the Italian Gardens, dinners at a Michelin-star restaurant, and proximity to all that Taormina has to offer.

Dimora delle Balze

The architecturally-stunning 19th-century Diomora delle Balze was conceived as an Ode to Sicilian culture, and oh, does it deliver. The countryside estate has a relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful gardens and orchards surrounding the walls of the property. With just 11 rooms, Dimora delle Balze feels like a luxurious farm stay complete with rustic-chic accommodations (which give a nod to Sicilian traditions), ample opportunities to get outdoors, and proximity to both Noto and Siracusa.

Things to Do During Your Sicily Honeymoon

Because Sicily has so many pockets of culture, honeymooners will have no trouble filling up time with everything from catching sunsets over the sea to hiking and exploring hole-in-the-wall gems throughout Sicily's sweet towns. Mollenkamp notes that it's a particularly good fit for couples who are interested in food and wine and want a mix of cultural exploration and relaxation. "Most of our honeymoon clients travel there for two to three weeks and enjoy a mix of the bustling cities like Palermo and Catania, historic towns like Taormina and Noto, wine country time in Mount Etna or Victoria, and seaside relaxation in Cefalu or the Aeolian islands," says Mollenkamp.

Ready to start planning your days? These are a few of our experts' can't-miss activities for the perfect itinerary.

Catch Live Music at the Greek Theater Taormina

Taormina's ancient Greek Theater frequently offers live music shows and this is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening in this beautiful hillside city.

Take a Private Sunset Cruise

You will be, after all, surrounded by water—so why not opt for a romantic sunset cruise on the sea?

Enjoy a Seaside Couples Massage

Inquire at your hotel about booking a couples massage with waterfront views and fresh ocean air.

Hike Mount Etna at Sunrise

A trip to Sicily wouldn't be complete without a visit to Mount Etna, the island's active volcano. Elevate your experience by hiking the mountain at sunrise (and don't forget to bring cannoli to enjoy at the top).

Take a Cooking Class

Cuisine is the heart and soul at Sicily. There are ample opportunities all over Sicily for private or group cooking classes to learn about the local cuisine first-hand.

Explore Historic Towns

For couples who want to learn about Sicily's rich history, Mollenkamp recommends wandering through the Baroque towns of Ragusa and Noto, or the seaside villages of Trapani and Cefalu.

Visit the Palermo Botanical Gardens

If you find yourself with a few hours to spare in Palermo, waste no time visiting the striking Orto Botanico di Palermo , which boasts some 5,000 cultivated species.

See the Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily (on the southwestern coast), is one of the world's most splendid examples of ancient Greek art and architecture, and a can't-miss for history buffs.

Where to Eat During Your Sicily Honeymoon

True to Italian form, the food in Sicily is simply divine. Whether you choose to pop into family-run eateries for fresh pasta or book fine dining experiences (of which there are plenty), honeymooners will find fresh, seasonal ingredients and local delicacies around every corner. A few can't-miss items include granita, pasta alla Norma, and—of course—cannoli.

La Galleria

Couples staying in (or just visiting!) the bustling hub of Palermo should opt for dinner at La Galleria , a Sicilian restaurant situated just behind the iconic Norma Cathedral. Outdoor tables along a quiet street offer respite from the busy city, and it's the perfect place to enjoy expertly-crafted Sicilian fare.

If you find yourself in Catania, Il Sale is the place to go for a fine dining experience complete with homemade-style cuisine and a warm atmosphere.

Villa Zuccaro

We couldn't provide a guide to Sicily without including an excellent pizza joint. Known as one of the best pizzerias in Taormina (and even in all of Sicily) Villa Zuccaro offers traditional and inventive pizzas from an award-winning chef.

Lido Torre di Guidaloca

For those in search of fresh seafood served right by the water, this Guidaloca Beach local favorite is laid back and serves up some of the best fresh fish when you need a break from the sun.

Osteria da Carlo

Located in Siracusa, Osteria da Carlo is a must-try for those in search of a high-end restaurant with a Sicilian-style seafood menu.

Caffe Sicilia

It may be worth a day trip to Noto just to try Caffe Sicilia's delectable cannoli, which are prepared traditionally (with Marsala and pork fat), and stuffed to order.

Budgeting for a Sicily Honeymoon

As with any popular European destination, Sicily can be very pricey during the peak season, from June until November. Airfare from the U.S., as well as local hotel rates, will soar during this period (and can surpass $1,000 for a roundtrip flight), so for those looking to travel on a budget, opting for the shoulder season (or even the off season, which would be non-holiday winter dates) is the best way to save some money. Honeymooners could easily spend $100-200 a day on food and transportation, without airfare and accommodations factored in.

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