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The Smooth Escape

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One week in Sicily: The perfect Sicily itinerary

Oh sweet Sicily …thinking back on our time on this idyllic island brings a smile to my face. Picture-perfect towns, amazing landscapes and food to die for!

Being the largest and one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean Sea , there is so much to explore in Sicily, and deciding on which places to visit can be a challenge.

As we only had one week to explore this island, we wanted to be sure that we make the most of it, so we put together a 7-day Sicily itinerary which turned out to be perfect! We got to see impressive historic sites, relax on beautiful beaches, do a bit of hiking and admire the gorgeous medieval towns of the island.

Keep in mind though that this one week Sicily itinerary is best suited for someone that’s used to fast-paced travel and is comfortable with moving to a new destination every 1-2 days. If you prefer a slower pace or have more than 7 days in Sicily, simply add a few days in the locations that seem the most attractive to you (more on that below).

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

How to get around Sicily?

Travelling in Sicily by public transportation is possible but can be really slow, depending on where you want to go. If you’re interested in visiting only the major cities, taking the train is the quickest and the most convenient option. However, if you’re like us and are keen on visiting more remote destinations and small villages, opt for renting a car instead as these places don’t have good bus or train connections.

As an alternative to renting a regular car, it’s worth considering renting a campervan or a motorhome for your Sicily road trip instead. The island is a wonderful destination to explore by campervan and the freedom and flexibility that comes with this type of travel is fantastic. Check out  Motorhome Republic  to find the best motorhome and campervan rental deals in Sicily.

Before our trip, we were warned that driving in Sicily is a horrible experience. However, we didn’t encounter any particularly reckless drivers or crazy traffic jams and had in general a very pleasant driving experience.

Here’s an overview of our action-packed 7-day Sicily itinerary!

Day 1: Palermo

Day 2: san vito lo capo, day 3: agrigento area, day 4: ragusa ibla, marzamemi & ortigia, day 5: ortigia & taormina, day 6: mount etna, day 7: alcantara gorge & cefalu.

Check out our travel video which gives you a glimpse of the places we visited during our 7 days in Sicily:

7 day Sicily itinerary map

Click on the top left corner of the map to see the stops on this 7 day Sicily road trip itinerary.

The perfect Sicily itinerary for 7 days

What better way to start your 7 days in Sicily than by exploring its vibrant capital! Palermo is a city that’s characterized by a fascinating mix of cultures which is clearly reflected in its architecture and cuisine.

I highly recommend visiting the Palermo Cathedral and Massimo Theater – two of the city’s main landmarks and impressive architectural masterpieces.

After that, wander through the loud, colorful and centuries-old Ballaro street market to get a glimpse of the authentic Sicilian lifestyle and buy some fresh local produce.

If you’re curious about the Sicilian cuisine, eat your way through the city’s exciting street food scene. My personal favorites were arancini (find the best ones at Ke Palle ), cannoli and granita , which you can find in small stalls all over Palermo. A fun way to get to know the local gastronomy is to take a street food tour where you’ll get to taste a variety of local specialties.

When the night falls, head to one of the charming outdoor restaurants (I recommend Antica Focacceria San Francesco) and enjoy fresh seafood while listening to live music performances.

Be sure to read my full post on how to spend one day in Palermo for more tips on cool places to visit in this city!

The main sights in Palermo can easily be reached on foot if you’re willing to walk a few kilometers, so there’s no need to rent a car for the first day. If you don’t feel like walking, you can take this hop-on hop-off bus tour that stops at all the main sights.

In case you prefer to explore the city on a guided tour, check out these options below:

Accommodation

Better & Better : We loved staying in this modern, tastefully decorated and squeaky clean B&B. Italian breakfast is included in the room price and the location of the apartment is superb – just a short walk to the historic center but still away from the city noise. Plus, the host Marco is super helpful and eager to give you all the insider tips on Palermo.

I suggest you hit the road early since you need to do a fair share of driving this day. We decided to rent a car from Palermo Airport as it was located on the way to our destination, San Vito Lo Capo, anyway. Also, it’s a convenient place to return your car right before flying back home.

The easiest way to get to the airport is to take a train from central Palermo. The ride takes about 50 minutes. Check the train schedules and book tickets here . 

From Palermo Airport, you’ll have a 1.5-hour drive to San Vito Lo Capo in western Sicily. It’s a scenic journey along beautiful coastal roads, past soaring mountains and through charming little villages. Once you reach this tiny seaside town and make your way to the beach, you’ll be left speechless because this place looks like paradise!

A long strip of soft powdery sand, crystal clear water, and a towering mountain overlooking the bay – no surprise that San Vito Lo Capo is considered one of the best beaches in Sicily .

If you can spend more than 7 days in Sicily, I’d say this is the spot where you should allocate an extra day to enjoy these turquoise waters and perhaps even take this full-day boat tour to explore the amazing coastline.

Once you’re done relaxing on the beach and walking the streets of San Vito Lo Capo, drive to Agrigento where you’ll be spending the next two nights. This is a fairly long drive (about 3 hours), so if you prefer to cut it shorter by an hour like we did, you can instead spend the night in a small coastal town called Sciacca, and do a bit of extra driving the next morning.

Garibaldi Relais : This hotel is located in the heart of Sciacca in a charming early-20th century building. The decor of our room was perhaps a bit outdated for our taste, but the service and central location definitely made up for this.

Start your third day with a visit to Scala dei Turchi (“Stairs of the Turks”), a massive white cliff stretching out to the sea with ‘steps’ carved by wind and waves over time. Apparently, in the past Turkish pirates used to climb up this cliff to raid the neighboring villages.

You can easily spend an hour or two here – join the many locals sunbathing on the beach next to the cliff, take a dip in the sea, or grab a bite in the restaurants near the entrance to the beach.

Update: Due to concerns of erosion and irresponsible tourists removing pieces of the white rock, since 2022 it is prohibited to walk on the cliff but you can still admire it from a distance.

Next, head to the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) to admire one of the largest archaeological sites in the world. The place we today know as Agrigento used to be an ancient Greek town called Akragas whose ruins can now be seen in the Valley of the Temples.

The area includes the remains of seven temples, some of them incredibly well-preserved. You can also visit the lush gardens of Kolymbethra to walk among ancient olive and citrus trees.

For adults, the ticket price to this UNESCO World Heritage Site ranges from 10-12 EUR depending on the time of the visit while people under 18 get in for free! Remember to bring water and sunscreen with you as you’ll be walking around the park for a few hours with no shade from the sun.

In case you have mobility issues or simply prefer to walk less, shuttles are available that will take you through the park for an additional fee.

To get a deeper understanding of the history of the Valley of the Temples, consider taking this 2-hour guided walking tour through the archaeological site or this fun e-scooter tour .

If you still have any energy left after exploring the Valley, I recommend you check out a place called Farm Cultural Park in the neighboring town Favara.

It was opened in 2010 when a semi-abandoned neighborhood in the center of the town was turned into a modern art and cultural space. The area consists of seven courtyards in which you’ll find cool murals, sculptures, exhibitions and restaurants.

B&B La Dolce Vita – Luxury House : When I saw this B&B on Booking.com, I instantly knew that I had to stay there because it looked unlike any hotel room I had ever seen! With its quirky but fabulous Baroque-style interior, this hotel will make you feel like royalty. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, this is it! Plus, they offer an awesome breakfast that you can enjoy on your private balcony.

Once again, hit the road early, since you need to drive quite a bit to visit the three destinations planned for this day. 

The first stop is a small town called Ragusa Ibla which is a 130-km (80-mile) drive from Agrigento. With its Baroque churches, cobblestone alleys, cozy courtyards, and scenic views, Ragusa Ibla is a truly charming place and definitely worth a visit even if it’s just for a few hours.

My favorite spot in the town was Giardino Ibleo – a peaceful little park with fountains, sculptures and palm trees, a perfect place to hide from the blazing sun.

An hour’s drive south-east from Ragusa Ibla, you’ll find your second destination of the day – Sicily’s prettiest seaside village Marzamemi . Grab some lunch or a refreshing drink in one of the gorgeous beachside restaurants, take a dip in the sea or simply stroll around and admire the beautifully decorated houses.

With its many blue doors and windows, Marzamemi reminded me a bit of Greece ! I would have loved to spend a night in this picturesque village if we only had more time.

After exploring Marzamemi, drive north to Ortigia where I recommend that you spend the night.

Ortigia is a small picturesque island connected to Sicily by a bridge and the historical center of the town of Syracuse. Its churches, squares and fountains are simply stunning and become especially impressive at night when they’re illuminated.

As the island is very small, you can go anywhere on foot. Have dinner at Piazza del Duomo, admire the Fountain of Diana and finish your night with a romantic stroll along the waterfront promenade.

Note: You will most likely need to leave your car at a big parking house in the northern part of the island (‘Parking TALETE’ in Google Maps) as it’s very difficult to find any parking on the narrow streets of Ortigia.

BB Opera Dei Pupi : The rooms in this B&B are simple but newly renovated and clean, and the location is great – just around the corner from all the cute shops and restaurants in Ortigia. It wasn’t the most exciting accommodation of our Sicily road trip but it was good value for money, especially since it included breakfast.

Before leaving Ortigia, you might want to make your way to the island’s street market which takes place every morning (except Sundays) at Via Emmanuele de Benedictis. There you’ll have a chance to buy a wide variety of fresh produce, cheese, nuts, seafood etc. and hear the shouting of vendors which is typical to Sicilian street markets.

After exploring the market, continue your Sicily itinerary by driving north to Taormina, where I recommend that you spend the next two nights. Taormina was my favourite town in all of Sicily.

“Should you only have one day to spend in Sicily and you ask me ‘what is there to see?’ I would reply ‘Taormina’ without any hesitation. It is only a landscape but one in which you can find everything that seems to have been created to seduce the eyes, the mind and the imagination.” Guy de Maupassant

I couldn’t agree more with the above quote! Perched on top of a hill on the coast in eastern Sicily, Taormina offers stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea and the neighboring coastal areas.

In the center of the town, you’ll find the most charming little streets, beautifully decorated stone houses, and cozy courtyards with amazing restaurants and cocktail bars. All of this just creates an incredibly romantic atmosphere.

Make sure to also visit Villa Comunale Di Taormina – a public garden with lush vegetation, fountains and the best views in town. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Etna from here.

If you’re into history, another place you should visit is the Greek Theater of Taormina. This 10,000-seat amphitheater was built in the third century BC by ancient Greeks and is nowadays a tourist attraction and a concert venue. You can book your tickets online to skip the line.

Medea Residence : The apartments at Medea Residence are spacious, with a unique Greek mythology-themed design and come with a kitchenette so you can cook your own meals. Our favorite things about this property though were its heated outdoor pool and a lush garden with amazing views of the rugged coast. I can highly recommend this place!

Finally, it’s time to head to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe! I recommend that you get a guide since they can provide so much valuable information on the volcanological processes, the history of the volcano and the different phenomena you’ll see while hiking around the craters.

We took this Summit Craters Trekking tour and had such a great time! Our guide Massimo was truly passionate and knowledgeable of Etna. Without his vivid descriptions, personal stories and humor, it wouldn’t have been nearly as fun and educating experience as it was. He also provided us with trekking poles, helmets and proper hiking shoes which proved to be very useful when walking on loose volcanic gravel.

Aside from wandering around lava fields, gazing at the massive craters, and admiring the odd steaming ground around us, we were truly impressed when Etna started spewing out huge ash columns indicating increased volcanic activity. It was definitely one of the highlights of this 7-day Sicily itinerary. Just two days after our visit, the volcano erupted!

Our tour lasted in total for about 6 hours including cable car rides and several breaks for resting and having lunch. Keep in mind that it gets quite cold up there at 3,350m (11,000 ft) above sea level so dress accordingly. We were there in mid-July and the temperature dropped all the way down to 12°C (54°F). 

Here are some other tours for exploring the magnificent Etna and its surrounding areas:

Spend another night in Taormina. We stayed again at Medea Residence .

Kick off your day with a trip to Alcantara Gorge. In this natural reserve, you’ll find a river that has carved its way through volcanic stone and created a narrow canyon. What makes this place special are the impressive rock columns that were formed by the crystallization of the lava that flowed here from Mount Etna thousands of years ago.

We planned to try something called body rafting where you float down the river wearing a life jacket as this seemed like a really fun way to see the gorge. Unfortunately, on the day of our visit, the area was hit by torrential rains which caused the water levels to rise too high so our tour was cancelled.

Apart from swimming in the river, you can also go for a short hike along the top of the gorge and enjoy some pretty cool views down to the bottom. The entrance fee to the park is 13 EUR. We found out later though that you can also access the park through a smaller municipal entrance a few hundred meters from the main gates and only pay 1.5 EUR.

Next, drive 2.5 hours to reach the very last stop of our 7-day Sicily itinerary – the medieval seaside resort of Cefalu.

Cefalu is yet another small Sicilian town packed with history, amazing restaurants and charming little streets. On top of that, it has a lovely sandy beach which is a great spot for relaxing after a long drive and also happens to be the perfect place for watching the sunset. If you’re in the mood for something more active, hike to the top of the La Rocca mountain to enjoy the best views of the town.

Walking on the cobblestone streets, drinking Sicilian wine and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of this town was the ideal way to end our one-week Sicily itinerary.

Cefalu in Blu : This apartment is conveniently located in the heart of the charming old town of Cefalu and only a short walk from Cefalu beach. The place is quaint and comfortable, and has a balcony with sea view. A wonderful Italian breakfast is included as well!

Day 8: Fly home!

Time to say arrivederci ! Return your car to the airport and remember to fuel it up on the way as there is no gas station at the airport.

7-day Sicily itinerary: Final thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading this 7-day Sicily itinerary and that you’ll find it helpful when planning your own Sicily road trip. As always, in case you have questions about any of the locations mentioned in the article, I’d be happy to answer them in the comments section below!

P.S. If you have more than 7 days in Sicily, why not take a trip to Malta as well? There are frequent ferry crossings from Sicily to this tiny island nation and the journey only takes between 1.5 and 3 hours. Take a look at my Malta itinerary to see what this beautiful country has to offer.

Are you also thinking about visiting other Mediterranean destinations? Then take a look at my following travel guides to get inspired:

• Mallorca itinerary
• Milos Island, Greece
• Antiparos Island, Greece
• Most beautiful places in Slovenia
• 7-day itinerary for Algarve, Portugal

Pin this 7-day Sicily itinerary!

The perfect Mallorca itinerary: An unforgettable week in Mallorca

How to spend one day in Palermo – best things to do

Amazing things to do in Milos, Greece: Beaches, villages and epic views

A week in Malta: The perfect 7-day Malta itinerary

5-day South of France itinerary: Provence road trip for nature lovers

19 comments.

Wonderful. I’ve been to Sicily but you dont talk about polizzi generous. The village of my grandparents. 😊

I’ve never heard of Polizzi Generous! Maybe I need to see it the next time I visit Sicily? 🙂

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

I am planning for 10 days in catania. Can you suggest me any weekly pass or something like that to get arround sicily. I will be having day trips from catania throughout the jorney.

Hi Mairaj! Sorry I don’t know anything about weekly passes unfortunately because we rented a car for our entire Sicily trip. I hope you’ll have an amazing time exploring this beautiful island! 🙂

Wonderful itinerary! I’m going for five weeks in December/January with my two small dogs and was planning on staying a week in four /five different locations; would you recommend which to spend time in? I’m not as ambitious as you to do such adventures each day (more like I’m lazy😜) but would like to get the feel for the less touristy locations so that I can spend more time there in the future. I appreciate any recommendations. Your photos are also beautiful! I love your blog

Thanks a lot Lise! So glad to hear you like my blog! 🙂 If I had a week to spend in each location, I’d probably choose Palermo, Agrigento, Ortigia and Taormina. If you’re looking for less touristy places, then from this itinerary these are probably Ragusa Ibla, Marzamemi and Cefalu. I’ve also heard great things about Noto, Erice and Modica, which all seem to be less touristy. I hope you and your dogs will have a great trip 🙂

Hi Marjut Found your post Re a week in Sicily & it’s just what we need! Love that you’ve posted this for other travellers! Hoping to go in May ( we’re considerably older so maybe not so much hiking but otherwise it looks perfect) We need to fly to Catania airport not Palermo , from Manchester so our trip will prob in reverse to yours? We hope to do 10 days. Do you have any suggestions for a route incorporating your stops ( not going up Etna tho) We don’t mind staying at, say 3 different places What are your thoughts?

Hi Jan! Glad to hear you’ve found this post useful! Since you’ll be flying to Catania, I agree that it would probably be nicer to do the itinerary in reverse. The itinerary in this post is pretty fast paced, so you could just spread it out over 10 days and have a more relaxed pace. If you only want to stay at 3 places, I’d recommend San Vito Lo Capo (because of the beach), Taormina and either Ortigia or Agrigento. P.S. If you don’t feel like hiking Etna, you could take an Etna wineries tour instead 🙂

This is great. We are going for 2 weeks. We will be in Ortiga for 4 nights (day trips to Noto, modica, & ragussa). If you had to pick one place to just relax and swim (not super crowded) for a week (5 days?) – what would it be?

That’s exciting! San Vito Lo Capo was by far the most beautiful beach I saw in Sicily, so I would either go there or to Cefalu. The beach in Cefalu is not quite as stunning as San Vito Lo Capo but the town is more lively.

Hi, I am interested in visiting Etna as well, could you please help me a bit? We would travel by public transportation, do you have any info whether it is possible or not? Thanks!

I just did a quick Google search and it seems that you can take a bus from Catania to Etna. The bus company is called AST.

Hello! Looking to follow this itinerary with my husband and 7 and 9 year old children. Would it be possible to reduce the number of accommodations? What would be the best way to do it? Thanks!

Hi Sil! Yes, I think that’s possible, you would just have to do a bit more driving. Perhaps you could spend a few more nights in Palermo and Taormina and take day trips from there to visit all the places in this itinerary 🙂

I loved reading your post on malta and Sicily. I have few questions Are the places good for travelling in late may? Can we club the two in a week? If so what will be your must see Lastly for motorhomes sorry tl ask are they easy to park? We are sleepinh and travelling in them right? Thanks

Hi Indrani. I’m glad to hear you loved my posts! I think late May would be a great time to travel there. The weather will probably be nice and warm but not too hot. I don’t think one week is enough to visit both Malta and Sicily. Sicily is a big island with lots to do and see, I’d say one week is the minimum amount of time to spend there. Regarding motorhomes, you can find parking spots on the Park4Night app/website (not sure if that’s what you were asking?).

If you had time to visit an island off Sicily, Pantelleria, Lampedusa, or the Aeolian Islands, which would it be and for how many days?

Hi Jeffrey. I haven’t been to these islands so I can’t give any advice on this, sorry!

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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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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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• Travel Resources

30 Super Useful Sicily Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Sicily for the first time? You will love it! To make your trip absolutely amazing, here are my 30+ super handy Sicily travel tips you need to know before embarking on the Sicilian adventure. 

I travelled around Sicily twice so far (and I am pretty sure I will be coming back). During my two road trips (one and two weeks respectively), I got familiar with local culture, the best ways to get around, what to see, and also how to plan a great Sicily road trip .

Whether you are going for a day, a week, or a month, let me guide you through some practical travelling in Sicily tips, as well as share some inspiration on why you should visit Sicily.

In this Sicily guide, you will find the most important topics and questions answered about Sicily travel: when is the best time to go to Sicily , how to get to Sicily and the best way to travel around Sicily (public transport or driving), how many days in Sicily and which part of Sicily (east or west) to choose for nature, history and architecture, as well as insights into culture, food, and Sicilian lifestyle . 

• Related reads: 21 practical tips for driving in Sicily stress-free .

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.

30+ essential tips for travelling in Sicily: plan your perfect visit

Sicily travel essentials.

• My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Sicily is 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 .
• Peace of mind: always remember to get travel insurance to be on the safe side. Get a quote at World Nomads or SafetyWing .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at TIM or Vodafone. Advisable to purchase from a local store in town as airport costs are much higher.
• Learn Italian: take a fun interactive online course Rocket Italian which will help you learn spoken and written Italian language quickly. Study at your own pace either on a desktop or using a mobile app, lifetime access, and a free trial available upon signing up.

GETTING TO KNOW SICILY

1. there is italy and then there is charismatic sicily.

Kicked by the toe of mainland Italy, the volcanic island of Sicily developed its own identity with a distinct character. Sicily has delightful mischief that you won’t find anywhere else in Italy. 

Sicily, although part of Italy, could easily be a country on its own (historically it used to be the Kingdom of Sicily before it became an autonomous region of Italy). Locals proudly call themselves Sicilians and even get offended if you refer to them as Italians.

Indeed, everywhere you go you will see Sicilian flags stretched between the balconies. Meanwhile, colorful Sicilian ceramics are a statement of Sicilian house decor. However, the most obvious way to understand Sicilian identity and witness the pride of being Sicilian is while interacting with locals.

We stayed in different parts of Sicily during our road trip. Every host we met was raving not only about how wonderful Sicily is but also pointing out that the area they are from is the best on the island.

And trust me, the way Sicilians describe their hometown will make you excited to explore it. We got particularly lucky in Palermo with our host Mario whose passion for the town and food made us fall in love with the underrated capital of Sicily.

In short, when the place has a distinct character and identity of its own ready to be explored, it makes traveling way more fulfilling than just scratching the surface of main tourist sights. And Sicily definitely has the charisma!

2. Sicily has some of the most diverse histories in Europe

Sicily has been invaded dozens of times by Arabs, Spaniards, Normans, Greeks, and Romans, to name a few major ones. Therefore, if you have an interest in history, discovering Sicily’s layered and diverse past through many remaining historical sites will definitely keep you busy.

Today’s Sicily is like a living museum, a historical artwork celebrating and commemorating some of the most powerful cultures and civilizations. 

With a history that stretches over thousands of years, you will find out about the ancient Greek settlements in Agrigento and Syracuse, learn about Baroque architecture in Val di Noto, Roman cultural influence in Villa Romana del Casale mosaics, Arab and Norman impact in Palermo, as well as discover frozen in time medieval villages of Madonie mountains. 

To sum up, Sicily is a perfect place to travel back in time and get acquainted with its turbulent history. 

3. Is Sicily worth visiting? 

Sicily is a must-visit place in Italy. You can expect to have a very different travel experience even if you have already been to other parts of the country.

You may already know that Italy is very diverse, with different regions having distinct landscapes, architecture, and even cultural nuances. But even if you have been all around Italy, and think that there is just so much more you can expect from yet another region, you will be pleasantly surprised how different from other parts of the country Sicily is.

Sicily can satisfy any kind of traveler as it has everything- fantastic beaches, nature reserves , mountains with hiking trails, some of the most impressive architecture (Syracusa, Val di Noto, Palermo), important historical sights like the valley of temples in Agrigento, frozen in time mountain villages of Madonie , and even wonderful low-key Egadi and high-end Aeolian islands you can easily catch a ferry to. 

But above the scenery and cultural sights, Sicily’s highlight is the locals. To me, Sicilians appeared to be some of the friendliest people compared to other parts of Italy. Locals in Sicily are genuinely happy to see you and are very welcoming, curious, and outgoing.

• Make sure to also check my post about 21 must-visit places in Sicily .
• Find The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.

4. Is it safe to travel to Sicily – the birthplace of the Mafia?

Travelling in Sicily is very safe. From my personal experience everywhere we went felt extremely safe in Sicily. People are very welcoming, kind, and genuinely curious about travelers. 

Leaving the luggage in the car was probably my biggest safety concern while road tripping in Sicily . Leaving bags in the car was heavily advised against on other travel blogs, but in reality, it wasn’t an issue at all. Of course, there is no need to irresponsibly display your digital camera, laptop, or wallet on the seat which could seduce some robbers. But even if you left some of your belongings in the back seat, it doesn’t mean someone will definitely break into your car. 

The only place I was looking over my shoulder was when we walked in the Ballaro neighborhood in Palermo. Later on, however, our local host explained that there was nothing to be worried about. Apparently, Mafia owns many hotels and restaurants in the capital of Sicily. That means tourism is one of their main businesses and travelers are sort of looked after. Thus, small criminals don’t dare to touch a tourist. 

Regardless, I would still suggest keeping your guard up in busy areas of Palermo as pickpocketing certainly happens. Just make sure to keep your wallet and phone somewhere safer than the back pocket of your jeans when walking in crowded areas of Palermo, or Catania. 

WHEN TO TRAVEL TO SICILY

5. the best time to visit sicily-when should you go.

The best time to visit Sicily is from May to the beginning of June, and from September to the beginning of October. These are shoulder seasons when the weather is great both on the coast, in the towns, and in the mountains. Also, around these months tourists either haven’t arrived yet or already departed.

If you love beaches, September will be better than May as the water in the sea is still warm as opposed to slightly chilly late spring temperatures.

If you don’t care much about the beaches and swimming, and prefer cultural activities, like wandering UNESCO-listed towns and small villages, then any time of the year is a good time as Sicily has a pleasant island climate all year round. You might encounter some fogs and rain if you visit during autumn/winter. On the bright side, it may add to the mysterious atmosphere and interesting photography scenarios.

I would suggest avoiding July and especially August when the majority of Italians are on vacation. Prices of accommodation and car rental shoot up, while beaches and towns are packed with people- not the greatest time to travel to Sicily.

Nonetheless, if you only have summer months, you can still have a great time and pick some less visited places around the Island. Sicily has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored. 

• READ MORE: Planning on hiring a car in Sicily? Here are my 21 Useful Tips for Driving in Sicily, Italy.

6. Go before it is too late! 

Is Sicily very touristy? Yes and no, depending on which place and when you choose to go.

In recent years Sicily has definitely seen a quick increase not only in local but also in foreign tourism. The rough towns like Palermo which used to be considered a bit dangerous, are now completely tourist-friendly and adapted to serve the foreign visitor.

Meanwhile, even remote villages are slowly but steadily opening up cozy B&Bs and getting completely booked out during the peak season.

While many popular beach towns are packed with sun-seekers and local holidaymakers during summer, still there are enough places on the island where you can have an authentic Sicilian experience without crowds. But don’t wait too long, as with social media being so proactive, Sicily is getting on tourist radar pretty fast. Some of the seemingly remote places I have discovered on Instagram!

GETTING TO AND AROUND SICILY

7. three ways of getting to sicily: airplane, ferry, or train.

Sicily is an island separated from the mainland of Italy by the narrow strait of Messina. The good news is that Sicily is very well connected not only to mainland Italy but also to the rest of Europe and even other parts of the world.

Getting to Sicily by air

As expected, most travelers come to Sicily by air. There are 3 airports in Sicily-one in the capital Palermo in the West North, one in Catania in the East, and one in Trapani in the West of the island.

If you are flying from Europe, sometimes you can get insanely cheap deals to land in Sicily.  Search for the best flight deals using KIWI flight search aggregator .

Getting to Sicily by ferry

Another also quite popular option to reach Sicily is taking a ferry, both nationally and internationally. 

Nationally, the main places from where you can reach Sicily are Rome, Naples, Salerno, Genoa, and San Giovani in Calabria (southern Italy-the toe of the boot).

The overnight ferries from Naples, Salerno, Genoa, and Rome arrive in Palermo. Meanwhile, if you are traveling by land from Southern Italy, you can take a 30 min ferry from Villa San Giovani to the port town of Messina, Sicily. This is precisely what we did on our combined Sicily and Calabria road trip. 

Internationally, you can reach Sicily from Malta and Tunisia. 

Top tip: Ferries to Sicily also accommodate various vehicles. Therefore, if you travel by car, instead of driving long distances, you can “jump” onto the ferry.

• You can easily search for the ferry schedules from your selected departure place using the Directferries website.

Popular ferry routes to Sicily

• Palermo-Naples: 10.5- 11.5 hours; from 50 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Palermo-Rome (Civitavecchia): 14.5 hours; from 60 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Palermo-Genoa: 19.5-20.5 hours; from 45 or 75 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Messina- Salerno: 9-10.5 hours; from 52 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Messina- Reggio Calabria (South Italy) : 30 minutes; from 10 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Catania- Valletta (Malta): 4 hours 45 minutes; from 80 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here
• Palermo-Tunis (Tunisia): 10.5 hours; from 85 EUR one way (foot passenger); book tickets here

Getting to Sicily by train

The third way is taking a train from the mainland of Sicily. There are train departures from Rome (12 hours) and Naples (9 hours) to Palermo. The train also has routes heading to East Sicily and stops in Taormina, Catania, and Syracuse.

Question- how on Earth does this train get through the water? Apparently, there is a special ferry which transports, yes, the train! This could be an interesting and fun travel experience.

• You can find a train route and book tickets from Italy to Sicily using Omio train search aggregator.

8. Driving is by far the best way to explore Sicily

I am a huge fan of road trips, and Sicily is a perfect place to go on one (check out my 2-week in Sicily Itinerary ).

I am sure you have heard that driving in Sicily might be challenging, which is partially true (if you don’t know what to expect).

However, driving is by far the most convenient way to get around Sicily as you don’t have to rely on irregular and not frequent public transport schedules. Also, hidden gems are only accessible by car (well, in some cases by boat-like Favignana island ). Finally, you will be able to travel at your own pace and get from place to place much faster than with a train or a bus. 

Therefore, I strongly recommend renting a car if you are planning to see more than just bigger towns like Catania or Palermo (those places don’t require a car). 

Important: book your car well in advance to get the best deal! We booked 3 months ahead to secure a good deal (20 EUR per day). If you leave it to the last minute, chances are, the car rental rates will be much higher.

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.

9. Getting around Sicily with public transport

Public transport in Sicily connects main destinations and more popular tourist towns like Palermo, Catania, Agrigento, Taormina, Messina, and Trapani. If you are not willing to drive you might be able to find your way around using only busses, or trains. Also, you can join organized day trips to places like Taormina, Etna Volcano, and Agrigento.

When it comes to using public transport in Sicily, buses are known to be the most complicated to deal with. I have read stories of buses having completely unreliable schedules, lack of accurate timetables online, needless to say not the most frequent service.

All this makes travelling and planning your time quite tricky. Although, larger companies like Interbus are pretty good. However, regional buses, unless you have unlimited time in Sicily, you can forget about. More often than not, you will have to rely on asking around for accurate information when travelling between smaller towns.

I personally would avoid using buses, except if you are planning to get between main towns and are not going to explore beyond the main tourist destinations. Even some of those places do not always have a guaranteed regular connection.

Trains mainly connect the coastal part of Sicily but are not available for the inland due to its mountainous terrain. Trains as far as I have researched are quite efficient and run according to schedule.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR SICILY ROUTE

10. how many days do you need in sicily .

You need at least 2 weeks and at least 5 different overnight bases to explore the whole perimeter of the island at a medium pace .

To see all the highlights plus some hidden gems of Sicily you will need at least 3 weeks, ideally a month. Having this amount of time, you can slowly drive all around the island discovering different parts of Sicily. Those would include beaches, mountains, archeological sites, baroque towns, fishing villages, Etna volcano and you can even squeeze in a trip to Egadi or Aeolian islands.

Do not try to see the whole island of Sicily in one week. Sicily is bigger than it looks at a first glance. Driving time from West to East of the island is around 4.5 hours.

Understandably, not everyone has a month worth of time to allocate for their vacation. Still,  as a bare minimum, I would recommend 10 to 14 days in Sicily . However, you will have to be strategic about how and where you spend your time. You will definitely have to trim down the long list of places of interest in Sicily leaving only what excites you the most. 

If you have only around one week in Sicily, the best is to focus on one side of the island. For example, highlights of the west and northwest part, or highlights of the east and southeast part of Sicily, depending on which airport you land at. Definitely don’t try to move all the way from west to east as you will end up spending most of the time in a car. 

• Check my two-week road trip itinerary for inspiration and help to you plan your own vacation in Sicily.

11. Choose West Sicily and the hinterlands for a more authentic experience and wild nature

If you are landing in Palermo or Trapani, you are for a treat of wild beaches and nature, the unfiltered lifestyle of Palermo, sleepy Madonie mountain villages, and a slow-paced Favignana island. Western and Norther parts of Sicily are less touristy than the Eastern part. This means you will have a very authentic travel experience wherever you choose to go.

12. Choose East Sicily for Baroque and Greek architecture, Etna volcano, and famous archeological sites

If you are landing in Catania on the Eastern part of Sicily, then you are getting a treat of unparalleled architectural gems-Val di Noto baroque towns like Ragusa, the Greek amphitheater of Taormina, the valley of temples in Agrigento, spectacular Syracuse with Ortigia at its heart, and mighty Etna volcano which you can explore up close by hiking .

Note, that the Eastern part of Sicily is more touristy (due to its cultural wanders and a large number of UNESCO heritage sights which indeed made Sicily famous).

13. The best beaches in Sicily are on the northwestern side of the island. 

If you are seeking the sun and going to Sicily mainly for the beaches, then head to the North West. Here, you can find crystal clear waters and some of the most spectacular beaches in Sicily.

The mountainous backdrop characterizes the northwest of the coast. There you will find a perfect natural combination of mountains and the sea offering an array of hiking and swimming activities in one place.

You can find exactly that in Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve . To me, it was the best nature spot with the most incredible beaches in the whole of Sicily.

If you love sandy beaches, then San Vito Lo Capo at the northwestern tip of the island is a place to be. If you are looking for great city vibes with a close-by beach escape then Mondelo beach is just 30min drive from Palermo.

Finally, Favignana islands on the West side of Sicily will surprise you will azure waters and wild beaches to lay your towel at. Read my post about visiting Favignana island for more details.

14. Mix up big cities, small towns, and the seaside for a diverse experience in Sicily

To get a real taste of Sicily, plan on visiting a mix of different parts of the island. To understand daily hustle and bustle as well as admire impressive historical buildings, aim for a few days in the biggest towns (Palermo, Catania, Ortigia Island in Syracuse), for the beach scene, go to smaller seaside towns (Cefalu, Castellammare del Golfo), you will find UNESCO listed Baroque architecture in Ragusa, Modica or Noto, for the important archeological treasures head to Agrigento, while for chilled island life- to Egadian islands, for raw nature – to Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve, and to get the sense of the frozen time drive up to medieval villages in Madonie mountains. 

15. Get used to sweating up the hill-mountainous terrain of Sicily

Sicily’s climate and terrain can be very unforgiving in summer. It might become overwhelming if you are not used to almost African heat and hiking. Many Sicilian towns are located in mountainous areas. Getting from landmark to landmark on foot will require broken-in shoes, a hat for shade, lots of sunscreen, and good stamina. Indeed if you are planning to visit some of the small mountain tows, be ready to burn a few calories (which is great considering the carbs intake you will have while in Sicily).

ACCOMMODATION – WHERE TO STAY IN SICILY

There is no shortage of accommodation in Sicily. Depending on your budget, you can pick a room in a boutique hotel, stay in a dorm or in a fancy timeless hotel, rent a cozy apartment or opt for a homestay. Bigger towns like Palermo and Catania or Trapani will have all these options. Meanwhile smaller villages may only offer homestays and boutique hotels. In remote locations, you may not always find dorms in Sicily.

The only type of accommodation I have not seen (gladly) was monstrous seaside hotels. Okay maybe a couple of ugly ones in Cefalu were ruining the scenery, but they weren’t nearly as massive as the ones you can find in the UAE or Turkey, for example. And I hope it will stay this way.

16. Stay in homestays for the best local experience in Sicily

I always aim to support local small businesses when travelling, and one of the best ways to do so is to stay in a family-run B&B. Not only do you bring business to a local family but in return, you get more personal and warm treatment as opposed to the very formal approach in regular hotels.

Finally, Sicilians are very knowledgeable about their local area and they are more than happy to share some tips for sightseeing, the best places to eat, and sometimes they even cook for you!

For example, we were very lucky with our host in Palermo who was extremely passionate about his town and Sicily overall. He shared some insider tips, and fantastic stories about Palermo, and gave some great insights about Sicily. It enriched our travel experience and helped us understand the local culture much better. 

17. Book your stays in popular destinations in Sicily early in advance

Some of the towns in Sicily receive way more visitors than the others during the high season (July/August). Therefore, booking early is strongly recommended.

The most popular places which get booked out are Cefalu, Taormina, Syracuse and Ortigia, Favignana (Egadi islands), and Trapani.

For example, even at the beginning of May, accommodation in Cefalu seemed to be 70 percent occupied when I looked it up on the booking site. So I can imagine it can be pretty tough finding a place to stay in summer, let alone getting a reasonable deal.

Alternatively, if you are driving, there are countryside guesthouses called Agriturismo- those are usually fantastic family-run getaways not too far from the main towns.

Book Accommodation in Sicily

Look for the best rates and perfect places to stay on Booking.com

18. Make sure to check if the parking is available and is not in the ZTL zone

If you are driving, parking is one f the factors you will be making your decision about whether or not you should book a place. Often in towns like Cefalu, there won’t be any parking included in accommodations located in the historic center. Thus, you might have to look for a place to stay outside but close enough to the historic center.

Also, in case you manage to find a place to stay which offers parking in the historic center, double-check with your host if it doesn’t fall under ZTL (Zona Trafico Limitato) , which only permits registered vehicles. You can read more about sneaky ZTL zones in my post about driving in Sicily .

GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH SICILIAN CULTURE

19. travel to sicily just for food.

You could travel to Sicily just for the food.  From the famous Pasta alla Norma , tuna burgers, couscous with fish, all sorts of arancini , pizzas to ricotta-filled pastries with cannoli being the king of all, brioche with ice cream, and many more- eating Sicilian specialties can keep you busy all day long. Just looking at the menu in trattoria you can quickly realize that Sicilian cuisine adopted the crossroads of civilizations. There are flavors from Europe and Africa on one plate.

Moreover, Sicily’s capital Palermo is worldwide famous for the best street food. Therefore, forget about fancy restaurants, and go try the fast food- it is fresh and delicious.

20. Breakfast is not the main meal of the day, but in Sicily, you can fuel up with ice cream in a bun

Sicilian breakfast (as common everywhere in Italy) is always sweet. But having ice cream in brioche is something unheard of and probably only to be found in Sicily.

I know that eating an omelet in the morning sounds bizarre to Italians, but come on, ice cream with bread?! This is whole another level of weird…

Nonetheless, this combination is a guaranteed energy boost and is extremely filling. I have tried brioche with ice cream but decided to stick to the regular pastry and coffee.

Note: when you see breakfast included in your accommodation booking, do not expect English breakfast with sausages and beans. Usually, you will only get coffee and pastries. On a rare occasion, you may find B&Bs offering some panini (sandwiches with ham and cheese). Continental breakfast is only common in bigger hotels.

21. Catch up on your sleep during riposo – understanding Sicilian time (aka siesta) 

You probably have heard of siesta in south European countries. Unlike any other timing-related matters, Sicily is taking the midday nap very seriously.

Shops, museums, and restaurants close for so-called riposo or siesta at around 12-1 pm and re-open at around 3-4 pm or even later. Siesta’s starting time is always on the dot while the finishing time is sort of flexible.

Longer siestas are very common in smaller towns. We have struggled to find a place to eat lunch in Madonie mountain villages-everything was closed, and there was no live soul to be seen in the afternoon. Taking into account Sicilian summer heat, having a power nap in the middle of the day is probably the best thing you can do. 

Sundays are usually days off and shops and museums, and even some restaurants are also shut for the whole day.

However, in bigger towns like Palermo and Catania, as well as touristy places like Cefalu, Taormina, or Syracuse you can find quite a lot of cafes and gelaterias, and casual eateries which are open during siesta hours and even on Sundays.

22. There is time for aperitivo and then there is time for dinner

Restaurants and trattorias usually open at around 6-7 pm, however actual dinner time is around 8-9 pm in Sicily and Italy. Therefore, it is recommended to reserve a table to avoid the disappointment of having to wait for an even later meal.

However, before heading out for dinner, you should not miss aperitivo which is a time between late afternoon and dinner when people head out for a drink and a small snack before they actually go to have a proper meal.

23. What is coperto – tipping culture and service fee in Sicily, Italy

Coperto (or servizio ) in Italy and also Sicily is a fixed service fee that you pay per person for being served at a restaurant. The amount you must pay varies from place to place but usually it ranges between 1-2 euros. Some more expensive restaurants may charge 2.5-5 euros for coperto per person.

The amount of coperto is usually indicated on the menu. It is a fixed charge and doesn’t depend on how much or little you eat or how long you spend at a table. 

If I pay coperto , do I have to leave a tip? 

If you love the service and food, the tip will be highly appreciated but it is not a must in Sicily, Italy. 

24. Coffee price at a bar vs at a table. 

Note that you may have to pay coperto in some coffee shops/bars if you choose to have your cappuccino at a table rather than at a bar, as most Sicilians do. Most likely the cost of being served coffee at a table will range from 20 euro cents to one euro.

This doesn’t apply to all coffee shops though. Charging extra for a coffee at a table is more common in touristy and popular areas or famous fancy coffee places. For example, I have been to places in Venice, Rome, Amalfi Coast , and Naples where we had to pay extra for having our cappuccini at a table. Smaller and more casual bars and coffee shops do not collect this fee.

LANGUAGE AND INTERACTION WITH LOCALS

25. few italian phrases will go a long way but be ready for the sicilian language.

Sicilians barely speak English. Most of the locals don’t speak a word, especially in smaller towns and villages. I can count on my one hand fingers how many fluent English speakers we met on our road trip (when I think of it, probably only 3 or 4 people were very well versed in English and those guys were our hosts at the B&B). Nonetheless, you can still meet younger generation people working at bars and restaurants who can speak some basic English, but not as much as you may expect.

Moreover, even information in museums, churches, and even parking signs are in Italian! Therefore, learning some basic survival phrases in the local language will go a long way.

After many years of thinking about it, I finally signed up for an online Italian course just 3 months before my Sicily road trip. I could not be happier about dedicating some time to learning Italian. It really came in handy in Sicily and South Italy.

It seemed that Sicilians really appreciated my effort to speak in Italian, even if it was a very basic conversation. It also helped me to understand simple daily things related to accommodation questions and directions. And don’t worry if you don’t know how to say something properly, Sicilians will always try to help you out when you are lost in translation.

Nonetheless, there was a bit of a catch. Sicilians apparently often speak the Sicilian language (it is a language, not even a dialect). Although they do speak official Italian, there were times when they spoke in Sicilian and it sounded like a totally different language- I couldn’t catch a single familiar word!

However, this didn’t happen often. Most of the time people spoke regular Italian and if you are lucky- even a few English words.

If you are thinking of learning some Italian basics, the best interactive course that I found online is Rocket Languages. Rocket Italian course is a set of audio conversations, grammar, and written and oral practice. You can have it on an app on your phone or your laptop, and learn at your own pace, come back to it whenever you want to repeat something or skip ahead.

Subscribing to the course gives you a 2-week free trial, lifetime access, and also 60-day money-back guarantee if you don’t find it useful (I definitely find it super useful and I still continue to study after my trip).

Learn Italian

Sign up for Rocket Italian language course before your Sicilian trip

26. Make sure to meet the locals

Interact with locals. 

Sightseeing is amazing, but the true joy is in those short (or long) conversations and cheerful interactions with the local people. Sicilians are very outgoing and friendly (I think I already mentioned that before).

Even if you don’t speak Italian, don’t shy away from the hand language. I am sure the minimum you can learn is a friendly ‘ciao’ when you meet a person on the street. Trust me, they will happily respond. Sicilians are often curious to know where you are coming from-‘ di dove sei? ‘.

Usually, their guesses revolve around the most well-known destinations such as UK, Germany, France, or America (apparently people from these countries are frequent visitors). Sicilians were extremely delighted to find out that we came all the way from the UAE to their beautiful island. In fact, many of them confessed that Dubai is their dream destination to travel to. To this, I always joyfully replied, that yes indeed it is a beautiful place to see and live, but there is no place as wonderful as Sicily (I do have a very soft spot for Italy- a perfect place to move to one day). 

27. Avoid the “M” word

Sicily is often associated with the birthplace of the Mafia. Thanks to Hollywood films that have glorified organized criminal groups in the movies such as Godfather, there are a lot of misconceptions about past events. In reality, Sicilians had to deal with horror created by the local mafia and face consequences until today.

Therefore, this is a sensitive subject to bring up when talking to locals. It is not advisable to joke about it as you never know whose family member has actually been a victim of organized crime in Sicily.

Although the local mafia in Sicily still exists and operates today. In some places, business owners still pay a second tax that goes to organized crime and so-called protection. 

However, as a tourist, you are not likely to come across any of these mafia-related aspects. Let alone experience any violence or dealings with the Mafia. Interestingly, in Palermo some hotels are owned by Mafia, while some actually set themselves free and signed anti-extortion charters – there is even a “pizzo-free” map with the list of these accommodations, in case you want to avoid supporting the bloody businesses. 

MONEY, INTERNET, SIM CARD, GROCERIES

28. is sicily expensive to travel to  .

Sicily is still less expensive to travel around than, for example, northern and central Italy. Especially if you go to smaller and less known towns like Castellammare del Golfo, you can find great accommodation deals. When it comes to food, you can get some bargain deals for street food in Palermo, amazing pizzas, and an unlimited supply of pastries everywhere.

You can check the budget breakdown on my Sicily Road Trip Itinerary post HERE to get an idea of what it costs to travel in Sicily.

29. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Sicily but always have some small change

Contrary to what I have read online before traveling to Sicily, debit and credit cards were widely accepted across the island. Even in smaller restaurants and shops. We paid for all our accommodation by card and very rarely needed to use cash (usually the possibility to pay by card is indicated on booking, or it is an automated advance charge prior to arrival).

Nonetheless, I still advise having some emergency cash for small spending. Not all the shops will have card machines, and even if they do, sometimes they may say it is not working so they can collect cash (as we learned from a local).

Some self-service petrol stations might also have card issues- which happened to us- and in this case, you definitely want to have cash.

Also buying small things like souvenirs or paying for toll gates is usually more convenient in cash.

30. Get a local sim card for cheaper data

If you are travelling for a couple of weeks in Sicily, it is well worth getting a local sim card with data and calls. It would usually be much cheaper than roaming. Tourist packs are available to purchase from TIM or Vodafone-those providers are offering pay-as-you-go tourist packages with the best coverage.

31. Be ready to allocate a couple of hours to sort out SIM card

Okay, there is a catch when it comes to sorting out the local SIM card in Italy, and also Sicily. It is probably one of the most complicated places when it comes to getting a data plan. The tricky part is that you may not be able to get SIM card at the airport which is the most convenient way when starting your journey in a foreign country.

Instead, you may have to look for a local TIM or Vodafone store in the town. If you are renting a car at the airport, the best way is to look up the nearest store and pre-download its location on Google Maps.

Be aware of your arrival time- if it is during working hours or not. Also, take siesta time into consideration (stores close from around 1-2 PM till 4-5 PM). Luckily, this might not be applicable if the store is located in a bigger shopping center. However, malls are not that common in Italy.

Once you are at the store, expect around 30 minutes to sort out payment, and installation, and then add another hour for activation of the SIM.

I am sharing my personal experience here. When landed at Naples airport, there was no SIM card shop available (2022). Therefore, we pre-downloaded Google maps with the nearest mall that had TIM shop (it was open during siesta time- made sure to check it). It took around 2 hours to sort out the internet but it was totally worth it to get this out of the way for our 3 -week-long journey in South Italy and Sicily. We purchased a generous 70GB plan for around 20 EUR, which was valid for 30 days, local calls included.

32. Big supermarkets are less popular than local specialty shops and markets

When travelling to Sicily, and also Italy, you may notice that big supermarkets are not that common. Thus, whenever you want to do grocery shopping, it might not be as per your usual habit of buying everything in one spot.

In Sicily, people still love using markets and specialty shops where they buy a specific product. There are separate pescaterias (fish shop), paneterias (bakeries), cheese, meat, fresh pasta, and vegetable shops. Those are the best places to get fresh produce.

Certainly, you can find mini-markets in every town where they sell the basics- milk, eggs, canned stuff, a small selection of cheese and sausages as well as some cleaning and shower products, detergents, and whatnot.

Talking about mini markets, we had a fun experience in Castellamare del Golfo. We were looking for a small bottle of olive oil to use for breakfast, but all shops had only 1-liter bottles which we couldn’t carry around and it would have been a waste of buying one. A lady working at one of the mini-markets in town understood our situation, and literally pulled out a bottle of olive oil and poured some of it into a small plastic cup for us to take away (at no extra cost). It was very kind of her and something you are not likely to experience in big shopping centers.

33. Covid – 19 in Sicily requirements

Today you can travel to Sicily and Italy by air for tourism purposes. All Covid-19 regulations have been lifted for travel to Italy. For more information about the requirements related to covid- 19 refer to this page .

Masks are still being worn inside supermarkets, churches, and museums. It was a strict requirement to wear a special medical mask (sold at the coffee shop at the port in case you don’t have one) on the Trapani-Favignana ferry. I have noticed that many elderly people still wore masks outside, and even in small towns. Knowing that Italy was one of the countries hardest hit by pandemics, it comes as no surprise.

Have you ever been to a destination where traveling felt challenging, or on the contrary- a complete breeze? Share your experience in the comments below. Also, if you have more questions about traveling to Sicily, please feel free to get in touch.

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 .
• 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.
• 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 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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A Sicily bucket list: 20 of the best things to do

Updated On 1st February, 2024

If you’re looking for the best things to do on your next trip to Sicily, you’ve arrived at the right place. Sicily has got to be one of the best places to visit in Italy… even if it feels worlds away from the main cities to visit such as  Rome  or Milan. Beautiful cities, wonderful views, stunning beaches and an active volcano… Where do you start on your Sicilian adventure!?

In this blog post, I am going to share what, in my opinion, are the best things to do in Sicily, the best places to visit in Sicily and the best things to eat and drink when in Sicily. If this is your first adventure in  Italy , you’re in for a treat. Depending on if you’re planning to visit more than one region, you may like to read my  guide to Palermo, Sicily  or my  ultimate Rome travel guide.

I am lucky enough to be able to see Sicily from my bedroom window. Living in the South of  Italy  has its perks. Being right on my doorstep, I’ve taken many an opportunity to explore this hidden gem of an island – and I’ve barely scratched the surface so far. It’s one of  Europe’s most hidden gems ; tourists are very quick to flock to the capital of  Rome , to the romantic city of Florence, to go on a gondola in Venice or to the fashionable city of Milan… and stunning Sicily is often overlooked. But with fantastic local produce, a fascinating Greek history, as well as diverse landscapes such as beaches, mountains and active volcanoes (which you can ski on!), visiting Sicily is definitely one of the  best things to do in Europe .

There’s so much to see and do on this beautiful island, and so I’ve put together a bucket list of the best things to do in Sicily to inspire you to go on an adventure there…

Blog posts and travel guides you may find useful:

• Europe: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• The best things to do in Palermo, Sicily
• How to spend a weekend in Rome, Italy
• An 8-day itinerary through France & Switzerland
• A summer guide to Chamonix, France
• A 3-day road trip through Normandy, Northern France
• A weekend skiing in La Plagne, France
• A spring weekend in Annecy, France
• A guide to driving from England to Portugal

EXPLORE EUROPE ON THE BLOG HERE

Here’s the ultimate bucket list and the best things to do in Sicily, Italy…

1. explore the historical city of palermo..

The capital of the island is over 2,700 years old, and full of culture and architecture to show for it. Famous for its history and street food, it’s a stunning city to walk around and perfect for a weekend break. Some of the best things to do in Sicily are to try and catch a show at the Teatro Massimo while you’re exploring Palermo, and be sure to visit the markets for street food or a night out! Just outside the city lies the beautiful beach of Mondello, which is definitely worth a visit.

A complete guide to Palermo, Sicily

2. Hike Mount Etna.

The highest volcano in Europe and one of the most active in the world… get your hiking boots out, this is absolutely one of the best things to do in Sicily!

Mount Etna National Park spans over 220 square miles and 20 towns, meaning you’ll see a variety of barren areas of lava, volcanic craters, woods and vineyards on your travels there. You can even ski down Mt Etna! To reach the summit you have to be on a guided tour (and you can’t always reach the summit if Etna’s feeling particularly active that day), but the views when you reach the top are extraordinary.

Check out my  beginner’s guide to hiking here .

EXPLORE ACTIVE TRAVEL ON THE BLOG HERE

3. Have dinner in a cave in Catania.

A Putia Dell’Ostello is a restaurant in a cave – and the experience is very cool! When I went we were lucky enough to get a table right in centre, right by the stream that runs through the cave. The food was good (but not the best I’ve had in Sicily), and if you don’t fancy dinner you can just go for drinks.

EXPLORE CITY BREAKS ON THE BLOG HERE

4. Go swimming in the Alcantara Gorge.

This spot is often overlooked by tourists but very popular with locals in the summer! You can hike up the gorge and then climb down to swim or paddle in the refreshingly cool water.

Canyoning is also an option if you fancy a bit more of an adrenaline rush!

Check out my  guide to planning your next adventure here .

5. Enjoy the amphitheatre in Taormina.

Taormina is absolutely stunning and one of the top places to visit in Sicily! Take the bus up from the train station and spend some time visiting the little independent boutique stores, as well as the world-famous ancient Greek amphitheatre. If you’re lucky and you time your visit right, you might be able to watch a show there!

Top tip:  Many museums and cultural sites in Italy have free entry on the first Sunday of the month. If you don’t time your visit for then, most also have reduced rates for EU citizens between the ages of 18-25!

While you’re in the Taormina area don’t miss…

• Isola Bella.  A tiny but beautiful island just off the coast! Great if you want to relax on the beach for a while.
• Castelmola.  A village above Taormina that is built into the ruins of a Norman castle. The views are incredible! There is also a very cheeky bar called ‘Bar Turrisi’ that has anything and everything shaped as a penis…! Good for a girly visit and a good giggle.

See my  hidden gems you must visit when planning European adventure here.

6. Join a street food tour.

Sicily is famous for its street food, and what better way to taste everything than with a local?! If food is your jam a street food tour is one of the best things to do in Sicily.

Street food tours definitely happen in Palermo and Catania, the two biggest cities on the island, but they might happen elsewhere too. Make sure you try panelle, arancine, cannoli, granita and more!

6. Wander around the ancient towns of Siracusa and Ortigia.

These world-famous ancient towns are some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Whether you’re into history, or just want somewhere pretty to visit – there’s something for everyone in this part of Sicily. The Ear of Dionysius was a highlight for me here. The giant, ear-shaped cave echoes marvellously when you’re inside. When I visited, a man was singing as I walked round, and it was magical.

See my  10 dreamy spring weekends in Europe here.

7. Go island hopping.

The Aeolian Islands are still on my bucket list and an adventure is one of the most beautiful and best things to do in Sicily! Island hopping across volcanic islands for a week or two sounds like the perfect adventure.

Alternatively, try the Aegadian Islands, five mountainous islands off the west coast, famous for the beautiful year-round weather (front is unknown here!) and wonderful, fresh, seafood (luckily, something that is wonderful across the South of Italy!).

Top tip: Get more  sustainability tips for travelling in Europe in this blog post !

8. Visit the Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi) in Agrigento.

Home to some of the largest and best-preserved Greek temples outside of Greece, this area of Sicily is well worth a visit if you’re into ancient history. If you’re not, the city of Agrigento itself is very modern and makes for a nice weekend break.

9. Marvel at the Scala dei Turchi.

Just outside of Agrigento, this beautiful ‘Turkish staircase’ made of marl, a white limestone rock, lies between two beaches. At the moment you cannot climb on the steps, as Sicily is trying its best to preserve this natural phenomenon, but it’s still one of the best places to visit in Sicily and makes for some epic photography!

10. Head on a yoga & kitesurfing retreat.

Floripa offer all-inclusive yoga and kitesurfing retreats in the south of Sicily.  Check out the website here.

Check out my  bucket list of wellness retreats here .

EXPLORE WELLBEING ON THE BLOG HERE

11. Enjoy traditional Sicilian puppet theatre (opera dei pupi).

Part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, you can choose to either watch a show or admire the collection of marionettes in a local museum.

Adding Rome to your Italian adventure?  Check out my complete guide to Rome here.

12. Visit the old towns of Noto, Modica and Ragusa.

These three villages are about an hour apart by car, but well worth a visit if you can as they are some of the best places to visit in Sicily! Ragusa was my personal favourite; the architecture here is absolutely stunning. Modica is famous for its raw chocolate, so make sure you give that a try! Noto is another charming town that is worth a visit, and all three are part of the Val di Noto, a group of 8 cities that are on the UNESCO world heritage list.

13. Take a day trip to Monreale.

Just outside of Palermo lies a little town with a beautiful cathedral. Make sure you pay to climb the tower and see the views across Sicily! I’d also highly recommend meandering the backstreets to visit the workshops with handmade jewellery… I wish I’d bought more!

14. Spend carnivale in Acireale.

Traditional masks and costumes, parades, lights and lots of hustle and bustle… it’s one of the best places to visit in Italy in February! Expect two weeks of family-friendly partying!

Top tip: Check out more ways to  keep fit when you’re travelling in this blog post!

15. Spend a day in the town of Cefalù.

As a popular holiday destination, this is definitely a town to enjoy off-season if you can. Enjoy walks along the coast and wandering through the old town. If you have the energy, hike up to the summit of La Rocca & Saline di Saraceni… the views are epic!

16. Say hello to the flamingos.

Yes, you read that correctly! In winter some greater flamingos migrate from Africa to Sicily. You can see them in the salt planes in Trapani and in Saline di Priolo (near Siracusa) from February through to August.

See my  22 top tips for travelling in Europe here.

17. Be at one with nature.

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Sicily if you want to get outdoors. Sicily is home to four national parks and seventy-six nature reserves… plenty of opportunity to breathe in the fresh air and go walking!

See my  21 cheap places to visit in Europe here

18. Go scuba-diving in the crystal clear waters.

The waters here are crystal blue, warm and perfectly clear… the perfect opportunity to dip your toes in the water and take a look at the fishies! The Aegadian Islands, Taormina, Naxos, the Aeolian Islands, Lampedusa and Capo Boeo are some of the best places to visit in Sicily if you love diving!

Check out my  guide to getting your PADI certificate here.

EXPLORE DIVING ON THE BLOG HERE

19. Go wine-tasting.

Sicily is known for some of the best wine in the world, and the island is home to many wineries and vineyards where you can taste the wines before you buy them to take back with you!

Top tip: Check out  how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here!

20. Road trip around the whole island.

Something I would love to do, if I can find the time! Fly to Sicily, hire a car for 2-3 weeks and spend some time making your way around the whole island and ticking everything off this bucket list! If you don’t drive, the route can be done with some careful planning of buses and trains.

EXPLORE ROAD TRIPS ON THE BLOG HERE

See my  bucket list of van life road trips in Europe here.

EXPLORE ITALY ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been to Sicily? What do you think are the best things to do in Sicily?

What were your favourite things to do in Sicily? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring…

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Top 10 Sicily Travel Tips

In the spring of 2018, I spent three busy weeks in Sicily, circling the island to put the finishing touches on our brand-new Rick Steves Sicily guidebook — which is available now. Throughout that trip, I collected 10 favorite practical tips for traveling in Sicily. Special thanks to the book’s co-author, Sarah Murdoch, and contributing author Alfio di Mauro for their hard work and abundant insights. Amuni!

Visit a mix of big cities, smaller towns, and countryside sights.

For a good sampling of Sicily, plan to visit a mix of big cities (Palermo, Siracusa); smaller towns (Ragusa, Trapani, Taormina, Cefalù); and striking sights in the countryside (Mount Etna, ancient temples and theaters, the glittering mosaics at Monreale Cathedral). On a quick visit of just a few days, home-base in Taormina or Catania and make strategic side-trips to Siracusa and Mount Etna, then spend a day or two in Palermo. With more time, consider adding your choice of other towns: Agrigento (with its remarkable ancient temples), additional time in Siracusa (for its ancient sites and delightful urban bustle), Ragusa (for its low-key hill town ambience), Trapani (a pleasant west coast town with an array of tempting side-trips, from salt flats to hill towns to offshore islets), and the beach town of Cefalù. For most travelers, the best plan is to rent a car — but be prepared for the often challenging Sicilian roads , especially in cities. (And spring for the full insurance.)

Pig out on street food.

The island’s cuisine — which is distinctly different from mainland Italy’s — is, like Sicily, a unique mix of cultural influences. Choosing between eggplant pasta and fish couscous on the same menu, it’s clear that you’re at a crossroads of Europe and Africa. And some of the best food is also the cheapest. Sicily is renowned for its street food . Try an arancina (deep-fried saffron rice ball), panelle (chickpea fritters), sfincione (rustic, Sicilian-style “pizza”), polpo bollito (a boiled mini-octopus), and — if you dare — pani ca’ meusa …the famed spleen sandwich. To sample several items in one go, just wander through one of the characteristic street markets in Palermo or Catania…or join a street food tour.

Party with the Sicilians.

On this island of very tight-knit communities and fierce local pride, there’s always some big festival going on. Most towns celebrate their patron saint’s day by processing through the streets with an elaborate float (or several). Other celebrations fill a more specific niche. I happened to be in the pristine town of Noto during their biggest party of the year, the Infiorata di Noto. An entire street — several blocks long — was filled with gigantic murals , delicately constructed of flower petals.  And when I was in nearby Ragusa, the townspeople were celebrating the native Ragusano cheese. The town square hosted cooking demonstrations, and every restaurant in town was highlighting a special cheese-forward dish. While I enjoy the serendipity of just stumbling onto Sicilian celebrations, it’s smart to do some homework, find out what local festivities might be going on nearby, and make a point to drop by.

Bone up on ancient history.

In antiquity, Sicily was called Magna Graecia — “Greater Greece” — for the many Hellenic city-states that colonized the island. Ancient Syracuse (today’s Siracusa) was one of the most powerful city-states on the Mediterranean. Sicily was also an outpost of the mysterious Carthaginians , who were almost entirely wiped out by the Romans. And all of these civilizations left behind world-class artifacts. Scattered across Sicily are some of the best ancient Greek temples and theaters anywhere outside of Greece: the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento ; Europe’s largest archaeological area at Selinunte ; and the theaters in Taormina, Siracusa, and Segesta. The cathedral in Ortigia (Siracusa’s old town) is actually built upon the still-visible columns of a fifth-century B.C. temple. And deep in the remote interior of Sicily is the Villa Romana del Casale, with some of the world’s best-preserved floor mosaics. If you love ancient sites, Sicily will blow your mind. If you don’t…there’s no better place to start.

Visit Mount Etna for its amazing volcanic sights — and its wine.

Mount Etna , which (literally) gave rise to Sicily, is one of Europe’s most accessible active volcanoes. A cable car whisks you halfway up the mountain, and from there, you can hop on a monster-truck bus nearly all the way to the smoldering summit. (It tends to be clear first thing in the morning, then clouds over just as it gets crowded a few hours later — it’s smart to be on the first cable car, at 9:00.) But Mount Etna is also home to one of Italy’s most pleasant wine-growing regions. My favorite stretch — picturesque and still relatively off the beaten path — is on the north side of Etna, between the towns of Linguaglossa and Randazzo. The Etna wine scene has exploded in recent years, garnering more and more international attention. And even if you’re not into wines, the scenery is magnificent: vineyards stretching up sun-baked slopes toward the steaming, snow-capped cone of Etna. Several picturesque wineries offer tours and tastings; it’s customary to call a day or so ahead to let them know you’re coming. (Some favorite finds for the upcoming guidebook include the swanky Tenuta di Fessina , the cheerful Fattoria Romeo del Castello , and the family-run, nicely low-key Filippo Grasso .) If you’re serious about wine, Etna Wine School   — operated by an American vintner expat who literally wrote the book on Etna wines — offers private tours.

Be prepared for heat and hills.

At the same latitude as Spain’s Adalucía and Greece’s Cycladic Islands , Sicily can be very hot for much of the year. (Most of Sicily sits on the African tectonic plate — and the geology and climate really do feel closer to Africa than to Europe.) Many of Sicily’s best sights are dusty ancient landmarks, requiring a hike to reach, with little shade. And virtually nothing in Sicily sits on flat ground — you’ll encounter hills, hills, and more hills. Come prepared with broken-in shoes, sunscreen, and a hat for shade — and take plenty of breaks. Or consider coming off-season, when it’s cooler and less exhausting. Sicily is one of Europe’s most appealing winter destinations. It may not be balmy enough to swim in the ocean, but even in winter, you can often enjoy warm, sunny days and cool, refreshing nights….and zero crowds.

Unwind in the hill towns of the southeast.

Sicily can be intense. But one of my favorite little corners of the island is in the southeast, around the dramatic hill town of Ragusa. With green, rolling hills and neatly stacked stone fences, this area feels almost Celtic. And it’s one part of Sicily where most tourists aren’t Americans, or even northern Europeans — but Italians. In a short drive from Ragusa, you can link up some lovely towns: Modica, famous for its chocolate industry and its dual cathedrals (one on a hilltop, the other in a valley); Scicli, where troglodyte caves carved into the cliffs overlook a fun-to-explore town filling a valley; and beautifully Baroque Noto, rebuilt in a short period after a 1693 earthquake, giving it an unusual architectural harmony (not to mention its world-famous gelato shop, Caffé Sicilia). About halfway through my three-week journey around Sicily, I found Ragusa and the surrounding countryside to be the perfect place to settle in and just relax.

Peel back the layers of history.

Strategically located in the middle of the Mediterranean — practically forming a bridge from Italy to North Africa — Sicily’s culture has been shaped by a staggering variety of overlords and occupiers. There’s so much history on this little island that it’s tempting to just let it wash over you. But this is a place where it’s really worth studying up and grappling with the epic story. From the ancient foundations of the Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans, to the Arabs who controlled Sicily for more than two centuries (and, during that time, richly developed the island), to the Normans from France who “reclaimed” Sicily for the Christian world and slathered its churches with Byzantine-style mosaics, to the Spanish Bourbon kings who draped the island in a stately Baroque elegance, and even to the mafia who dominated much of Sicily’s 20th century (and whose influence is finally on the wane)…Sicily is a pastiche of history. Get to know and recognize the hallmarks of each period, and before you know it, you’ll be able to step into a church and say, “Wow, those Normans really did a number on this one.”

Go before it’s too late.

In just a few short years, Sicily has quickly become “ready for prime time.” Cities (like Siracusa or Palermo) that were rough, rugged, and a little dangerous have been prettied up and pedestrianized. I noticed lots of European travelers…but relatively few American ones. I was also struck by the relative lack of crowds — even in late May, when the weather’s perfect and mainland Italian cities like Venice and Florence are overrun. All of that is bound to change in the next few years, as more people find out what a great spot Sicily is. Go now, before the cat’s out of the bag.

Accept Sicily on Sicily’s terms.

Sicily is an ideal “deep cut” for Italy connoisseurs who’ve already seen Venice, Florence, and Rome, and want to experience a facet of Italy that’s more intense and challenging. But first-timers might find it a bit wild: buzzing motor scooters, potholed infrastructure, arm-waving people, and, yes, more graffiti and roadside garbage than you’re probably used to seeing. Sicily feels more like Mexico than like Milan. But that’s what I like about it. It’s rustic, rugged, close to the ground, and off the radar of most mainstream tourists. It takes a few days to adjust to the island’s unique rhythms, but once you do, it’s easy to get swept away by Sicily. Best of all, in all of Europe, Sicilians are some of the most enjoyable people to simply interact with. Walk through a bustling street market, strike up some conversations, and let a vendor talk you into buying a three-foot-long zucchini you don’t really need.

Our new Sicily guidebook — with all of the details about everything mentioned here — is available now.

In other blog posts, I wrote about Palermo’s amazing street food scene , the challenge of driving in Sicily , and a stop-by-stop rundown of the ultimate Sicilian road trip .

We also have a wealth of free Sicily content on our website, including a recommended itinerary, links to two new episodes of Rick’s public television series about Sicily, several interviews from Rick’s public radio show about Sicily, more gorgeous photographs, recommended books and movies about Sicily, and much more.

And if you’d like to visit Sicily — but would love it if someone else did all the driving, took care of the hotels and half of the meals, and explained it all to you — well, then, we have a great 11-day tour for you .

76 Replies to “Top 10 Sicily Travel Tips”

We went on a Sicily tour a few years ago and it was a great trip…a great place to visit. Fab sights, food, wine, and local people. Put it on your bucket list.

Lived and stationed there for 1 year. You did a great job capturing Sicily’s essence, but… the open air markets are a huge part of the culture. The beaches are not crowded until late June-July. I lived on the beach in off season. Sicilians think the Med which it is, is way too cold before. However March, April, May June the water temp can be high 60’s, which in the USA northeast is doable. Wind surfing is insane. The med is smooth. You need to experience the “real” Sicilian pizza. Not square, just be prepared for a 707… hot dog, peas, boiled egg. Fantastic! Marina Di Ragusa is one of the hottest beach towns going. It’s changed a lot since I was there in the 80’s and appears very vibrant and resort like from videos, blogs and emails I have received with an incredible boastful marina. Sicilia is amazing and unlike any place you will ever visit!

You can also ski My. Erna which I did after a major eruption in 88/89.

Mt. Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano.

We are headed to Sicily for 14 days on 10/3/19. Can’t wait!

Have family in Palazzo Adriano an Bivona and hope to steer clear of commercial areas!

Planning for fall 2019.

I am planning for fall 2019 as well. :)

And me, too! It’ll be my eighth RS tour. Really looking forward to it.

how was the tour? DH and I are considering it for 2021….Thanks!

We are off on a big 2.5 month trip to Europe May 2019. Spending most of it in Italy. Have relatives in Siracusa. Can’t wait. I will certainly be doing my research with all your info Thank you

We went on the Best of Sicily Tour in early November of 2015 and it was wonderful. The weather, food, scenery, people, the tour guide and whole experience was amazing. That’s why we keep coming back to Rick Steves. We are going on our 7th tour in October, The Best of Greece, Keep on Traveling!

Hi Paul! Going on the Sicily tour in fall 2019. Very excited! Hope you guys are well!

How was the tour? DH and I considering it for 2021.

Alfio showed us all these tips and more!! Go! Go! So much to love, learn and enjoy!

Reservations at agriturismos and B&B’s already set for September/October. Thanks for the travel tips!

Monreale is a 20m bus ride from Palermo. A beautiful beach one end with private swimming area and changing sheds chairs etc for minimal charge. At the other end explore the fishing boats. In between some good quality shops and plenty of cafes and food outlets.

Did you mean Mondello? Monreale is a hill town famous for the cattedrale, about 30 min bus ride from Piazza Indipendenza in Palermo

My wife, twins and I spent a few days in Palermo, and then two fabulous weeks in Cefalu, Sicily in February 2015. It was during nine months we spent traveling around the world, and to me, Cefalu was easily one of the highlights of that trip. I often say that if there is one place I would love to spend a year in, it would be Cefalu. Such warm people, great food and beautiful scenery. Sicily is such a great place to visit, and we really learned to love living at a more leisurely pace.

David, going to Cefalu in September, what should i see, and who do you recommend for restaurants, local tours etc…staying at artemis hotel

I agree! Cefalu was a highlight when I did RS Sicily tour in 2015.

Cameron, did you get to Caltegirone, the city of ceramics? We enjoyed it very much on an independent driving tour several years ago.

We look forward to these places every year & exactly how we plan both large & small and everything in between . A mix of our favourite places such as Marina di Ragusa , Modica. Scicli. Trapani , Marsala,Argrigento & Cefalu & so many more .This year adding visits to islands as well.

Good review. We wish there were more “deep cuts” in Europe like this. Usually Mafia or boat immigration fears scare many away. Fine with me. Too bad RS tours now leave off Cefalu. Was one of Rick’s early fav’s and part of why we went. The beautiful Aeolian Islands are the missing icing on this Sicilian cake description that are also must visits.

The view from the hwy as you approach cefalu is so spectacular. I agree, too bad its been dropped. The town itself is so interesting.

In future articles, would you please address what, if anything, comes out the volcano? I live in a place where I have to breath noxious gas, so have been apprehensive about visiting Sicily

I’ve spent 3 weeks in Siracusa on business and visited Mt. Etna and Taormina. Mt Etna has no impact on air quality which seems above average.

We took the 11 day tour of Sicily with Virginia as our guide…She was fabulous!!..very knowledgable with a great sense of humor!! Sicily is beautiful..it is a must see all on its own!

Coming into Palermo on a cruise ship in Oct. what would be the best day excursion?

In the city, walking through one of the markets is a must, and for three churches on Piazza Bellini are breathtaking. Outside of the city, my favorites are the glittering mosaic-slathered cathedral at Monreale, and the Ancient Greek theater and temple at Segesta. Happy travels!

Sicily is so wonderful and full of surpirises. By chance we found the small town outside of Siracusa. Plemmirio which is on the sea. The beauty here is amazing. Crystal clear waters where scuba or snorkeling is a dream. The lava rock on the shore aerea prevents erosion and there are a few sandy beaches scattered it. This is not a developed area, but some wonderful seaside rentals are available for about $100 a night. Google Plemirrio and check it out.

I went to Sicily a few years ago for a month,using Rick’s book as a guide.I absolutely love Sicily and the food!

It’s about time you were publishing a guide to Sicily!!!!

We plus family are going in late 2019 for our first trip to Sicily (been to Italy twice). Looking forward to purchasing the Rick Steves guide. Always use Rick’s guides.

I had the privilege of visiting Sicily in 1987! It seems like yesterday. Some highlights: –the golden glow of the sun on sandstone at Agrigento, definitely try to get there early –taking the first boat in the morning to Levanzo, one of the islands off Trapani. Being on the same boat as the newspapers and the live chickens for market was really unique –the cathedral in Cefalu built by Normans Roger II, but with Saracen arches Sicily is a fascinating mix. When I was in Trapani, I realized travel time to Africa (Tunis) was less than travel time to Rome.

Excellent article & tips, Cameron. Also, fantastic photos. We love Sicily and cannot wait to return after enjoying three lovely months renting apartments in a residential neighborhood in Siracusa & Catania. It was the perfect get-away from NYC’s cold winter months in mid December 2017 – January, February & March 2018. The weather was comfortable, the locals friendly & warm, bus & train transportation between nearby cities (Palermo, Noto, Modica, etc) were convenient, the outdoor markets in Siracusa, Catania & Palermo – were our highlights. Sicily’s culture and cuisine outstanding and the exciting site of Mt. Etna was breath-taking.

I haven’t made it to Ragusa, Scicli, or Modica yet, (or anywhere else in Sicily) but I’ve wanted to go ever since I saw the Italian television series Il Commissario Montalbano, which is shot in those towns. (It runs in the U.S., with subtitles, on a streaming service called Mhz Choice.) The opening sequence shows off the region: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lNsc0zqxC0

sorry you will be sending throngs to the italy the way it once was (don’t call sicilians italians or italians sicilians, however)! we spent 4 weeks this spring driving the coast and interior. just buzzing through on a tour is regrettable and some basic italian phrases are really helpful. the cities are the ugliest I have ever seen in europe with trash (not organic garbage) there and at every turn in the road in the west. but the people are the nicest in europe (which is why you want to know some Italian and chat), going out of their way to help and never wanting a tip for doing so (it’s insulting). the cuisine is not refined…heavy on starches and if you don’t like artichokes, you have few vegetables or fruits apart from excellent citrus. that was an unhappy surprise.

Spent 10 days on a self-drive independent tour last April, using Rick’s tour itinerary to form the basis of ours. Wonderful, fantastic, loved it – only wish we had added about 4 more days to see a few things we didn’t have time for. And, yes, the driving was a bit of a challenge, but so worth it.

We just came home from the Best of Sicily in 11 Days tour and it was one of our favorites! It’s a beautiful exotic island with friendly people. On our tour we were invited into two Sicilian homes, one a working farm and one a vineyard, plus the home of a Count in Palermo. We went to the hilltop town of Erice for a fabulous buffet of Sicilian specialties and a cooking lesson. Highlights include the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Villa Romano del Casale, and our favorite town Cefalu…. for which we took an easy train ride by train from Palermo. Sicily’s multicultural mix never disappoints.

I have long said that Sicily is a hidden wonder. My wife and I have spent a couple of trips to the island and have enjoyed it immensely! One additional highly recommended travel site is Sardinia. If Sicily is great, then Sardinia is even greater…..much greater! We have spent two to three weeks in Sardinia and could go back again (probably will). I can’t recommend it too highly!

We spent 9 days in Sicily in April 2018 and had a fabulous time. We flew into Catania and rented a car, no problem at all driving though we didn’t go to Palermo. Highlights for us were: Valley of the Temples in Agrigento; Ortygia, the island that is part of Siracusa; amazing mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale; the Baroque hilltowns of Noto and Ragusa (terrific foodie scene in Ragusa, several Michelin starred restaurants), Taormina (touristy but exquisite, the only place we ran into other Americans), hiking in the Vendicari Nature Reserve and low-key and lovely Sampieri Beach. Wish we could have stayed longer but we’ll be back!

Hi, Sarah Murdoch! Our tour with you in northern Italy a couple years ago was fantastic. At that time you convinced my wife Lorry to visit Sicily and we did take Rick Steves Sicily tour. One site not mentioned in the article and comment section is the WW II Museum in Catania. It is only a few years old and is different than any museum I have ever seen. I would need a long article to tell all the wonderful multi media and displays. The start of the museum tour is a real mover and shaker.

Headed to Sicily with another tour company next month (August); we live in the desert of Arizona, so expect the heat will be tolerable — but not the humidity. But, Cameron’s blog makes it sound so worthwhile to be going —- & since we love artichokes & pasta & fish, it sounds as if we’ll be happy with the food. I’m a historian/archeologist — so will be in love with Sicily I’m sure. Thanks for all the good comments & the info — just hope our 2 weeks from Palermo to Catania will be enough time & that we old farts (in our 70’s) will survive!

Louise and I were introduced to Italy in 2015 on a off season My Way Tour. That was followed in the fall by the Best of Sicily Tour – off season also. We have since returned for extended stays….Christmas 2016 in Taormina for 28 days and Christmas 2017 for two weeks in Siricusa and two weeks in Taormina. Since Rick did not have a guide, we searched the net for apartments and had great success. We now have friends in London who own an apartment in Taormina and rent it to tourists. Living the daily life in Sicily is a delight. Slow down, enjoy the slower pace, but watch out for the cars, Sicilians drive like the devil is after them. Marion and Jim mentioned that they are old farts – so are we, in our 70’s. Not to worry, you just slow down and enjoy life at a slower pace – “La Dolce Vita.” There were 75 stairs from the Corso Umberto to the living room level in our Taormina apartment, you get used to it. Enjoy Sicily for a slice of what Italy was like 25 years ago. “Andiamo”……Lets Go!

Hi we are thinking of going to Sicily long term in the winter. Can you give us the name of the person who rents a home out in Taorima. Thanks Jane

Just back from a week in Sorrento and a week in southeast Sicily. Use Rick’s book for our Sorrento trip with side trips to Naples, Capri, Pompeii, and Amalfi Coast. Took the train from Naples to Catania (about 5 hrs with the train an a boat across the Straits of Messina) where we did side trips to Mt. Etna, Taormina, and Valley of the Temples. On the way back go to the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina for the most amazing 4th Century mosiacs in the world. Then trained to Siracusa with side trips to Noto, Ragusa, Modica, and Punta Secca. Pick a hotel in the Siracusa Ortigia for the great restaurants and night life. Go to Greek play if possible. Good connections out of Catania airport.

Good encyclopedic article. We went with RS to Sicily this February with the engaging, enthusiastic, funny Tomasso as our guide. We arrived in Palermo early and fit in a guided street food tour, which was great. Sicily is a wonderful land – spectacular views, a treasure trove of history – and the food is outstanding. I hope the coverage it is getting doesn’t make it get too crowded in the future. One turn-off for me was the litter and garbage, especially in Palermo. So, I was bemused when you commented Palermo has been prettied up – I can only imagine what it was like before!

We did the Sicily tour April 2018, great trip. If you need a bit of a nudge to make the decision to go there; check out my posted videos on YouTube of the trip to Sicily

Just type vito amorelli youtube Sicily..it’ll get ya there

We rented the apartment from Virginia Garufi who lives in London with her British born Italian husband John. Virginia is from the Taormina area and her Mom (Pina) will settle you into the apartment – she lives there. Virginia and John have a total of 5 apartments, our apartment is in the center of town and just 75 steps off the main street the Corso Umberto. The apartment is located on the Seleta Humboldt. If you look on Google maps, you can find it easily. Across the Seleta is Casa Niclode (great Eats!!!!!!) and about 5 steps up is the Internet Cafe (good pizza and wines, and my great pals). If you face the I Cafe, the apartment is immediately behind. You don’t need a car if you are going to stay in town, but if you are interested in one of the other apartments, you will need a vehicle. They are up the mountain about half way to Castlelmola. These apts have a great view of the Med and Etna, but so does the apt in town. Here is Virginias direct address so you don’t have to go through TripAdvisor. Don’t worry about doing a wire transfer with her, we have done two and they have gone flawlessly.

v dot garufi at hotmail dot it (the website is not allowing me to write addresses normally)

If you have further questions my address is mcgee dot mike at hotmail dot com

Please let Virginia know that Mike & Louise gave you the referral to her.

Happy Trails and Keep on Traveling Mike McGee

We spent almost a month in Ortigia. It was wonderful! We took side trips to Agrigento, Catania, Taormina, Ragusa, even the Lipari Islands for two days. It was beautiful! Loved it!

Loved the article. A friend and I are heading to Sicily & Malta late August. We’re renting a car in Catania & have planned a short loop through part of the country. I’m not looking forward to navigating the narrow streets, but time wise it should be more efficient to have our own wheels. We’ve booked 2 nights each in Agrigento, Chiaramonte Gulfi, Ortigia/Siracusa and Giarre. We’re hoping this will allow us enough time to visit a few of the small towns/sites surrounding each of our bases. We’re so looking forward to the delicious local cuisine, ancient ruins, stunning scenery, farms, vineyards, etc. I’ve explored quite a bit of Italy over the years, but never made it all the way down to Sicily. Can’t wait to fall in love with another incredible place. :-)

Just returned from three weeks in Malta and five in Sicily. You can get anywhere in Malta by local bus. Roads were not built for current volume of traffic. We too were based in Catania. Started off with a rental but gave it up after trying to contend with narrow streets, aggressive scooter drivers and difficulty finding places to park (double parking is a way of life for Sicilians). Travelled from place to place by train, then walked everywhere…better way to engage with locals.

Stationed for two years in Comiso with the Air Force. Great fun touring the island. Lots of ruins and great food. Sicily has a long history compared to the USA. Sometimes difficult to get it all in perspective. What am I looking at is it 200/400/600 years old. Could be all of that side by side.

Any way to get a copy of new Sicily book in January 2019 or sooner? Planning a visit there end of February and would really like to have Rick Steve’s recommendations before we leave. Thanks

Coincidentally, like the previous question, I am similarly asking if there is any way to get a copy of new Sicily book sooner than the scheduled release date which I believe is April 2019?

We are planning a trip there in early May and would love to be able to use Rick Steve’s recommendations since they’ve always proven to be so helpful with other travels we’ve made.

Thank you!!

Hi Robin (and Diane). Unfortunately, no advance copies will be available. Hopefully this post is a helpful starting point; you can also check out another post with more tips: https://blog.ricksteves.com/cameron/2018/09/sicily-road-trip/ Happy travels!

Great post! I’ve been to Sicily once and it’s a fantastic place! I’d like to go again because, for example, I haven’t seen Palermo. Also, it seems I missed some wine tasting :) After our trip to Sicily with my husband, we thought about making our own travel blog and it has just gone live. We have already posted about Sicily and Catania and there will be even more posts soon. I will really appreciate if you could evaluate what we wrote about Sicily :)

Unfortunately we were unable to wait for the April publication of Rick’s Sicily guide to use for planning our May ’19 DIY driving tour. But using our experience from following his guide books on a number of previous trips, we’ve made our own careful selections of overnight stays from Trapani, Agrigento, Siracusa, Piazza Armerina, Cefalu & back to Palermo. It was Rick’s earlier coverage on Sicily that helped us with choosing Sicily. We have high expectations of another adventurous, picturesque, experience. (We’re a couple of 75 & 80 yrs and ‘tho that may slow us down a bit, it won’t stop us from making the most of another travel experience.)

Just returned after spending the month of March in Sicily. Home base was Catania, but explored Messina, Syracusa, Palermo, Etna, Taormina and others, often by train. Loved the landscape of the interior. Coastline speaks for itself. Living in an apartment for the entire time, we were welcomed into the neighbourhood by local merchants who went out of their way to assist us with purchases. Wonderful experience.

We have been to Sicily twice. We took the advice of one of your tour guides I heard on the radio and went to Scopello. A beautiful place near the sea. We also went to a town I read about where a famous actor was from called Polizzi Generosa. A very grey place high in the mountains where it seems time has stopped. We stayed in a nunnery in Cefalu and were there when one of the nuns passed away. As I have said before, it’s so much more interesting not to always stick to the popular places, but venture out to the more remote areas. What surprised me most about Sicily was how green it was , and how many crops they grew.

My advice regarding the heat is that Sicily is also very humid. I wasn’t prepared with sufficiently breathable-fabric tops and skirts…only the thinnest cotton was comfortable for me.

We went on the Sicily trip 2 tears ago and it was truly the best trip we have taken to Europe. You have captured it all in your blog. March was a wonderful time to visit and loved the weather and lack of crowds. The Rick Steve’s tour was fantastic. My only disappointment was that Taramina was not on the itinerary for pre season. Hope to take another trip and see it in the future.

Leaving later this week for Sicily. Taking our mom back to her home town for her 80th birthday! Visiting family for four days, then will take an Airbnb in Acireale, north of Catania, as a home base for some day trips. Can anyone comment on the need for “full insurance” for our rental car? Is it truly necessary? If so, any idea of the cost?

Can anyone tell me the best travel places for Sicily..?

I have remember my trip and beautiful places for Sicily i really enjoy it.

Thanks for the Informative Post about Sicily.I will definitely travel to Sicily in future

Amazing Sicily travel tips.

such great tips for traveling thanks.

useful Sicily travel tips.

Really great resource and love to share with friends thanks for share…

Nice. Very well illustrated. I am having a vacation now in Siciliy with the rest of the family members. Discovering Sicily is super worth it. I even created and published an article about my trip to the Vulcano- Mud Baths: https://www.lifetimetraveller.com/thermal-and-sulphur-mud-baths-in-vulcano-sicily-with-lifetime-traveller/.

I hope you find that interesting too.

Good post. Thanks for sharing these great tips.

Beautiful place, I can’t wait this lockdown is over and that 2021 will be the end of co-vid19, so I can go back to travel to these kind places again.

The place is so beautiful. No less than heaven!

Good post i like that

Thanks for sharing information.

I am looking for the Private tour of Sicily who is trustworthy and affordable.

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Taormina travel blog — the ultimate taormina travel guide for first-timers.

Traveling to Sicily, Italy you should not to be missed to visit Taormina — an extremely famous seaside mountain town. I have visited Taormina for several times and always have had a pleasant time here. It can be said that this is one of the famous destinations in Europe in the summer. In this article, I will share all the experiences, travel tips of visiting Taormina for you refer to for your upcoming perfect trip. So, where to go, what to do in Taormina and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Taormina Italy (Taormina Sicily) for the first-time? Let’s check out our Taormina travel blog (Australia blog) with the fullest Taormina travel guide (Taormina guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do Taormina to find out the answer!

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Exploring Taormina, visitors cannot help but learn about the rich history of this ancient town, which is also home to important and precious archaeological remains in the ups and downs of the notorious land of Sicily.

Taormina travel blog: Overview of Taormina

Taormina is a hilltop town on the island of Sicily, Italy and is a charming complex of old towers and high-end shopping streets. Guests can explore Taormina by walking to enjoy the charming scenes, enjoy clear blue beach views. The island’s big highlight is a dilapidated old theater that experts have guessed has been around for more than 2,000 years.

Exploring Taormina, visitors can wander the narrow streets to looking for high-end designer goods or visit the Greek theater, which is said that Sophocle’s works were performed and is now used as a venue for fashion shows, concerts and movie screenings. In addition, visitors can also visit the medieval Duomo and several other churches or enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the two rocky bays of Taormina and Mount Etna — an Europe’s highest volcano that still active today.

Taormina travel blog: When should I visit Taormina?

Although located in the mountains, Taormina is famous for its calm and clear pebble beaches overlooking the beautiful island of Isola Bella (Italian means beautiful island). The best time to visit Taormina is summer. But there’s one big “but”: Tourists. Like any other beautiful seaside town of Sicily in particular and Italy in general, every summer Taormina will be packed with tourists. So, please prepare to be crowded with “millions” of other beach lovers when you visit Taormina.

The last time (updated 2021) when I came to Taormina was in the “Covid-19” season, so the number of visitors was moderate. But when I went to the beach, I also saw a lot of people. Bustling enough, but not deserted. So if possible, come to Taormina around June (before the peak tourist season begins, ie July and August) or September and October (when almost guests are left). You can rest assured that in Italy at these times, the weather is still hot, comfortable to swim.

Taormina travel guide: How to get to Taormina?

Getting from mainland Italy to Taormina is relatively easy. During the day, there also will be several train lines coming here from some big cities of Sicily. Besides, visitors can take a bus, ferry or plane. And no matter how you come here, you will feel like entering a completely different world.

The most convenient way to get to Taormina is by train or bus. The most convenient starting point is from Catania. If you take a train, you must note that the station is located at the foot of the mountain, near the sea, not in the village of Taormina itself. So, if you come to Taormina by train and want to getting to the town, you must take a transfer service. There is a bus from the station to the town center, starting at 6 am and the last one is 7 pm. If traveling with a large group of people, it is most convenient to take a taxi. Standard price is 15 euros/taxi. You should ask the host to call for you or call the hotel’s transfer service.

If you getting to Taormina by bus, the bus will go straight to town center, quite convenient. However, the number of buses from other places is quite limited.

Beaches in Taormina

It only takes about 30 minutes by foot or less than 5 minutes by cable car to reach the famous Isola Bella beach at the foot of the village. From afar, you can see the entire active volcano Etna amidst the majestic mountains. Throughout the village are colorful roads, nooks and crannies filled with fresh flowers, artistic relax sitting corners, bearing bold Italian style with typical Sicilian ceramic patterns.

Taormina beach is a ​​pebbles beach, located at the foot of the mountain, quite far from the village! There is a bus going directly from the village to the beach. Google Map suggests you can walk down, it takes 30 minutes, but don’t be greedy. I’ve tried walking before, it must have taken more than 30 minutes, the road to the beach was not even a shade of trees, very hot. So, absolutely should not walk. And don’t even think about walking backwards.

There is another equally convenient way is to take the cable car instead of by bus. Outside the village, next to the Messina gate, there will be a cable car (Funicular, with a detailed signboard, just follow it). Cable car station named Mazzarò Cable car. The two-way ticket is about 6 euros. Extremely convenient. The view along the way is also nice.

When the cable car goes down to the stop, you will see that there is a way to the beach in the opposite direction. But this is the beach of the lido (ie the private beaches are contracted by the restaurants. To access these places, you have to pay per person, not for a pair of chair and umbrella. Each visitor will be pay 18 euros. If you travel to Taormina in the peak tourist season, you should go to Lido to have a space, but other free beaches are definitely packed and you can’t turn around. Or you have to go very early to swim.

Taormina travel blog: Where to go, what to do in Taormina

Even though it’s a “tiny” town, but if you have time (and money) there are countless fun things to do. I will share some cool activities and things to do worth trying in Taormina!

Have an Italian breakfast at a local restaurant

From my experience, if you want to experience the real local life in Taormina, you should not to choose bars in the town center, which are mainly serving tourists. Let choose bars a bit far from the center and look a little casual. For example, this shop is located right at the beginning of the road leading to the Messina gate, where the locals especially like to come. Early in the morning, watching the elderly talk, sipping a cup of coffee while tasting a piece of cake is a great way to start a new day.

Go to the beach! Swimming, swimming, swimming!!

As I said above, Taormina is famous for its ravishing pebble beaches. It is impossible to visit Taormina without spending at least one session on its paradise-like calm water beach. Swimming experience in Taormina can be summarized up as follows:

• If you want to have a “seat” at the beautiful free beach right in front of Isola Bella island, plz go EARLY. 9am has already considered a bit late.
• You must bring an umbrella! The weather will be extremely hot.
• Bring food enough for picnic.
• If you don’t want to avoid crowded, pay to enter the lido beaches (where there are umbrellas). Note: In Taormina, Lido beach charge fee per person, not a pair of chair and umbrella like other places.

Is the beach in front of Isola Bella too crowded? Come to Letojanni

During my travel to Taormina with friends, I got off excess a station due to I didn’t notice. But it turned out to be one of those wonderful accidental mistakes. Right behind Taormina Giardini Naxos station is Letojanni station, exactly 6 minutes away by train. From Letojanni station to Letojanni’s long pebble beach is about 5 minutes on foot. This beach is very long, about two kilometers, beautiful pebbles, clear water, importantly, not very crowded, extremely suitable for relaxing and avoiding the hustle and bustle of Taormina. There are also bars for dining. But shortage of lido beaches. Coming here, you should prepare everything in advance for your convenience.

Strolling along the old street of Corso Umberto, admiring the lovely nooks and crannies of Taormina

Although Sicily has an abundance of stunning pebble beaches, one of the things that makes Taormina stand out is its lovely, vibrant old streets and lovely alleyways. Wherever you go, how many virtual living spots come there.

The main square of Piazza IX Aprile and beautiful sea view.

At the end of Corso Umberto street is one of Italy’s most beautiful squares: The Piazza IX Aprile. This square is unique not only because of its floor design with black and white squares checkered pattern and street with various style buildings, but also because of its amazingly beautiful view. From this square, you can see the blue sea as far as the eye can see.

You should come to this square in the afternoon to avoid the sun heating and enjoy it longer. Or come in early morning. It’s also quite bustling at night. Avoid noon because it’s very hot, it can be burnt your skin. The most beautiful time to come is around 5, 6 pm, go to the square to watching the sea and then choose a beautiful bar to drink aperitivo to prepare for a full dinner.

Villa Comunale Park

This lovely little park at the end of Corso Umberto is famous for its ancient ruins and breathtaking sea views. Inside the park, there is also an ancient Greek theater with a stunning view of the sea. Entering Villa Comune Park is free, but visiting the theater costs you 10 euros. I didn’t visit the theater, I just visit the garden. But that’s enough to relaxing and resting!

A 4-min walk from the Ancient Theatre of Taormina Address: Via Bagnoli Croci, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy Hours: 8AM–6PM

Reveal the secret

Due to the lack of time, I did not have time to do anything more. However, there are two other activities that are extremely interesting if you stay in Taormina longer. That is going up Castelmola — a small village higher than Taormina with the best view. From the bus station right in the center of Taormina, there is an interbus that runs directly to Castelmola.

Another day trip I was looking forward to (but the last day it rained, so I had to stay at home), that is going to Alcantara. This is a small gorge where the locals love to bathe and climb in the summer to cool off. Interbus has a route here. Although I really want to, I haven’t come yet, so I can’t share my experience. You can visit this thread or @Vagabonda (an Italian travel expert on Tripadvisor) to ask for more information! If you have a chance to visit, remember to share with me!

Taormina blog: What to eat?

Enjoy a delicious seafood meal.

Taormina is for tourists, of course there are countless restaurants, the quality is not the same. However, there are two worthy places to eat I would like to share.

Licchio’s bar

This is not really a restaurant, but a cafe, also serving food. This restaurant is open all day. Early in the morning this is a gathering place for local elderly people. They serve lunch and dinner. The location of the shop is right at the beginning of the busiest street of Taormina, opposite Catherine Church. During the tourist season it will definitely be crowded. The best time to come is when avoid the time when tourists come. This restaurant has a very good atmosphere, warm service and the food is much and delicious (order slowly, the serving is huge). The shop’s specialty is Italian Shrimp with Pistachio Sauce (Ravioli di gamberi con la salsa di pistacchio). The main course is fish wrapped in pistachio. Score close to 10 for quality.

Address: Largo Santa Caterina, 7, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy Phone: +39 0942 625607

In addition, our host strongly recommends Tiramisu restaurant. She said it was one of the few favorite restaurants of the locals. Since we are students with shortages of money, we only tried at Licchio’s. But before the guarantee of the host, this is also an option worth considering. Remember to reserve a table.

Note: There are two Tiramisu shops in Taormina, and the one you should go to is the Trattoria Tiramisu , not the Ristorante!

Address: Viale Apollo Arcageta, 9, 98039 Taormina ME, Italy Hours: 1–2:30PM, 7–10:30PM/Monday: Closed

Taormina travel blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Villa Belvedere ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Mazzaro Sea Palace – VRetreats ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Villa Ducale ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Villa Carlotta ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• UNAHOTELS Capotaormina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Taormina is a great summer destination in Sicily. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great value vacation! Don’t forget to share with me!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Sicily you can refer to

• Catania: Mount Etna Day Trip with Tasting and Cave Trip
• Etna: Summit Craters Trekking
• Lipari and Vulcano: Day Trip from Milazzo
• Mount Etna Summit and Crater Trek
• From Tropea: Day Tour to the Aeolian Islands
• Palermo 3-Hour Street Food and History Walking Tour
• Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Jeep Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Sicily: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Italy travel guide here .

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The Local’s Guide to Authentic Sicily

There are many wonderful places to visit in Italy, and one of the jewels in the crown is the beautiful little island at the tip of Italy’s famous boot. Renting one of our luxury villas in Sicily  means you’ll have the whole island to explore – but how do you know you’re experiencing the very best of it? We had a think and the answer’s pretty obvious – why not ask a local expert?

This week we spoke to Sebastian, who’s been working as a tour and excursion guide in Sicily for the last few years. Here’s what he recommends – truly a local’s guide to Sicily!

Mamma Caura Restaurant – Sicily, Italy

Visiting this land of myth and history can easily have a profound effect on travellers! Sicily is overflowing with history, nature and traditions. As the great German poet and playwright Goethe said, “Italy without Sicily leaves no image in the soul: here is the key to everything.”

Taormina Messi – Sicily, Italy

The region can constantly surprise visitors with its idyllic scenery , full of charm and furrowed by mountains and hills that meet the blue and crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea, overflowing with unique and intense aromas and flavours. The landscape is also enriched by precious archaeological remains that narrate the ancient origins of Trinacria (the Roman name for Sicily) – a form of art that has been forged over the centuries.

I always say that one visit to Sicily is never enough. This beautiful land enters into the hearts of people thanks to the warmth that is not only in the weather, but also the smiles of the people who live here. It’s hard to overlook the gastronomic and relaxation factor too: when talking about Sicily, you have to mention arancini, cannoli and cassata as well as granita, sun and the sea!

The beauty of Sicily…

The first thing to do when you arrive in Sicily after you have laid down your bags is to just go out and immerse yourself in the streets of the country or city and come into contact with as much history as possible, and savour some typical Sicilian dishes!

The Sicily you shouldn’t miss:

– Mount Etna An active volcano and the beating heart of Sicily!

–  The Valley of the Temples  Immersed by olive trees, almond trees, citrus groves and vineyards that stretch down to the sea, The Valley of the Temples is a huge site featuring elegant ancient monuments that evoke the atmosphere of 2,500 years ago, when the ancient Akagras Agrigentum was a centre of Greek power and culture.

The Valley of the Temples, Sicily

– Palermo Capital of Sicily and full of charm thanks to its Moorish palaces, Byzantine castles, Renaissance and Baroque mansions. A real crossroads of past civilizations!

– The Aeolian Archipelago Composed of seven islands that were historically connected to the volcanoes (the “artists” who created these beautiful works of nature!) Here you can dive into the deep blue sea, go hiking in the caves scattered along the coasts, relax in small beaches lapped by crystal clear waters and taste the excellent local seafood!

– Syracuse A metropolis of the ancient world and the city of Archimedes, it overlooks a picturesque natural harbour closed to the east from the island of Ortigia. Almost every corner of Syracuse offers valuable archaeological remains that recall the splendour of Ancient Greece.

The Greek Theatre in Syracuse, Sicily

– The Val di Noto and the Iblean Lands Where you can visit the beautiful late Baroque cities of Noto, Ragusa, Modica and Scicli.

– Taormina An international tourist centre with picturesque beaches and stunning views of the Ionian Sea, as well as its impressive Greek amphitheatre – one of the most important ancient ruins in Sicily.

Inland restaurants prefer vegetables, cheeses, eggs and meat, and how can I not mention Palermo, where you can find the famous arancini, cannoli and cassata, or the couscous in Trapani?

Delicious Seafood Pasta, Italy

In your free time, you can choose to go to shopping in the city and buy many souvenirs related to the multiple traditions and history of Sicily or relax for a day on the beach. Sicily is an ideal region for families and groups of friends of all ages. Families can relax by spending their days among the countless clean beaches, diving in the crystal waters of the sea or opting for a water park (Arethusa Park or Etnaland are both very good). There are numerous beaches with facilities for families and much more.

If instead you would like to spend a holiday enjoying culture and nature , you can choose between the various national parks (in particular the huge Nebrodi Regional Park) or between a wealth of museums and historical and archaeological sites including the Museum of Aidone, the Valley of the Temples, Selinunte, the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, Neapolis and Greek Theatre of Syracuse, the Necropolis of Pantalica and the Regional Museum of Ceramics in Caltagirone.

Stunning beach – Sicily

Sicily Day Trips Ideas

There are also a number of activities and excursions we can offer in order to make the best of your available holiday time!

• Fishing tours around the islands of Correnti or Capo Passero
• “Mother and Daughter,” which explores the charms of Syracuse and Noto
• Caltagirone and the Venus of Mosaics, which is great for fans of ancient art!
• Hyblaean Sunset, which takes in the beautiful colours of Ragusa and Modica
• Witnessing an Etna summer sunset

Etna Summer Sunset, Sicily

• The Valley of Wines, Agrigento and its surroundings
• The Grape Harvest, where you can experience the “rituals” for the production of wine on an historic farm

If you fancy making the most of Sicily’s finest sights, sounds and experiences and accompanying Sebastian on one of his tours, you can check out what’s on offer at his website, Viaggia in Sicilia . If however, you’re looking for amazing accommodation and luxury villas in Sicily , get in contact with our Concierge team for more information about availability!

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