trips to italy and sicily

Sicily Tours & Trips

• Choose from 200+ Sicily tours
• 1,900+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Sicily tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Sicily travel expert at TourRadar

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

Small group sicily food & wine tour (maximum 8 guests), sicilian secrets - tour of sicily 8 days, sicilian secrets - tour of sicily 10 days from palermo, best of sicily - 8 days (small group tour), sicilian landscapes: catania-catania (8 days/7 nights), magical sicily - 7 days, splendor of sicily 8 days tour - from catania, new tour of sicily from palermo 10 days, absolute sicily: palermo - palermo (10 days/9 nights).

“The local knowledge was excellent and I learned a lot about the Country. The hotels were well chosen.” Jan Lee, traveled in May 2024

• Sightseeing
• Be accompanied by local guides who know it best and know Sicily secrets
• Experience Sicily though its incredible gastronomy, wines, art and music
• Get a full immersion that's rich in history, traditions and culture of the island

“The accommodations were terrific. The food was excellent and abundant.” James Burruano, traveled in April 2024

• Food & Culinary
• Wine tasting
• Taste the best Sicilian wines and learn the secrets of how it is produced
• Delve into culture and learn cooking tricks in typical Sicilian family trattoria
• Discover the very best of Sicily through its rich cuisine and colourful street food

“Managed to fit in a lot over the 6 days.” Vivien Gibbings, traveled in June 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Taste award-winning Modica chocolate
• Explore the Greek Theatre in Syracuse
• Visit the majestic Norman Cathedral in Monreale

“The hotel in Agrigento was amazing. Irene was amazing - such a lovely human being.” Gregory Middleton, traveled in August 2023

• Explore Monreale's Norman Cathedral
• Tour Marsala's historic wine cellars
• Taste local delicacies in Modica

“All planned events were interesting and there was a good balance between planned activities and free time.” Chrystal Hayman, traveled in April 2023

• Discover Godfather film locations in Savoca
• Explore Taormina on a food and wine tour
• Stroll through Noto and taste Modica chocolate

“Sicily is a stunning island holding new surprises around every corner and this round trip allowed us to see so much of its great beauty in a very comfortable way.” Sabine Bittner, traveled in September 2019

• Discover baroque treasures in Modica
• Visit the impressive Arab-Norman Cathedral in Monreale
• Explore Catania's historic city center

“I enjoyed all of our tours.” Lael Kilpatrick, traveled in April 2023

• Explore the Cathedral of Monreale
• Taste Marsala wine in a traditional tavern
• Stroll through Palermo's historic streets

“We saw a lot of amazing and beautiful places in Sicily, some with local guides, ate a lot of delicious food and were entertained.” Jen Humphries, traveled in May 2023

• Discover the breathtaking sights of the beautiful Siracusa
• Go sightseeing in Catania and stroll the streets of Cefalu
• Admire the remarkable Martorana Cathedral in Palermo

“Excellent tour, very well organised. Nice and clean accommodations.” Betty Carswell, traveled in April 2024

• Enjoy dinner and a wine tasting in Marsala
• Marvel at Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe
• See the incredible mosaics in Piazza Armerina

“Some of the hotels left something to be desired while others were fantastic!” Lynn Georgeff, traveled in September 2019

• Explore Monreale's Arab-Norman Cathedral
• Visit Etna and taste local honey
• Tour the ancient Valley of the Temples

More about Sicily

Discover TourRadar

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate

Things to Do in Sicily

• Things to Do in Palermo
• Best Beaches
• Things to Do Near Mt. Etna
• Guide to Valley of the Temples
• Food to Try
• Best Wineries

The island of Sicily is best known as the home of Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. However, it's also famous for its well-preserved Greek and Roman archaeological sites, Baroque architecture, vibrant cities, wild Mediterranean beaches, fascinating mix of cultures, and diverse cuisine. While many visitors to Italy tack on a few days in Sicily as part of a larger vacation, there's more than enough to see on this 9,653-square-mile (25,000-square-kilometer) island to merit a longer visit. Or even making Sicily the main focus of your Italy vacation. Read on for your complete planning guide to the largest island in the Mediterranean.

Planning Your Trip to Sicily

Best Time to Visit:  When you decide to visit Sicily depends on what you want to do while you're there. If it's beaches you seek, July and August are peak season, though you can also sun and swim in June and into early September, when it's less hot and crowded. Otherwise, late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit Sicily for mild temperatures and thinner crowds.

Language:  Italian is the primary language spoken in Sicily, though it's heavily influenced by regional dialects. Italian spoken here incorporates words and pronunciations from Sicilian, the native language of the island. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and stores in touristy cities and towns, but is less common in rural and inland areas.

Currency:  As with the rest of Italy, Sicily uses the euro. Other currencies are not accepted. Credit cards are widely accepted, though some merchants may prefer cash for smaller purchases. American Express is not as widely accepted in Italy as it is in the U.S., so be sure to have a backup card or cash at the ready.

Getting Around in Sicily:  Sicily is covered by a network of train and bus lines that reach most parts of the island. Trenitalia , Italy's national rail company, offers service between Sicily's major cities, secondary cities, and some smaller towns. However, it's worth noting that connections to smaller destinations can be infrequent and involve long wait times.

Buses also connect smaller coastal and interior towns, but service is sporadic and schedules are often complicated to figure out. Ferries not only connect Sicily to the mainland but also to the Aeolian and Aegadian islands, as well as the Pelagic islands of Lampedusa, Pantelleria, and Linosa. Ferries run more frequently in the summer months.

Many travelers to Sicily opt to rent a car in order to visit the interior and move about more freely without worrying about train or bus schedules and wait times.

Travel Tip:  Unless you have a week or more to spend in Sicily, we recommend basing yourself in one section of the island and exploring just area. There are more than 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) of coastline in Sicily and there are only a few direct roads or train routes that cut through the island's center. This means that it can be very time-consuming to visit more than one region in a short trip. Save the rest of the island for when you have more time to enjoy it.

There are a lot of reasons to visit Sicily. Primary among them are historic cities, ancient archaeological sites, beaches, and nature—especially around Mount Etna. Here's a closer look at some of the highlights:

• Historic Cities: Palermo is Sicily's capital city , and offers Arab and Norman history alongside bustling markets overflowing with street food. The city Catania has Greek and Roman ruins and a Baroque center while the cities of the Val di Noto are known for their Sicilian Baroque architecture. Syracuse, Taormina, Trapani, and Cefalu are seaside cities and some beautiful beaches as well as notable ancient ruins.
• Ancient Archaeology: The Valley of the Temples at Agrigento is one of the world's best-preserved Greek archaeological sites. Other important sites are located in Selinunte, Segesta, Taormina, Syracuse/Ortigia, and Messina. The stunning Villa Romana del Casale at Piazza Armerina preserves the remains of a vast Roman villa decorated with spectacular mosaics.
• Beaches: The sand on Sicily's beaches ranges from black and volcanic to sugary and white, to no sand at all. (There are many beaches are formed of smooth pebbles that are hard on naked feet, so tread carefully!). While the sands vary widely, what all the beaches share is incredibly blue, clear seawater that's perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Look to Taormina, Trapani, San Vito Lo Capo and Cefalu, and the southeastern coast for . Sicily's islands offer dramatic, rocky coastlines interrupted by sandy coves or wide, crescent-shaped beaches.
• Nature: Mount Etna is the geological star of Sicily and for many visitors, a hike or jeep ride on the active volcano is a must-do experience. To the northwest, the Zingaro Nature Reserve offers unspoiled coastline and Mediterranean woods and scrubs, plus some of Sicily's best beaches. The Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans Nature Reserve is a World Wildlife Foundation reserve for migrating birds.

Get more ideas for your trip itinerary with our articles on the top things to do in Sicily , the best beaches in Sicily , and the top things to do around Mount Etna

What to Eat and Drink

Throughout the millennia, Sicily has been influenced by cultures from across the Mediterranean. Those influences are still felt today in its cuisine, which is a mix of Italian, North African, Arab, and Spanish cuisine—much of it based on the bounty of the sea. Fried street food is big in Sicilian cities and can be found at one of the many markets. In coastal restaurants, heaping mounds of couscous or pasta studded with seafood appear on menus. Meanwhile, eggplant-based caponata and eggplant parmesan are staples further inland. Desserts range from light, refreshing granitas to sweet, dense favorites like cannoli and cassata.

Sicilian wine, once dismissed as regional swill, enjoyed a rebirth starting several decades ago, and the island is now home to many noteworthy varietals. Many wineries are clustered in the mineral-rich soils on the slopes of Mount Etna, from where Etna Bianco and Etna Rosso wines originate. Red Nero d'Avola grapes produce hearty table wines, while Marsala, passito, and moscato are enduring dessert wines. Learn more about the best wineries in Sicily , the best foods to try in Sicily with our longer articles.

Where to Stay in Sicily

Across Sicily, accommodation options run the gamut, from luxurious five-star hotels to functional three-star beachfront properties that don't have to try very hard to sell out their rooms. There are campgrounds, glamping options, and cottage rentals near the shore. Inland, agriturismos offer farmstays that range from rustic to deluxe, and that usually feature food grown on-property. You'll also find "vacation villages" in Sicily, Usually near a popular beach, these are large compounds that offer accommodations, restaurants, pools, and activities. Many offer all-inclusive services but book early if you want to stay in one during the peak summer season.

Wherever you stay in Sicily, if you're there from May to October, take our advice and book a room with air-conditioning. Summer temperatures are sweltering, and air conditioning isn't always a given.

Read more about your lodging options with our guide to the best hotels in Sicily.

Getting There

Sicily can be reached via airplane or ferry. Its major airports are at Catania and Palermo, with smaller airports at Trapani and Comiso. Frequent ferries make the quick trip across the Strait of Messina from Villa San Giovanni on the mainland to Messina. Other mainland ports include Rome-Civitavecchia, Naples, Salerno, Reggio-Calabria and, more seasonally, Livorno and Genoa. Note that not all ferries accept vehicles, so check ahead if you plan to bring a rental car onto the island.

Trains from the mainland also arrive at Messina and continue on to Palermo, Catania, and Siracusa, with stops along the way. Note that if you book a through-train from the mainland, the train cars will be loaded onto a ferry at Messina for crossing the Strait of Messina.

Culture and Customs of Sicily 

Visitors to Sicily may find the population more reserved and conservative compared to mainland Italy, especially once you're out of large cities. Despite this, greeting Sicilians with a friendly "buongiorno" will go a long way toward breaking the ice.

Here are some other Sicilian cultural norms to keep in mind:

• Sicily is more religious than mainland Italy and religious holidays and festivals are piously observed.
• Dress modestly to enter churches anywhere in Sicily. This means that legs should be covered above the knee and shoulders should be covered either by a scarf or a sleeved shirt. Men are also advised to remove any hats.
• Don't be in a rush at lunchtime or dinner. Things move more slowly here, so just kick back and enjoy the languid pace. If you're in a hurry at mealtime, buy street food.
• The Sicilian Mafia is still very much a presence here, though tourists are not likely to notice or be affected by it. Still, it's better not to try to initiate a discussion with locals about the Mafia, even in jest.

Money Saving Tips

A lot of money-saving tips for Italy are also true for Sicily. These include:

• Travel in the off-season: The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are cheaper than the peak summer season. If you can forego warm weather and don't mind a little rain, winter is the cheapest time to visit Sicily.
• Eat street food: Not only is it authentic and delicious, but Sicily's street food, including pizza, arancini (stuffed, deep-fried rice balls), and all sorts of sandwiches are some of the best bargains in the land.
• Do the free stuff: Some of the best sightseeing in Sicily doesn't cost a thing. It's free to sit in a piazza and people watch, walk along seafront promenades, and poke around at colorful local markets. State museums are free to all on the first Sunday of each month.

Encyclopedia Britannica. " Sicily. "

Encyclopedia Britannica. " Palermo ."

BBC. " Viewpoint: Why Sicilians still turn to Mafia to settle scores. " June 6, 2021.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Prices below are per person based on double occupancy and include airline taxes, surcharges and fees of $0, which are subject to change until final payment is made. All tour prices (excluding airline taxes, surcharges, and fees) are guaranteed.

Departure Selected

Special event, please note, guest 1 details, guest 2 details, trip details, additional options, guest information.

Southern Italy & Sicily

With apulia & the amalfi coast.

Delight in a special exploration of Italy’s southern climes, from striking Sicily and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to unheralded Apulia, the alluring “boot heel” where a vivid history, unique architecture, and bountiful plains join the sun and sea in creating a prized (and crowd-free) region.  Add Italian hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and notable lodgings for la dolce vita , small-group style.

Tour Details

From $5,074

Small Group Highlights

• Sicily’s intriguing cultural and historic heritage
• “Valley of the Temples,” Agrigento
• Mt. Etna excursion
• Lunch at a working Sicilian farmhouse
• Two Apulia UNESCO sites: cave dwellings of Matera and Alberobello’s medieval white-washed buildings
• Neapolitan cooking demonstration and dinner
• Lecce, the “Florence of the South”
• Fascinating, uncrowded Apulia region
• Stunning Amalfi Coast
• Tour of ancient ruins at Pompeii (UNESCO site)
• Day trip to Isle of Capri
• Unique, well-located, small-group style hotels
• Pleasing mix of touring and time at leisure

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Please note: We use a variety of distinctive hotels in Lecce, as listed below. For specific accommodations per departure date, click on the Reservation Request button in the Dates & Prices section below or call for more information.

Built on the slope of a bluff, the Eurostars Monte Tauro cascades down the hillside at the edge of Taormina’s town center, just a short walk from many shops and restaurants.  The hotel enjoys an unspoiled view across the sparkling Ionian Sea, with amenities that include a restaurant and bar overlooking the water, outdoor swimming pool with water views, terrace, and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access.  Air-conditioned guest rooms boast a private balcony overlooking the water, as well as private bath with hair dryer, minibar, in-room safe, TV, and phone.  Please note: Due to the unique nature of Taormina, a short uphill/downhill walk is required to reach the main pedestrian street.

The 40-room Locanda di San Martino offers guests the rare opportunity to stay in cave dwellings created thousands of years ago – but updated with contemporary comforts and modern amenities. Rock-hewn passageways, external staircases, and elevators connect all four levels of the hotel.  The focus of our stay is the unique experience the hotel can offer in an area famous for this type of dwelling.  While your room is clean and comfortable, it will not be as luxurious as hotels on other parts of your tour.  Fresh local food is brought to the hotel for each meal because the hotel does not have a kitchen.  Locanda di San Martino is in the heart of Matera’s “ Sassi ” Historical District, very close to the city center.  The hotel has a bar and breakfast room, spa with massage and thermal/chromotherapy services (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access.  Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer and TV.  Please note: Because of the historical nature of the hotel, room sizes and views vary, and you must pay attention to the stairs around the hotel and within your room.

The 18-room Chiostro dei Domenicani is set within a 15th-century Dominican convent. The cultural and historical Italian charm remains today, with original Lecce stone structures, Doric-style columns, and detailed frescoes throughout. Along with spacious common areas and large, comfortable rooms, the hotel offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, restaurant, wine bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Air-conditioned guest rooms preserve the characteristic structure of the former convent with tasteful yet simple décor, and include private bath with hair dryer, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

This 19 th -century mansion was once a private residence and today operates as a 41-room hotel that blends historical charm with modern comforts.  Located inside the historic city center, Risorgimento Resort is just steps away from some of Lecce’s most iconic sites, such as the Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta and Sant’Oronzo, Piazza sant’Oronzo, and the Roman Amphitheatre.  Hotel amenities include a restaurant, lounge bar, rooftop garden terrace with views of the bell tower of the Duomo, spa with massage services (for a fee), laundry service (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access.  Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, minibar, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

This historic hotel sits in the heart of Sorrento on Piazza Tasso, the main square, close to shops and restaurants.  Amenities of the intimate 46-room Hotel Antiche Mura include a lobby bar, snack bar, outdoor swimming pool, solarium, terraces, lovely gardens with a citrus grove (which supplies all of the oranges and lemons used by the hotel), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access.  Art nouveau-style guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, minibar, TV, and phone.  Air conditioning is available from May through October; heat is available from November through April.

Tour Price Includes

• Round-trip air transportation from listed cities
• 13 nights’ accommodations in Superior First Class and First Class hotels
• 26 meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 8 dinners
• Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
• Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
• Private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
• Luggage handling for one bag per person
• Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
• $100 frequent traveler credit towards your next Odysseys Unlimited tour ($200 after 3 tours; $300 after 10 tours)

Average Daily High by Month (°F )

Average temperature (°f ), dates & prices.

Airline upgrades (subject to availability; pricing subject to change) on round-trip Trans-Atlantic flight: Business Class – $3,795 per person in 2024; $3,995 per person in 2025. Premium Economy – $1,595 per person in 2024; $1,795 per person in 2025

Apologies, we were unable to retrieve the latest tour information at this time.

Regrettably, we do not currently have any available departure dates for this tour.

Please wait while we retrieve this information.

Post-Tour Extension

Rome – On Your Own

Explore the Eternal City at your leisure.

Post-Tour Extension Price Includes

• Private transportation Sorrento/Rome
• 3 nights’ accommodations at Monti Palace Hotel (Superior First Class)
• 3 meals: 3 breakfasts
• Transfer to airport

Pricing: $795 in 2024; $695 in 2025. Single Supplement: $295 in 2024; $245 in 2025

Accommodations

Sitting just a 10-minute walk from Rome’s famed Colosseum, the Monti Palace Hotel occupies a 19 th -century building in the heart of the Eternal City.  Amenities of this stylish and contemporary 55-room hotel include a rooftop bar with terrace overlooking the city, library bar and lounge, fitness center, laundry service (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access.  Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, minibar (for a fee), tea- and coffee-making facilities, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

Tour Directors

“Osh [was amazing]…He has a wonderful personality, and helped [the group] bond as a unit. We loved him also.”

Bonnie & Douglas Herr Williamstown, MA

“Maurizio is a treasure. What a fabulous tour director he is. His knowledge, stories, and wonderful personality made this tour even better. I could feel his love of Italy, his love for people and his love for his job. He is doing exactly what he is meant to do.”

Carol Kut Chepachet, RI

“Her knowledge was amazing, she was fun to be with, and built a real community among the travelers. You knew that each of us was the most important person in her life for those 14 days.”

Thomas & Mary Heyman Montclair, NJ

"Nobody has ever worked harder to please the clients and be sure everyone received what they needed. She went above and beyond what is expected of a tour director daily. Thank you Chiara!"

Stephen Chiara & Judy DeLucia Venice, FL

"Ingrid’s warmth, courtesy, professionalism, and genuine concern made her an absolute pleasure to travel with. With infinite patience and gentle humor, she shared her knowledge and enthusiasm and made our travel stress-free."

Michael & Colleen Thompson The Woodlands, TX

“He did his homework and personally knew the other staff people on the ground.”

Cecilia & Francis Kelly Hartford, NC

“Andrea is a gem (diamond). His knowledge, enthusiasm, caring, and competence cannot be overstated. He’s an exceptional leader.”

Nancy Munno Montpelier, VT

“Katia was hands down the best tour director we have ever had! She was sweet, funny, intelligent, efficient, knowledgeable, and really went way beyond what she had to do…we loved her!”

Jim & Sue Sanders Plainwell, MI

“We could not have had a better tour director. Her information about olives, local fare, gelato, and the region was truly an asset to the trip… She is a real treasure!”

Kay & Sherman English Seattle, WA

“You are fortunate to have Sara on your staff. She is the greatest! Her energy, dedication, and professionalism are beyond anything we have seen.”

William Garro Boonton, NJ

Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director

"On this, our 11 th Odysseys tour, we encountered a tour director who exceeded the high standards set elsewhere. Giulia was pure joy: warm, welcoming, with a great sense of humor."

Roger & Donna Authers Charlottesville, VA

“Anna was THE BEST! Unfailingly patient, friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, warm, and a joy to be around. I cannot list enough positive descriptions for her. She is a gem!”

Henry & Susan Fradkin Dearborn, MI

"Arianna went way above her duties as a tour director. She was very knowledgeable, friendly, patient, [and] helpful."

Kathryn Barton Rochester, NY

"An excellent combination of steel and velvet: firm grasp on all logistics…combined with a caring attitude for each member of the group."

Stephen Rose & Patricia Midgette Virginia Beach, VA

“Best tour director ever! She went way above and beyond expectation.”

John & Jane Pratt Newbury, NH

"Filippo went above and beyond to provide additional assistance/advice to our tour group."

Lydia-Marie & Patrick Walsh Oakton, VA

“[Gaetano] was not only knowledgeable and efficient, but had a great personality and was very funny. The stories he told about his personal experiences greatly enhanced the overall tour. He was one of [the] best we have had.”

Steven & Royce Menkus Sherman Oaks, CA

“She was wonderful!”

Layton & Marsha Carr

“Marina was outstanding. She was alert to individual needs and extremely helpful throughout the trip.”

John & Arleen Cooper Arvada, CO

Destination Insights

Recommended books & films, guest photos & testimonials.

Share this Tour

Or share with page link

Physical Activity Level

• Walk 2-4 miles per day, often on uneven terrain or cobblestones
• Occasional long walks from motorcoach drop-off to sights and hotels
• Uneven natural terrain at Mt. Etna and at Agrigento and Pompeii archaeological sites
• Steep grades while walking in Taormina
• Many stairs of varying height throughout the tour
• Embarkation/disembarkation from multiple boats
• Several long days of travel via motorcoach
• Locanda di San Martino hotel (Matera) does not have an elevator that has access to each floor

Destinations

Quick links, connect with us.

Share your great adventures with us on social media. Tag your pictures with #myodyssey and they may be featured on our website!

By using this website you are agreeing to our Cookie Policy .

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

A region and destination all of its own, planning the perfect Sicily itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming at first glance. With so much to offer, figuring out how to spend 7 to 10 days in Sicily is a bit of a daunting task when you’re trying to fit in everything there is to see. With electric cities, beautiful beaches, ancient ruins and charming towns, Sicily is one of the most dynamic places to visit in all of Italy.

Whether you’re visiting Sicily as a stand-alone destination or it’s part of a longer trip to Italy, there is so much to see and do on the Mediterranean’s largest island that it certainly deserves its own itinerary. So if you’re wondering what to see and do in this Southern Italian region, follow this itinerary to plan out your ideal route across this inimitable island.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sicily?

If you want to see the highlights of the island, have time to explore the two largest cities and see some surrounding places, then plan to spend at least 7 days in Sicily.

With a week in Sicily, you’ll be able to spend a proper amount of time in the two main cities (which means you don’t need to choose between Catania vs Palermo ) along with exploring some smaller towns (like Taormina and Cefalu) and seeing some incredible sites like the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento.

If you want to get quite a holistic view of the island, then spending 10 days is going to be your best bet. You’ll have more time to explore some lessor visited parts of Western Sicily.

Even if you plan 10 days, you’re still not going to be able to get to all of the top spots the island has to offer, so if you have 2 weeks or more, this could be ideal — especially if you want to circumnavigate the island.

Getting To & Around Sicily

Though it is an island, Sicily is well-connected to the rest of Italy and to the majority of Europe. It is home to three international airports and has extensive train and ferry connections depending on where you’re coming from.

If you’re planning a stand-alone Sicily trip, it’s likely that you’re going to be flying into the island. There are three international airports on the island that vary in the level of traffic.

The busiest and highest-traffic airport (and where you will most likely be flying into) is Catania Airport located just outside of Sicily’s second-largest city. This airport has countless connections to many different destinations across Europe and beyond.

The Sicilian capital of Palermo also has its own airport with quite a few connections across Europe, so that is another viable option when it comes to arriving in Sicily.

There is also a small airport outside of Trapani, as well, that mostly serves destinations in Italy along with a handful of other European destinations.

Sicily is also accessible via train, which is a great option if you’re tacking on a trip here to an extended time in Italy. It can be a great idea to visit Sicily after, say enjoying some time exploring Puglia or wandering around the Amalfi Coast . There are direct trains to Sicily from cities like Rome and Naples to most major hubs on the island. You can view schedules here.

The island is also accessible via ferry from several neighbouring ports. For instance, if you want to visit Sicily before or after exploring the lovely nation of Malta , you can enjoy direct ferry connections (you can view schedules here ).

Once in Sicily, you have a few options when it comes to getting around. You can easily get around here on foot when you’re exploring the major cities. In fact, even if you want to – for instance – go on a day trip to Taormina from Catania , it is easy to do this via bus or train.

Train connections between the major cities and towns are extensive and affordable, so this can be a good option if you’re happy to stick to city centres/ However, in order to do this particular route, it’s highly recommended to hire a car and plan a Sicily road trip!

With your own car in Sicily, you will have the flexibility to make stops along the way between destinations and the ability to explore more of the island with far more ease.

Driving in Sicily definitely has a negative reputation, however, I didn’t find it as bad as I had built it up in my head (particularly on the highways, where driving was easy) so long as you keep aware and drive defensively.

If you want to rent a car for a Sicily road trip, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to find deals across a range of major rental car companies.

7 to 10 Day Sicily Itinerary

If you only have 7 days in Sicily, make sure to read the entry under day 7 carefully in order to properly plan out your Sicily trip.

This route is done easiest with a car, however, it isn’t entirely necessary to rent a car for the first couple of days in Catania, especially as most of the day trip options are easily accessible via public transport.

Day 1 – Catania

The easiest place to start any trip to Sicily is in the island’s second-largest city of Catania . Home to the highest-traffic airport in the region, this city is a logical jumping-off point to exploring the splendours of this beautiful island.

Catania can often be overlooked in lieu of Palermo or more picturesque Sicilian destinations, however, it is absolutely worth visiting this lively metropolis.

Spend your first day in Catania exploring the highlights of the city centre including the Piazza Duomo, the epic fish market and taking in the views of the city and Mount Etna from the Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata. You can book a walking tour here.

End your day with a leisurely aperitivo in one of Catania’s lively bars and get some delicious street food (or dine in one of the city’s top restaurants!) for dinner.

Where to Stay in Catania

Hotel Centrum – For those travelling on a mid-range budget, this hotel is a great choice. Centrally located behind the Teatro Bellini, it is within easy reach of the top sites in Catania. They have great rooms available and offer breakfast each morning.

Liberty Hotel – This luxury hotel is a great high-end choice in Catania. They have plush rooms on offer, a buffet breakfast each morning, an airport shuttle available and a perfect location for exploring the highlights of the city.

La Dimora del Barbiere – If you’d like to have your own flat during your time in Catania, then this is a great place to choose. There are a range of flats to choose from (varying in size) and an excellent location for exploring Sicily’s second-largest city.

The Yard Hostel – For budget and solo travellers, this hostel is a perfect choice. They have a great, central location, offer both dorm and private rooms and have several great common areas that make socialising easy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Catania!

Day 2 – Taormina, Mt Etna or Siracusa

Day two of your Sicily itinerary should be dedicated to taking a day trip from Catania and exploring more of Eastern Sicily. One of the most popular places is the town of Taormina, which is known for its ancient Greek theatre and beautiful coastline surrounding it.

It’s also a popular option to take a trip to Mount Etna, whether it be to take the cable car and hike around the craters or to sip wines grown in the foothills. If you want to combine both Taormina and Mount Etna and don’t have a car, then you can take this full-day tour  or this day tour.

Finally, another great option is to head south to the city of Siracusa (Syracuse). This city boasts some more incredible ancient ruins, stunning Baroque artitecture and it is a unique and beautiful place to explore. If you don’t have a car, you can go by train or an organised tour such as this day tour.

Day 3 – Catania

On day 3, you have a choice. You can either take this day to dig deeper and explore more of Catania (this is what I would recommend) or, if you’ve had your fill of the city, you can opt to go on a day trip to somewhere nearby.

The latter is a good option if you feel you can’t choose just one of the many day trip options from Catania.

If you choose to remain in the city, spend your day wandering through the Mercato di Piazza Carlo Alberto, enjoying the tranquillity of the Villa Bellini and visiting some of the other top sites of the city that you may have missed on your previous day.

Day 4 – Cefalu

Day 4 is a travel day with your eventual destination being the capital city of Palermo, where you’ll spend the night.

The drive from Catania to Palermo is only about 3 hours and it is mostly along a well-maintained and paved highway. However, keep in mind that driving into Palermo can be a bit hectic and stressful, so make sure you are prepared.

While en route to Palermo, plan to make a stop in the beautiful town of Cefalu. Located on the north coast of Sicily, you can enjoy a lovely beach here, take in views of the Aeolian islands and get lost in the charming old town.

There are gorgeous views of the surrounding cliffside and a great, laid-back vibe here that makes it very much worth exploring.

Cefalu is located about an hour from Palermo and you can reach the town in about 2-2.5 hours from Catania, so it makes for the perfect stop along the way without adding much to your journey time.

Where to Stay in Palermo

Alma Hotel – This 3-star hotel makes for a great option for mid-range travellers in Palermo. It is centrally located, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and they offer a buffet breakfast each morning.

Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is an excellent luxury option in Palermo. It is centrally located for exploring the highlights of the Sicilian capital, they have countless plush rooms available and a number of other amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Appartamento Piazza Pretoria – This 2-bedroom flat is a great option for those looking for a self-catering option in Palermo. It has an excellent location near the Pretoria Fountain and Quattro Canti and comes fully equipped with everything you may need.

A Casa di Amici Boutique Hostel – For those travelling on a budget or solo, this hostel is a great choice for you. They have a good, social atmosphere, offer both dorms and private rooms and it is well-located to explore all Palermo has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Palermo hotels!

Day 5 – Palermo

Plan to spend the fifth day of your Sicily road trip itinerary exploring the lively, electric city of Palermo! As Sicily’s capital city, planning to spend at least 2 days in Palermo is absolutely essential if you’re going to be spending any amount of time in this region.

Spend your first day in the city taking in some of the top sites in the city centre along with some of the city’s intoxicating markets.

Wander around the Quattro Canti, the Pretoria Fountain, beautiful churches, the Palermo Cathedral and the Mercato di Ballaro among many other things. You can even organise a guided walking tour or a street food tour!

End your day with an aperitivo before heading to La Vucciria to really take in the energy of this lively city at its famed night market.

Day 6 – Palermo

The sixth day of your trip should also be devoted to exploring Palermo because there are likely several places that you haven’t seen just yet.

Spend your morning taking the Massimo Theatre, the Archaeological Museum and gorging yourself on arancini and caponata at the Mercato di Capo.

In the afternoon, head out to Mondello Beach, a lovely stretch of sand located to the north of the city.

After spending a few hours lounging on the beach, head to Monte Pellegrino to enjoy some spectacular views over Palermo, the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding area.

Day 7 – Monreale, Segesta & Erice

If you only have one week in Sicily, this will be the final day of your Sicily itinerary and you should, instead of making your way to Trapani, plan to do a day trip to Agrigento from Palermo.

However, if you are planning a 10-day Sicily itinerary, then use this day to make some pit stops while en route to the coastal city of Trapani.

The first stop on your drive to Trapani should be in the town of Monreale, which is only located about 10 kilometres outside of Palermo. This town is well-known for its beautiful cathedral and gorgeous mosaics.

After exploring a bit of Monreale, drive to the archaeological site of Segesta. Located about an hour outside of Palermo, this is home to an excellently preserved ancient Greek temple and a beautiful amphitheatre.

The two sites are located a bit away from each other (and the theatre is up quite a steep hill), so it’s recommended to take the shuttle bus up the hill to see the amphitheatre. Plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here.

Make your final stop for the day be the lovely hilltop town of Erice. Located on a hill overlooking Trapani, Erice is absolutely beautiful and boasts incredible views (especially on the drive up — you can also take a cable car from Trapani, however) and picturesque cobble lanes and alleyways.

End your day in Trapani, enjoying the lovely location on the confluence of the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian seas.

Where to Stay in Trapani

Hotel San Michele – Located in the centre of Trapani, this hotel is an excellent choice for mid-range travellers to this western Sicilian city. They have clean, cool and comfortable rooms available and offer breakfast each morning.

Room Of Andrea Hotel – This 4-star hotel is the perfect choice for those looking for a luxe stay in Trapani. It has an excellent location for exploring the city and its surrounding area, plush rooms available and plenty of other wonderful amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Residence La Gancia – If you’d like your own space in Trapani, then this aparthotel is an excellent choice. It is centrally located close to the highlights of the city and they also have fully-furnished apartments available. There is also a bar and fitness centre on site.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Trapani hotels!

Day 8 – Trapani

Day 8 should be devoted to exploring lovely Trapani in Western Sicily. Though this is a major metropolitan area, the historical centre of Trapani is quite compact and you can easily explore the top sites within the span of a morning.

In the afternoon, you have a few options. You could opt to head to the beach (there are several lovely beaches within a stone’s throw of Trapani’s centre) and soak up the sun for the rest of the day. Or you could hop on a ferry and spend a half-day exploring the nearby island of Favignana.

As the sun begins to set, make sure to hop in the car and head to the salt pans located just south of the city centre. Sometimes, you can even see flamingos enjoying the salinated waters here.

Day 9 – Marsala & Selinunte

On the penultimate day of your Sicilian adventure, it’s time to leave Trapani and make your way along the south coast of Sicily en route to Agrigento – but, of course, there are plenty of stops to make along the way!

The first is in the coastal city of Marsala. This town is famous for its eponymous fortified wine, but it also boasts a charming historical centre and some salt pans that are very similar to those in Trapani.

Afterwards, make your way to Selinunte, a lovely archaeological park located on the south coast of Sicily. This park includes the ruins of countless temples and other ancient sites and it is absolutely fascinating to wander around. Its location on the coast also boasts incredible views of the Mediterranean, as well.

If you’re looking for a great meal, we highly recommend heading to Trattoria Casa Mia in the town just a few hundred metres from the park entrance. It is a bit unassuming, but this ended up being one of our favourite meals during our time in Sicily.

From Selinunte, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive before you reach Agrigento.

Where to Stay in Agrigento

Hotel Exclusive – Located in the centre of Agrigento, this hotel is a great base for exploring all this area has to offer. They have clean and comfortable rooms available and they also have a great breakfast available each morning.

Doric Boutique Hotel – This luxury hotel is a great place to stay when exploring the area near Agrigento if you’re after a plush stay. They are expertly poised for exploring the Valley of the Temples, they have lovely rooms to choose from and there is a restaurant, bar and spa/wellness centre on site.

A Cantunera LittleHouse – For those looking for their own space while visiting Agrigento are sure to love this two-bedroom house. It is well located to explore the area and it comes fully furnished and well-equipped with everything you may need for a great stay in Sicily.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Agrigento hotels!

Day 10 – Agrigento

Spend the final day of your 10 days in Sicily exploring the highlights surrounding the town of Agrigento. This area is most famous for being home to the Valley of the Temples, which is an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site that houses seven ruined Greek temples – including some of the best-preserved temples in the world.

Plan to spend the morning exploring the Valley of the Temples – you need at least a couple of hours in order to do the park justice. Stop for lunch in Agrigento proper before making your way to the beautiful Scala dei Turchi.

These are beautiful white cliffs that cascade into the sea and very much resemble a staircase. If you want to fight the crowds and try and find a place to park, you can even climb over the cliffs and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean.

From the Scala dei Turchi, head to Lido Rosello. This is a beautiful beach located right next to the cliffs and it provides incredible views of the Scala dei Turchi with a fraction of the crowds. End your Sicily itinerary by lounging on the beach and enjoying the incredible scenery that surrounds you.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 10 days in Sicily, then there are countless ways to extend your trip. The first thing that springs to mind is to plan to spend a day or two in southeast Sicily around Siracusa.

You can spend a day or two exploring the city itself and another couple of days heading to the hill towns in the nearby Val di Noto such as Ragusa and Modica.

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path, then you could also head to the Aeolian islands and spend a bit of time hopping around this gorgeous and historic archipelago.

Planning a Sicily itinerary is one of the most fun trips to map out in all of Italy. An island with so much to offer, there is no wrong way to visit this incredible place.

Are you planning to visit Sicily? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

One Day in Siena Itinerary: A Day Trip from Florence

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

Italy or Spain: Which Country Should You Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Maggie and really enjoyed the info you have provided. We are 2 older fit lades (from Australia) planning to tour Sicily in early November. Many of the small group Tours don’t really cover what we want and the private Tours for 2 are expensive. At this point I am thinking I could possibly plan our own private itinerary for the 2 weeks. I have been doing this for 45 years and have never had problems. But the one big hitch is we need a driver to take us from place to place – say Palermo to our next port of call. We would spend say 2 to 3 nights doing some day excursions which I would organise when we arrived or pre-plan. Can you let me know how we would go about finding the 4 or 5 private drivers we would need? no point in engaging the 1 person when we may be spending several nights in one spot. Would appreciate any help many thanks Leigh Enever

Hi Leigh – sounds like you’re planning a great trip and I’m happy you’ve found this information helpful! You can find a lot of private drivers here on Viator that will hopefully be what you’re looking for 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Experience sicily with collette.

If Sicily or Malta is calling you, we’ve got your answer: go guided with Collette! Go off-roading on Mt. Etna. Drink some local wine. Follow your curiosity. It all starts now!

Your Sicily Experience with Collette

Designed for travelers.

We get it. We’re travelers, too! Our teams are hyper-focused on one thing: ensuring you have the time of your life.

Unique Accommodations

Your accommodations keep you in the heart of it all – from the countryside to the waterfront or right in town.

Led by Experts

Enjoy a travel experience from a local’s point of view, backed by a century of expertise as a tour operator.

Beyond the Guidebook

Check off the must-see sights as well as countless moments you couldn't find in any guidebook.

By Travelers, For Travelers: Savor the Collette Difference in Sicily

The Road Less Traveled

Sometimes, reinventing the wheel is amazing . On the Old World Sicily & Malta tour, see Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna (UNESCO). Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano.

Closer to Culture

Get to know the world-renowned Sicilian hospitality firsthand on our Southern Italy and Sicily tour. You’ll journey to a family-owned farmhouse, meet the owners, and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like. Learn how ricotta cheese is made and tuck into a hearty farm-to-table dinner, made with family recipes.

Tough Truths

On our Sicily and Its Isles tour, get to know Addiopizzo . This anti-Mafia nonprofit supports locals who refuse to pay the Mafia’s protection fees. Travelers will be on location where some turning-point Mafia attacks happened, and you’ll meet people directly affected by the Mafia’s despicable actions.

FEATURED TOURS

SMALL GROUP EXPLORATIONS

Old World Sicily & Malta

12 days | 16 meals.

Sicily and Its Isles

14 days | 20 meals.

15 days | 23 meals

Southern Italy & Sicily

13 days | 20 meals.

*Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date.

Amunì! (Let’s go!)

Get a Taste of Sicily from our Local Experts

New podcast episode behind the tour: savoring sicily.

Shannon Levi designs our Italian tours. As an Italian herself, she’s so passionate about her culture. In the latest episode of our podcast, she shared the distinction of traveling to Sicily versus destinations in Northern and Central Italy.

Plus, she talked about eating gelato for breakfast. This is a must-listen for sure. Catch the latest episode of our Travel Unpacked podcast now!

Collette Playlist

Sicilians have a reputation for their deep sense of community. And that community is deeply animated. Get a taste of the lively music of this region. Dancing shoes are recommended.

Related Blog Content

Stepping into culture in sicily, get a taste of sicilian street food, the wines of sicily, find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

Southern Italy & Sicily Tours

• Featured Tours
• Top Things to Do
• Travel Agents

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  4.9  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1585  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Each region of Italy is defined by local traditions and experiences, and Italy is a place where excellent food & wine will surely accompany you on your journey. Discover Southern Italy & Sicily, from the colorful, seaside villages of Amalfi and the authentic culture in Puglia to the ancient history of the Valley of the Kings on Sicily, with a customized tour from Zicasso.

Life-Enriching Travel Designed Just for You

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Zicasso in the News

Highlights of Southern Italy and Sicily Tour

8  Day Custom Tour

From  $3,600

Hiking Southern Italy Tour: Trails of the Bay of Naples & Sicily

10  Day Custom Tour

From  $4,500

Southern Italy Discovery in 2 Weeks

14  Day Custom Tour

From  $7,100

Slow Food & Leisurely Wine Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily

From  $6,300

Family Friendly Vacation to Southern Italy and Sicily

9  Day Custom Tour

From  $4,100

A Serene Senior’s Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily

7  Day Custom Tour

From  $3,200

Why Travelers Choose Us

Benefits of Using Zicasso

Romantic Couple’s Tour to Southern Italy and Sicily

10 Days Off the Beaten Path Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily

Immersive Southern Italy and Sicily Tour: Food, Culture, and History

Perfect Three-Week Italy Vacation: Southern Italy & Sicily

21  Day Custom Tour

From  $9,500

Southern Italy and Sicily Tour: History & Indulgent Shores

11  Day Custom Tour

From  $5,000

Best of Southern Italy & Sicily Tour

Show More • ( 2 itineraries)

We Work With the Best Travel Agents for Southern Italy & Sicily Tours

4.8  based on  17  reviews

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.89 stars based on 5482 reviews.

Reviewed By  Jill K.

Reviewed By  Russ W.

Reviewed By  Natalie P.

Reviewed By  Bob R.

Reviewed By  Cami P.

Reviewed By  Ingrid w.

• Meet the Team
• Work With Us
• Itineraries
• Italy Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Things to do

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Travel Resources

Premium Sicily and Tuscany

17 days | explore the magical heart of the mediterranean and discover the treasures of tuscany.

Make your way to the heart of the Mediterranean to discover the wonders of Sicily before embarking on an adventure from iconic Rome to Venice. This trip combines culture, cuisine and natural beauty to unveil the best of Italy. From visiting a nobleman at his home in Rome during an exclusive tour to driving up the flank of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, this trip goes the extra mile to deliver experiences that go beyond the guidebooks. So, get ready to tuck into delicious Italian eats, explore iconic sites and brush up on your ancient history during this 17-day premium adventure.

Trip overview

Our best 4-star accommodation and the highest level of service

All must-see locations plus authentic experiences exclusive to Premium

Trips led by our most experienced and highest-rated local leaders

• Explore Rome’s iconic Colosseum by moonlight during an Exclusive Experience evening tour. Walk in the footsteps of gladiators without the jostling daytime crowds.
• Get a taste for Italy’s incredible cuisine and viticulture during a trip to celebrated wine-growing region, San Gimignano, plus enjoy a traditional cooking class in Palermo, a genovesi tasting in Erice and mouth-watering cheese and chocolate tastings (yes, please) on your way to Siracusa
• Stay in awe-inspiring accommodation nestled in the rolling vineyards of Tuscany and in the Sicilian countryside.
• Discover Palermo’s most symbolic places of rebellion and meet the local people who are taking a stance against the Mafia on an Anti-Mafia Movement tour.
• Discover incredible landscapes across Sicily including Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna, as you walk into the centre of an extinct crater and visit a lava cave.
• Summer temperatures can be extreme in this region (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
• During your trip you will visit numerous religious sites. You will need to bring clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. A light scarf is a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot. Your leader will be able to advise when such clothing is necessary.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Welcome to Sicily, we’re kicking things off in the region's capital – Palermo. Upon arrival, a complimentary airport transfer will take you into the city. This evening we have our first dinner together and a welcome meeting with your local guide and fellow travellers. But until then, the city is yours to explore. If you have time, you might like to get acquainted with the sights and sounds of the old heart of Palermo, and gaze upon some of the main monuments such as the uniquely styled cathedral. Or maybe you’ll choose to café-hop and try the best of Sicily’s sweets. Whatever your fancy, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Palermo.

• Ai Cavalieri Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Palermo -Complimentary Arrival Transfer
• Palermo - Welcome Meeting
• Palermo - Welcome Dinner

The welcome meeting is at 6pm. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Sicily's unique cuisine sees Spanish, Greek and Arab influences and combined with a gentle climate and fertile soil, it is known all over the world. Delve deeper into this all important part of culture during a hands on cooking class. Not only will get to know the recipes, you will be learning how to create Sicilian dishes with the help of a local chef. As locally sourced products are used in the preparation of dishes, the menu may differ depending on seasonality and market availability, but your resulting lunch will be a treat.

This afternoon, join a walking tour with your local guide and uncover symbolic places of rebellion and anti-mafia racketeering. Places such as the Teatro Massimo, Cape Market, Piazza della Memoria, Beati Paoli Square and more, all have a rich history in civil mobilisation. Plus, these areas serve up some mouth-watering street food. You’ll personally meet local shop owners who have had the courage to denounce their extortionists and follow the ethical consumer campaign ‘Pago chi non paga’, a campaign promoted to support those that rebel against the Mafia.

• Palermo - Anti-Mafia Tour
• Palermo - Sicilian Cooking Class

Today it is time to say goodbye to beautiful Palermo as we head toward the small town of Erice. Located more than 750 meters above sea level, this beautifully preserved medieval town hosts, despite being handed from one ruling army to the next, many beautiful buildings showcasing architectural styles from its varied history. One thing that cannot be missed during your visit is Genovesi – traditional Sicilian pastries filled with custard or ricotta cream. Luckily for you, we’ve organised a special Genovesi tasting. After our visit to Erice we continue south towards Marsala, a lovely coastal town where we’ll stay tonight. Famous for its sweet dessert wines, you might choose to go out and enjoy a sip, or two, of Marsala’s delicious drinks with newfound friends or simply stroll the marble paved streets and explore at your leisure.

• Via Colvento Marsala Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Erice - Town Visit
• Erice - Genovesi Tasting
• Erice - Cable Car

This morning head east as you stop in the old port of Mazara del Vallo. It is here that some of the Arab influences in Sicily are most clearly visible. As you stroll through the kasbah (Arab Quarter) you will witness the artistic and cultural enrichment brought on by the arrival of Tunisian families in the 70's. Wander the winding lanes and alleyways swept with colourful murals. Then, we’ll continue to Agrigento with one final stop in our journey at Scala dei Turchi (Stair of the Turks) along the way. Scala dei Turchi is a truly spectacular coastline with white marble cliffs that offered protection from severe winds for the pirates that roamed these waters. Finally, we make our way to Agrigento where we’ll stay in a magical boutique hotel built in the 13th century. Tonight you will share a meal with your fellow travellers at your here.

• Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna - Feature Stay or similar (1 night)
• Mazara del Vallo - Kasbah Visit
• Scala dei Turchi - Visit

This morning, after breakfast, travel to the nearby Valley of the Temples. One of the largest archaeological sites in the world, it is situated where the ancient city of Akragas once stood. Your local guide will bring this classical Greek site to life as you visit the temples of Hera, Herakles, Zeus and Castor and Pollux. Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of the landscape and Mediterranean Sea. Return to Agrigento and enjoy the afternoon in any way you wish. Perhaps, head to Agrigento's old town to wander the narrow alleyways and courtyards or find a local café, grab a panino, sit and watch the world go by.

• Agrigento - Guided visit Valley of the Temples

Today, we kiss Agrigento goodbye and hit the road en route to Siracusa – but not without a few important stops along the way. The first stop today in Ragusa will not disappoint – it’s one of the most scenic towns in all of Sicily. Explore the town and then continue to architecturally fascinating Modica, particularly famous for its chocolate, it is a must-stop for any serious foodie. After tasting some of the local produce we continue to Noto and get acquainted with the city on a guided walking tour. Lesser-known Noto has recently gained a reputation as an architectural jewel, its limestone structures dazzle on a sunlit afternoon. Finally, we make our last stop of the day in Siracusa, where we will stay for the next two nights.

• Grand Hotel Villa Politi or similar (1 night)
• Modica - Visit and Chocolate Tasting
• Noto - Guided Walk

Today’s driving time is approximately 5 hours.

This morning, enjoy an orientation walk through Ortigia – a small island just adjacent to the main town of Siracusa. Wandering the narrow streets and laneways will reveal ancient ruins, stunning fountains and authentic trattorias, all situated on the medieval island. In the afternoon head to the Neapolis Archaeological Site – known as one of the world’s finest – with your local guide by your side. Uncover the crumbling ruins of the ancient Greek and Roman town; from the Greek theatre to the Roman amphitheatre and ancient stone quarries. Covering an area of 35 hectares, there’s plenty of land to explore and plenty of history to learn about on this guided tour.

• Siracusa - Ortigia Orientation Walk

Today, come face-to-face with Europe’s largest active volcano on a daytrip up Mt Etna. At an altitude of approximately 2,000 metres, walk into the centre of an extinct crater and visit a lava cave that can be explored with helmets and torches. Walk among the cold lava streams of Piano Provenzana, a former ski resort that has been destroyed during the last big eruption of 2002. After exploring the fiery natural wonder, continue to the atmospheric city of Catania. The city has a unique energy to it, an interesting blend of young and old. On one hand, there’s a gritty, attractive bar culture that fuels an exuberant nightlife, full of flavour and laughter. On the other hand, the very core of the city boasts one of the fabled “Late Baroque” towns – the UNESCO World Heritage site, Val di Noto. This afternoon, you’ll get the opportunity to explore both sides of this curious city by wandering through its grand piazzas and wide roads.

• Hotel Principe or similar (1 night)
• Catania - Mount Etna Visit

Today’s driving time is approximately 2.5 hours.

After breakfast today, take a day trip to the charming city of Taormina. Start things off with a guided walk, where you’ll notice Greek influence in the architecture. Walk through the back streets, gardens, and visit the world-famous Greek theatre and the cathedral. The afternoon will be at your leisure, so there's plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Have a drink in the Mediterranean sun or dig into some traditional Sicilian pasta before heading back for our final night in Catania. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant with your newfound travel friends and group leader.

• Taormina - Guided Walk
• Taormina - Greek Theatre Admission

Welcome to Rome! Enjoy a complimentary transfer to your hotel and settle in. If you arrive with time to spare, the city’s magnificent buildings are best appreciated on foot, so perhaps wander in search of an espresso. Your Italian adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you will meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Once the formalities are out of the way, get your first taste of Italy over an included dinner with your group at an excellent local restaurant. Sitting down to dinner in Rome means experiencing generations of culinary know-how and timeless traditional recipes. Once your leader introduces you to some of Italy’s best dishes, you’ll understand why this country is so renowned for great food.

• Romanico Palace Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Rome - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
• Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Please advise your travel agent of your flight details at the time of booking so we can organise the arrival transfer for you. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

If you are interested in visiting the Colosseum, we strongly suggest planning your visit before the welcome meeting or on Day 11 afternoon (not before 15:00) and pre-booking your tickets at https://colosseo.it/en/opening-times-and-tickets/

If you are interested in visiting the Vatican Museums, we strongly suggest planning your visit before the welcome meeting or on Day 11 afternoon (not before 15:00) and pre-booking your tickets at https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html

From incredible ancient monuments to glamourous restaurants and boutiques, Rome is a city of great beauty and diversity. Today your leader will take you back in time as you learn about historical monuments during an orientation walk of the city. Marvel at the Roman Forum, the Victor Emmanuel Monument, the Pantheon, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona and Venezia, the Spanish Steps and Via Dei Condotti. Stop in at a local bar for a quick coffee or gelato. The afternoon is free for you to explore as you please – perhaps take the chance to visit the majestic Vatican City and St Peter’s Basilica. Rome’s grandiose Colosseum is its most iconic site, and this evening you’ll have the opportunity to avoid the daytime crowds and explore the Colosseum by night. Follow the footsteps of gladiators and Roman emperors as your leader shares the unbelievable history of this great arena.

• Rome – Coffee Granita (Coffee semi-frozen dessert)
• Rome – Guided walking tour
• Rome – Nobleman’s home visit and lunch (Exclusive Experience)
• Vatican City - Vatican Museum - EUR22
• Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator - EUR10
• Rome - Venezia Palace - EUR17
• Rome - Galleria Borghese - EUR16
• Rome - Pantheon - EUR5
• Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo - EUR14
• Rome - Christian Catacombs - EUR10
• Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House - EUR6
• Rome – Colosseum - EUR18

You can pre-book tickets to the Vatican Museum online to avoid the long queues. Visit https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html for more information.

Today you’ll take a private vehicle to the gorgeous city of Siena, where your leader will show you the most interesting sights on an orientation walk. At the city’s heart is Piazza del Campo – home to the biannual Palio horse race, and nearby is the stunning Siena Cathedral. Next you’ll visit Monteriggioni – a charming medieval walled town. Over a dozen towers are spread throughout the town, once used to defend Sienese territory from the Florentines. You will have time to explore this tiny hilltop spot before arriving at your Feature Stay accommodation near San Gimignano. This country hotel with cinematic views of a tree-studded landscape and a refreshing outdoor pool is a fine spot to unwind. Tonight, indulge in an included gourmet dinner at your hotel with your group – the food is made with local ingredients and pays homage to traditional Tuscan dishes, with a modern twist.

• Terre Rosse or Villa San Giorgio (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
• Siena - Orientation Walk
• Monteriggioni - Orientation Walk
• Chianti Region - Gourmet Dinner

Today’s journey is approximately 3.5 hours.

Start the day with a visit to San Gimignano – the 'Town of Fine Towers'. Explore the medieval Old Town centre and its fine Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with your leader on hand to answer any questions inspired by your explorations. This region is also renowned for its ancient Vernaccia grapes, which are the basis for one of Tuscany's finest white wines. Your group will visit a local agriturismo, where you’ll explore the vineyards and sample some of their celebrated wine, before enjoying an included lunch featuring regional cheese, fine olive oil and bruschetta. Return to your Feature Stay accommodation for another delicious dinner.

• San Gimignano - Agriturismo Winery Tour & Tasting

Today’s total driving time is approximately 4 hours.

Today you’ll visit Pisa. It’s not always possible to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa due to its precarious state, but as your leader shares the history of this legendary building, you will have the opportunity to photograph it from the ground. Your next stop is Lucca, where you’ll take a short walk along the city’s beautifully preserved Renaissance walls.

Next up, depart to Florence where you’ll discover the city on an orientation walk with your leader. Marvel at the Duomo cathedral, visit St. John's Baptistery and hear stories of the Medici family who ruled over the city during the Renaissance. Cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge and stop by the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy. Established in 1221, this is believed to be the oldest operating pharmacy in the world. You’ll visit the Giardino delle Rose for a sweet-scented walk among 400 rose species before heading to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views of Florence’s timeless skyline.

• Hotel Laurus al Duomo or similar (1 night)
• Florence - Orientation Walk
• Pisa - Pisa Visit & Orientation walk
• Lucca - City Walls & Orientation Walk
• Pisa - Leaning Tower of Pisa - EUR27

This morning join a private guided walk of Florence you will earn about its Glorious past and the notable families that made Florence an important centre for culture, economy and politics. Your tour includes a visit of the Galleria dell ‘Accademia, an art museum renowned for its collection of sculptures, including the iconic statue of David by Michelangelo.

Enjoy a free afternoon at your own pace – ask your leader for some local tips on the best way to spend the day. Visiting the Uffizi while you are here is highly recommended – it is one of the oldest galleries in the world, and a building of great beauty. And be sure to head to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views of Florence’s timeless skyline. Sample some of the culinary delicacies on offer from across Tuscany, with dishes known for their freshness, simplicity and quality. Olive oil, beans and herbs are a feature here. Two standout dishes of the region are bistecca alla fiorentina, a large steak sliced on the bone and shared between multiple diners, and ribollita, a simple, hearty soup of bread, vegetables, and beans. Panforte is the signature sweet treat.

• Hotel Leonardo da Vinci or similar (1 night)
• Florence - Galleria dell ’Accademia admission
• Florence – Highlights of Florence Guided walk
• Florence - Museo dell'Opera di S.Maria del Fiore - EUR15
• Florence - Pitti Palace (Boboli Gardens, Museo Argenti, Costume Gallery, Porcellain Museum) - EUR15
• Florence - Bargello Museum - EUR14
• Florence - Palazzo Vecchio - EUR12
• Florence - Uffizi Gallery - EUR24
• Florence - Medici Chapels - EUR17
• Florence - Baptistry - EUR10
• Florence - Duomo & Campanile - EUR15
• Florence - Accademia - EUR17

All the Florentine State Museums require tickets and the queues can be long. Booking your tickets online in advance (Firenze Musei | Sito ufficiale) is essential. Your leader can be of assistance booking these but be sure to organise it at the beginning of your trip.

If you are interested in visiting the Galleria Uffizi and Galleria dell'Accademia , we strongly suggest planning your visit in the afternoon (Accademia might become and inclusion though) and pre-booking your tickets at https://firenzemusei.it/

In the morning, head to the railway station and take a high-speed train to Venice. Upon arrival your leader will take you on an orientation walk so you can get acquainted with the city’s maze of canals and learn about its unique history. You will make a stop at the Venice Academy of Music and will take in the view of the city from their rooftop. Lunch today is a tasting of cicchetti – Venice’s version of tapas. Enjoy a delicious array of small dishes such as black ink calamari, polenta with seafood and seasonal vegetables. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. The Grand Canal, the quaint shopfronts that line the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza and Basilica di San Marco are all worthy sights to visit, or simply meander around the tiny cobbled streets and discover the beautiful markets, cafes, galleries and churches. A Venetian gondola ride down the canals is a must, as is a taste of the region’s dessert speciality, tiramisu.

• Hotel Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio or similar (1 night)
• Venice -Traghetto boat ride
• Venice - Farewell Dinner at Local Restaurant
• Venice - Academy of Music Visit

Our means of transportation between Florence and Venice is by 1st class high-speed train (approximately 2 hours).

With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast. Those looking to extend their stay can arrange additional nights' accommodation at the time of booking the trip (subject to availability).

• Venice - Museum of St Mark's Basilica - EUR5
• Venice - Gondola Ride - EUR80
• Venice - St Mark's Campanile - EUR12
• Venice - Glass Museum Murano - EUR11
• Venice - Ca' Rezzonico Museum of Eighteenth Century Art - EUR11
• Venice - Scuola Grande di San Rocco - EUR14
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection - EUR17
• Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs - EUR30
• Ca’ D’Oro - Galería Franchetti - EUR15
• Venice - St Mark's Basilica Treasury - EUR5
• Venice - Accademia Gallery - EUR16

If you are interested in visiting the Doge Palace, Venice, we strongly suggest planning your visit on the departure day as there is very limited time on Day 16 and pre-book your tickets at https://muve.vivaticket.it/en/tour/palazzo-ducale/2478?qubsq=8cd3daed-1b9e-4df0-a209-4833f9c62371&qubsp=279989d9-9291-44b1-899f-169c3d93c415&qubsts=1716888509&qubsc=bestunion&qubse=vivaticketserver&qubsrt=Safetynet&qubsh=7cb44c49d26eb092de1552a748b8ae4c

15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners

Private vehicle, train, flight

Comfortable Hotel (12 nights), Feature Stay (4 nights)

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room? on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip? and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

• Places and cities
• Attractions
• Map of museums and parks
• LIVING SICILY
• Itineraries
• Travel proposals
• How to reach Sicily
• Tourist information

SICILY a unique feeling

• Where to go? Everywhere Acireale Adrano Agrigento Aidone Alcamo Alcara Li Fusi Avola Bagheria Bisacquino Bivona Blufi Borgo Parrini Bronte Buccheri Burgio Butera Caccamo Calascibetta Calatafimi Segesta Caltabellotta Caltagirone Caltanissetta Capo d’Orlando Carini Castelbuono Castellammare del Golfo Castelmola Castelvetrano Castiglione di Sicilia Castroreale Catania Cefalù Chiusa Sclafani Cinisi Corleone Custonaci Egadi Enna Eolie Erice Etna Favara Ferla Gangi Gela Geraci Siculo Giardini Naxos Gibellina Giuliana Grammichele Gratteri Ispica Lampedusa & Linosa Letojanni Licata Marsala Marzamemi Mazara del Vallo Messina Milazzo Militello in Val di Catania Milo Modica Mojo Alcantara Mondello Monreale Montalbano Elicona Monterosso Almo Naro Nicosia Niscemi Noto Novara di Sicilia Paceco Pachino Palazzo Adriano Palazzolo Acreide Palermo Pantelleria Parco Archeologico di Selinunte Partinico Paternò Patti Petralia Soprana Piana degli Albanesi Piazza Armerina Porto Empedocle Portopalo di Capo Passero Ragusa Randazzo Realmonte Salemi Sambuca di Sicilia San Cono San Marco d’Alunzio San Vito lo Capo Santo Stefano Quisquina Savoca Sciacca Scicli Siracusa Sperlinga Sutera Taormina Terme Vigliatore Termini Imerese Terrasini Trapani Troina Tusa Ustica Zafferana Etnea
• What's your interests? All interests Art and Culture    Archaeological Sicily    Art in Sicily    Handicraft    Living Traditions    Places of Culture    Sicily and Cinema    UNESCO Event    Christmas    Cinema and shows    Conventions and congresses    Exhibitions    Festival    Festivals, fairs and markets    Folklore and traditional festivals    Major Events    Music    Other events    Sport and adventure    Theater Families and Children Inland Outdoors    By Bike    By Motorbike    Sport and Adventure    Trekking and Outdoor Sea in Sicily Spa and Wellness Spirituality    Religious Tourism    Sacred Routes Territory Tourism Commitment Traveling you learn Unmissable flavors Villages Xmas in Sicily

HIGH LIGHTS

Discover unique proposals to consult on the fly

WELCOME TO SICILY  G7 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES 

Syracuse is ready to welcome the G7 Agriculture and Fisheries , with a series of side events that will last 9 days, from 21 to 29 September : exhibition stands, tastings, musical entertainment throughout the historic centre, sporting events and the opportunity of visiting the Diciotti and Gregoretti coastguard ships!

Event Exhibitions

Caravaggio: the truth of light

From 1 June to 6 October 2024, Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, will be the exceptional protagonist in Catania with [...]

Thesaurus - Discovering a secret heritage

From 13 December 2023 to 30 September 2024, the Norman Palace in Palermo will host a major exhibition that will [...]

Event Festival Festivals, fairs and markets Major Events Music

Cous Cous Festival

The ten day event of food and music has become an important international gastronomic appointment. On the threshold of autumn, it [...]

GET  INSPIRED

EXPERIENCES TO BE LIVED

How many times have you yearned to enjoy a fully relaxing holiday, to contemplate a beautiful landscape while breathing in clean air and sipping a good glass of Etna DOC?

To stroll through a piazza with open-air bars and get lost in a maze of narrow streets, with your nose in the air, wandering between flowery windowsills and bell towers, noble palaces and rounded balconies, peering into courtyards?

Dreams and desires can come true: it’s time to visit Sicily’s beautiful villages.

These small towns by the sea, surrounded by greenery, nestled in the hinterland or perched on the mountains will offer you what you are looking for, with small curiosities and new discoveries, such as houses carved out of the rock that were inhabited until the last century, or the most famous film set of all time.

In each of the nine Sicilian provinces, you will find the right village for you and, nearby, many other places that may be less renowned but will remain forever in your heart.

These people-friendly places and holidays can be experienced in company and in safety, where the watchword is “unspoiled”, just like your chosen village.

Unmissable flavors

The flavours, shapes, scents and colours of Sicilian food have become symbols of overwhelming pleasure all over the world.

The outstanding desserts include cannolo   and cassata , which bring out the freshness and authenticity of local ricotta. Granita , which does not include ice here, reveals itself in all its creaminess. It can be difficult to choose between the many flavours and it is so delicious it can even give the best homemade ice cream a run for its money. Never alone: it should be accompanied by an aromatic hot brioche , and strictly with a “tuppo” (nobble).

Almonds , another of the island’s points of pride, are used to make the paste that is often chosen as a sweet souvenir by those visiting a distant friend. It is also the basis for a thirst-quenching and sumptuous milk and the choreographic creations of martorana fruit , which add life to the windows of the pastry shops and amuse tourists and passers-by.

In Sicily there are many delicacies rooted in tradition and faith , which become beloved symbols before they being consumed.

Bridging sweet and savoury, the juiciest red oranges  come from the countryside most beloved by the sun, while the most famous pistachios , those from Bronte, now dominate the culinary scene thanks to their gastronomic flexibility, which ranges from their use as sweet cream in desserts to the intense pestos that bring together ancient grains [link to Sicilian Ancient Grains] in the form of inimitable first courses.

A treasure trove of flavours: from Bronte’s green gold to the finest red gold , Saffron , which seduces the palate and inspires you to dream. And digging in the undergrowth, precious jewels and nuggets emerge: mushrooms and truffles .

An icon of Sicilianness, arancin*  has a name that divides people but its taste brings everyone together: it is a rice-based wonder, an essential fried delicacy and the pinnacle of Sicilian street food .

Sicily is the cradle of the Mediterranean diet , which has always been the healthiest and most varied approach to food. It also brings out the best of fish and vegetables through caponata and parmigiana , as well as pickles and infinite speciality dishes, in which the Pachino tomato reigns supreme .

In Sicily, the dinner table becomes a “stage” for exhilarating flavours: one case in point is pasta alla Norma , made with tomato sauce and fried aubergines, and so named because it is considered sublime like the work of the same name by the “Swan”, the composer Vincenzo Bellini.

Meat from historic farms, such as the Nebrodi black pig, rounds off rich and surprisingly impeccable menus.

The price of Sicilian wines is rising rapidly, as the product becomes increasingly sincere, intoxicating and versatile. It serves as an invitation to savour this island in small sips, with a glass in your hand and lightness in your heart.

Walking along the nostalgic paths of taste  you will find that even dipping bread in oil  proves why you will never have enough of Sicily.

Visiting the local markets will be the best way to deeply discover the tasty, spicy and most authentic flavours of Sicilian street food. Sicilian street food is among the most celebrated, and its main symbol is the arancin * of contention, which is loved and appreciated all over the world.

Sicily is the cradle of the Mediterranean diet and will surprise you witha thousand combinations of poor ingredients that enrich vegetarian menus.

And if you are wondering whether Sicily is the right destination for you, you will find the answer in a glass of local wine .

Discover all the flavours of your happy island.

Traveling you learn

In Sicily, you can visit the majestic volcano Etna , the Valley of the Temples , the Greek Theatre of Taormina and the one of Syracuse . You can learn more about Quasimodo, Verga, Il Gattopardo and the Rape of Persephone . Close your geography, science and art history books. Forget everything you learned at school and get ready to live a new experience.

You can follow the verses and passages of the greatest writers in world literature, from Sciascia to Camilleri, from Tomasi di Lampedusa to Pirandello . Travel along the literary routes that will lead you to discover an unusual side of Sicily.

Discover the roots of the fascinating myths and legends . These stories take inspiration from an extraordinary nature whose shapes and colours influenced the course of history itself. All tales reveal one truth: Sicily has always been a place loved by the Gods .

Travelling through Sicily, you can learn what rare botanical wonders live around the island. You can visit corners of paradise such as the Bioparco di Sicilia , or you can choose to follow the footsteps of Charles V around Sicily’s most beautiful cities . Spend some time watching hundreds of colourful kites soar through the sky, then taste and discover the history of real Aztec chocolate .

Travelling is the best way to learn something new and unique about Sicily.

Tourism Commitment

There are stories of men , perspectives, voices and hands that come together and, with commitment, give life to new hopes. They are the symbols of a Sicily that rises from its ashes.

Discover the Sicily that doesn’t give up.

The part of Sicily that does not want to be forgotten creates memorials. Palermo Ecomuseum promotes projects related to shared social responsibility, participatory care of the territory and sustainable tourism. The local community plans cultural, touristic and educational initiatives.

A terrible earthquake destroyed the town of Gibellina . Today its existence echoes through the work of its rebirth: Burri’s Cretto . There is a part of Sicily that shouldn’t be forgotten and abandoned. In Favara , from the greyness of a neighbourhood destined to decay, Florinda and Antonio created the Farm Cultural Park . Today it is one of the world’s most vibrant cultural centres. With Fiumara d’Arte, Antonio Presti has proclaimed the salvific power of beauty, creating one of the largest and most evocative land art parks in Europe. The inhabitants of the small and enchanting Borgo Parrini transformed the town into one of the most evocative places on the island, a virtuous example of urban regeneration.

There is another part of Sicily that does not surrender to fate. It pursues its dreams and reaches for the stars. One example is the shepherd poet Lorenzo Reina , who shapes the Andromeda Theatre in Santo Stefano Quisquina with his bare hands.

We cannot mention the part of Sicily that does not surrender to the Mafia . With infinite gratitude for the men who gave their lives to protect their land, it keeps their memory alive and educates the new generations to fight with messages of peace.

Discover the beautiful stories that Sicily has to tell. Prepare yourself for an exciting journey that will enrich your soul: this is what committed tourism is all about.

Sicily is the perfect and unique destination for those who want to spend a holiday surrounded by art, history and culture.

Let’s discover the cities and small towns of Sicily. Noto is the capital of Sicilian Baroque. In Caltagirone , we will be surprised by the blaze of colours of its ceramics. Syracuse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a walk through its streets will take you back in time. In Modica , the Duomo di San Giorgio’s great beauty (the Baroque icon in Sicily) will leave you speechless. In Marsala , you can admire the most beautiful sunset in the world, which makes the atmosphere of the Stagnone surreal. We then arrive in Piana degli Albanesi , a tiny Albania in the heart of Sicily, ready to welcome you with its lake teeming with life.

You will get to know such a wide and varied territory that you may wonder whether you are still in the same Region. Sicily seems to be the gateway to another dimension. Heaven and hell make peace in the Etnean landscape. Gods and nymphs weave love stories, unbridled passions and jealousies through forests, rivers and springs. But don’t forget to visit the smaller islands.

In Lipari , you can taste the worldwide famous Malvasia. Panarea is the most exclusive and popular destination. You can explore the Island of Alicudi on the back of a donkey. Don’t miss visiting the characteristic Island of Vulcano , renowned for its mud baths. Stromboli is pyrotechnical, while, in Salina , you can see the home of the poet Neruda, set of Massimo Troisi’s unforgettable movie “ Il Postino ”.

Then there are the Egadi Islands , Pantelleria , Ustica , Linosa and Lampedusa . They are all surrounded by a wonderful sea, and each Island has its palette of reflections, from deep blue to the turquoise sky. You will be completely captivated by the colours and atmosphere of these places.

There is too much to see, and it is hard to choose where to start. Do not waste time then: get ready to go. Sicily is waiting for you!

Spirituality

There is increasing demand for holidays that take us away from crowded places and daily stress, where the body and mind can find rest and meditation.

Excursions lead us to places where nature and silence reign, with monasteries, hermitages and shrines where it is possible to find religious devotion by retracing the paths of Saints and beatified people, as well as a secular moment of serenity.

The Sacred Paths are routes that have been travelled by pilgrims since ancient times, and have now become itineraries with great attraction for tourists. Some are a few dozen kilometres long, others hundreds. Discover the itineraries along the ancient roads of the Via Francigena or along the most beaten religious paths, and get ready to walk through the most enchanting places in Sicily.

Sicily is ready to offer an interesting network of religious routes that allow you to discover bright gems that are still little known, alone or with the help of local nature associations.

Spa and Wellness

Sicily offers a wide range of natural treatments to regenerate the body and mind.

If relaxation, sensory well-being and immersive pleasure are your top travel priorities, when you visit Sicily, you will discover that it is an amazing open-air spa .

It is not a matter of destination or length of your holiday: you will find out that the simplest and most natural things have extraordinary power over your health.

Breathe deeply and find your balance using the wisdom of the centuries-old forests and the energy of the frozen waterfalls . Surround yourself with sunshine and beauty. Relax on the salt crust in the unique setting of the Stagnone . Explore and rest in the natural caves , places of the Gods in the minor islands .

The thermal waters scattered throughout Sicily supply some of the best facilities in Italy .

Let your wellness journey begin. You deserve the best: you deserve Sicily.

Sea in Sicily

A quick look at the beaches, lidos and coves on the wonderful Sicily sea, with surprising transparency and richness of colours.

We’ll start from the coast on the south of this incredible island, going from Capo Passero in Syracuse to Capo Granitola in Trapani , which proudly reveals its golden sand with an exotic flair.

Marina di Ragusa, Pozzallo, Punta Secca in the territory of Ragusa , the Torre Salsa Reserve near Sciacca, the island of Lampedusa and the Scala dei Turchi in Agrigento have very long beaches that are usually not crowded, and which blend the “off-grid” harmony and relaxation we all seek.

This sandy coast extends to Mazara del Vallo and Marsala and continues with the Via del Sale, the Stagnone Reserve and Mozia in Trapani . Here we find out how salt is produced in the museums dedicated to it. Riserva dello Zingaro and the white, fine sandy beach of San Vito lo Capoe need no introduction and open up to the Tyrrhenian coast, characterised by a succession of beaches and cliffs.

The island of Ustica , Cefalù and Mondello in the Palermo area, the Aeolian Islands , Capo d’Orlando and Tindari in the province of Messina and the Egadi Islands in the Trapani region all overlook the Tyrrhenian Sea, where the blue of the sea is intense and snorkelling is very enjoyable.

The eastern coast starts after Messina with the lava rocks and pebble beaches of Taormina and Giardini Naxos, the Acireale Timpa Nature Reserve and the cliffs of Aci Trezza. The sand then returns in the Gulf of Catania , Syracuse , the Vendicari Reserve , going up to Marzamemi and the Isola delle Correnti, the precise point where the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea meet.

Also discover the child-friendly beaches and those that have been awarded the blue flag in 2024 !

The climate and landscapes allow you to pursue many outdoor sports activities in Sicily, combining wellness and fun: you will be spoilt for choice.

If you love the sea, you can dive and snorkel, experiencing the thrill of contact with the most awe-inspiring fauna and flora and discovering the “Divers’ paradise” on the bottom of Ustica, in the heart of Italy’s first marine reserve. You will behold images and colour combinations that you thought were pure science fiction with your own eyes.

On the surface, however, the sea works together with the wind to playfully push you towards kitesurfing: try it in the beautiful setting of Stagnone in Marsala!

The Sicilian natural scenery offers an original and fully comprehensive solutions for any level of fatigue, for all ages and for previous background of physical activity, from those who want to get fit to those who want to push their limits. Choose between a walk with your children   and the extremes of climbing and ski mountaineering. There are challenges with a very wide range of difficulty levels, from golf, which you can play in both the west and east of Sicily, to a highly evocative bike trip, from a day spent feeling truly free on a sailing boat to a horseback ride on Etna or crossing the Argimusco.

The hinterland of Sicily is the heart of the island, it is a little-known area. Here time flows naturally, and the contact with the locals is wonderful. It is a land rich in cultural expressions, millenary traditions, archaeological, architectural and naturalistic treasures. Many places make you want to stay forever.

Let’s discover the slopes of Mount Etna or the Simeto Nature Reserve : this area is rich in lava caves, waterfalls, rapids and small lakes. The Piana degli Albanesi Lake , on the other hand, is an area teeming with life. From the Bosco Della Ficuzza , we find ourselves in the heart of the Parco delle Madonie , dotted with small towns where time flows slowly and quietly.

Enna is the highest town in Italy, and from here you can enjoy a panoramic view over the whole island. Caltanissetta has a historical centre full of Renaissance and Baroque monuments.

Sutera is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The Teatro di Andromeda in Santo Stefano Quisquina is a magical place surrounded by the pastoral landscape of the Monti Sicani .

Despite being in the centre of Sicily, far from the coast, you can enjoy the incredible and unique view of the Aeolian Islands . You will feel like you have just completed a journey into the most unusual and authentic Sicily.

Families and Children

Sicily is the perfect place to spend a carefree and fun holiday with your family and children.

Here you can travel and walk with children in total comfort and safety , discovering beautiful and unexpected natural settings . You can travel on foot, by bicycle or on the back of friendly donkeys . There are many ways to discover a land rich in hidden treasures, observing fauna and flora of rare beauty.

We recommend the best beaches to enjoy the wonderful Sicilian sea and spend your days among sandcastles, velvet seabeds and curious little fish. If you are lucky enough, you may even see a specimen of Caretta Caretta turtle !

In the Valley of the Temples , children can become budding archaeologists. They will be provided with the right equipment and guided by experts in discovering ancient remains. The Ludum is the first science museum in Sicily where you can learn what laws regulate the Universe.

You can discover the rare botanical wonders hidden around the island together with your family. You can visit corners of paradise such as the Bioparco di Sicilia . Or you can test your courage in the Adventure Parks , suspended in the air amidst the greenery.

Another unforgettable experience is driving along the writers’ road . Follow in the footsteps of Charles V on a historical route. Have fun with the children by flying colourful kites and tasting Aztec chocolate . Be inspired and choose the experience that perfectly suits you and your family.

Art and Culture

Some treasures do not need to be touched to perceive their rarity. However, in this triangular and evocative region, you will constantly come across the signs left by history, the passage of man and his creativity.

Get ready to discover how Sicily can amaze you. Sicily will surprise you when you least expect it. As you stroll along the streets, you will come across the works of contemporary street art : it is intense, immediate and universal. Looking out, over the infinity of the Sicilian hinterland, from the Andromeda Theatre, you will see a mystical and ancestral place. You will feel like floating in sidereal space. You have the chance to visit artisan’s workshops , guardians of traditions handed down from father to son.

Some customs are very ancient, such as the working of obsidian or the unique and precious Mediterranean coral . These traditions keep alive arts and knowledge of inestimable value, they are World Heritage Site. This heritage also includes the Sicilian puppets , protagonists of the Opera dei Pupi . Or the art of dry stone walls that embellish landscapes with their ancient beauty.

And what about archaeological sites ? Of Sicily’s 7 UNESCO sites , some are among the most beautiful archaeological sites of all time. Examples, Pantalica , the Valley of the Temples  and the magnificent Theatre of Taormina . They all bear witness to a glorious past in bright colours just waiting to be discovered. In Sicily, you will find countless places of culture , beautiful theatres and museums, artistic routes and endless opportunities to breathe in art en plein air. You will cherish this journey in the depths of your heart, along with your most precious memories.

DISCOVER THE  AREA

Things not to be missed

Sicily for all: accessible tourism

SICILY, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD

to the discovery of an immense and always surprising heritage

EXPERIENCES AND  ITINERARIES

Travel tips and advice

European Path E1

Eastern sicily and places not to be missed, via francigena mazarense, scopello, san vito lo capo, marsala and surroundings, street art in messina, a journey to the places that inspired quasimodo poetry, filicudi – capo graziano, southern castles between syracuse and ragusa.

UNESCO HERITAGE IN SICILY

From the seven wonders of the ancient world to the seven diamonds

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM, SPORT AND ENTERTAINMENT – SICILY

Via Notarbartolo, 9 – 90141 – Palermo

Tourist Informations

This website is not for profit, anyone who sees a possible infringement of copyright can report it and we will promptly remove the specific content.

VISIT SICILY

ACCESSIBILITY

• Toggle High Contrast
• Toggle Font size

© 2022 Regione Siciliana – All rights reserved

VAT number: 02711070827 – Tax Code: 80012000826 – Privacy

DATA PROCESSING

Privacy preview.

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.

13 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.

AMAZING info, and helpful tips. Planning a trip to sicily, for 14 days aiming for minimum driving. Landing in Catania-bus to Taormina-bus to Ortiga-car rent from Syracuse-Noto-Cefalu and fly from Palermo. Your thoughts? What would you change? Any tips will be appreciated . Thanks Suzanne

Thanks so much, Suzanne!

Sounds like a very reasonable itinerary, and I think you’ll have a great time! Definitely double-check the bus schedules as you go, especially if you happen to be traveling on any Sundays.

If you have time, I’d visit Ragusa and Modica when you’re in Noto (you may already be planning that, of course).

I think you’ll have an amazing trip–enjoy a cannolo for us!

Hi, Flying into Palermo and flying back to Rome (would like to spend at least 1 day in Rome). With that in mind, the top places to see and duration for a 10 days which include the arrival date. Thank you very much :)

Hi Claudia,

Are you looking to spend that time traveling overland from Palermo to Rome, or are you wanting to spend most of your time in Sicily and then fly to Rome at the end of your trip? There are so many possibilities!

Either way, I’d recommend 2 days in Rome instead of one in most cases–it’s a enormous city, and one of our favorites in the world! We have itinerary suggestions for both one and 2 days in Rome, if you want to see how much you can cover: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-rome-in-a-day/

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

8 things to know before going to Sicily

Mar 1, 2024 • 5 min read

Sicily has a ton of personality and a few unique quirks – here's what you need to know © Jimena Roquero / Stocksy

Sicily is an island of mythic proportions, highly regarded for its natural beauty and the deep well of history it embodies in its ancient archaeological sites and luxe palazzos. A proud triangle, the island has three coastlines and two island chains and is home to the most active volcano in Europe, the indomitable Mount Etna .

In pursuit of claiming my Italian citizenship, I spent five summery months living in the Sicilian heartland, exploring the coast and ruins and immersing myself in the daily life of small-town Sicily. Preceded by its mafia history (both the fictional and the real), it is often misunderstood by visitors coming to the island with Godfather-inspired expectations, but there is a lot more to discover in Sicily beyond the stereotypes.

Here’s what you need to know before visiting.

1. Fly in and out of two different airports

The most efficient way to plan a tour through Sicily is to fly into Palermo and leave from Catania , or vice versa. Palermo and Catania are the island’s two largest cities and are located at opposite ends of the island. Each has its own airport with direct flights to the mainland and other European cities. There is also a small airport in Trapani, on the west coast – ideal if you want to visit the Egadi Islands – but here you’ll only find flights to and from mainland Italian airports.

2. Public transport in Sicily is not for the weak

Traveling by train through Sicily is convenient if you stick to the coasts and plan to travel out of main hubs like Palermo, Messina or Catania. However, the schedules are not always reliable, so you should plan plenty of buffer time into your itinerary if you choose to do Sicily without a car. Many of Sicily’s major destinations, like beachy San Vito Lo Capo and the historical hilltop town of Erice , are inaccessible by train, but you can get there by bus. Forgoing a car rental in Sicily is doable, but your trip will be much easier with a set of wheels.

3. Plan to move around

Sicily’s major attractions are dispersed throughout the island, so you will feel limited if you choose one city as your base for the whole trip. There are so many wonderful towns and islands, beautiful hotels, charming bed-and-breakfasts and a vast array of sights – from the ruins of Agrigento to the volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands , and all the historical villages and sunny vineyards in between. 

4. Understand the real history of the mafia

Sure, you can buy plenty of Godfather merchandise when you get to Sicily, but you will have a deeper appreciation of the reality of the island’s mafia history if you take the time to understand it as a tragic story, not one to be idealized. 

In Palermo, there is a free museum at the No Mafia Memorial , which details the history of organized crime in Sicily and tells the story of Falcone and Borsellino, two heroic judges who were assassinated during the mafia wars of the 1990s. In Corleone – not actually where the movie was filmed – you can also visit CIDMA , a documentation and education center that dives deeper into the saga of the Maxi Trial, a three-year criminal trial that convicted over 300 people involved in organized crime.

5. Italy’s dining dogmas still apply, but one popular breakfast will surprise you

If this isn’t your first time in Italy, you probably already know where Italians stand when it comes to pineapple on pizza, cappuccinos after lunch and chicken in pasta – they will not hear of it. Sicily follows these same rules, but one tradition is likely to delight your inner child: ice cream for breakfast. Italian breakfasts are always sweet, but Sicilians take it to the next level by enjoying either gelato or granita, a type of shaved ice, sandwiched between a fluffy brioche bun first thing in the morning.

6. Sicily’s multicultural history makes it a unique destination

Separated from the mainland by the Strait of Messina, this region of southern Italy has its own cultural identity thanks to its long history of being conquered and influenced by rulers from all over the world. Each culture, from the Greeks and Romans to the Arabs and Crown of Aragon, left its mark in some way. These influences can be found in food – like Sicily's love of couscous – and urban planning and architecture. Whether you’re walking in a city with ancient Greek foundations like Ortigia or delighting in the Baroque streets of Noto , you’ll feel the difference in style but an overall ambiance that is still distinctly Sicilian.

7. You can drink the tap water

Like the rest of Italy, you’ll find many public fountains with free water that is safe to drink unless otherwise marked as “non-potable.” Unless you're advised otherwise, tap water in Sicily is good to drink, but you will find many locals prefer the taste of bottled water. Like elsewhere in Italy and Europe, if you ask for water at a restaurant, they will bring you a bottle and charge you for it. However, if you order an espresso at a cafe bar, it usually comes with a small cup of water on the side to cleanse your palette before you sip.

8. Sicily is the frontier of Europe’s migrant crisis

Ever the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Sicily is one of the main arrival points for refugees seeking asylum in Europe. This is a particularly large issue for the distant Italian island of Lampedusa , which is closer to the coast of Africa than it is to Sicily. The high number of arrivals has at times overwhelmed select areas of Sicily, but in my experience, the effect on the tourism industry has been minimal. Still, it’s wise to educate yourself about these current events before you arrive.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Aug 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Tunisia is a captivating destination with its rich history, stunning Mediterranean beaches, vibrant culture and ancient ruins.

Aug 16, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 13, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Jun 13, 2024 • 8 min read

May 24, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Home » Sicily Tours Packages » 14-Day Sicily and Malta Small Group Tour

Home » Sicily Tours Packages » 14-Day Sicily and Malta Small Group Tour

14-Day Sicily and Malta Small Group Tour

Join up to 22 like-minded travelers on this all-inclusive small group Italy tour to Sicily and Malta.

The 14-day Sicily and Malta tour  itinerary includes diverse activities including tours of churches, palaces, winery visit & even a homemade pizza cooking class. Visit Sicily’s highlights including Palermo and its Norman culture, Agrigento and its Ancient Greek Temples, Ragusa and its Baroque Architecture, the resort town of Taormina, and much more. Then travel to Malta to Valletta and Gozo.

For more about this Sicily and Malta tour package submit the form or call ItalianTourism.us 800.227.1577.

Sicily and Malta Tour Package Highlights:

• Visit the Palatine Chapel in the Norman Palace with its interior of glittering 12th-century Byzantine mosaics
• Tour the old city of Palermo, featuring an incredible mix of architectural styles
• Discover Phoenician Motya with its famous Charioteer by boat
• Visit Mazara del Vallo, with its Arabian style quarters and famous dancing Satyr
• Make your own classic pizza from fresh ingredients!
• Discover Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, the best-preserved remains outside of Greece
• View the Roman Villa del Casale in Piazza Armerina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit the trendy resort town of Taormina
• Ascend the lava-crusted slopes of Mt. Etna – one of the most active volcanoes in Europe!
• Discover the island of Ortigia, the historical center of the city of Siracusa
• Visit the Greek Theater and the Ear of Dionysus in the Siracusa Archaeological Park
• See the baroque architectural jewels of Noto and Ragusa
• Discover the rich history of Valletta, the European Capital of Culture for 2018
• Explore the “Three Cities” Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea areas of Malta
• Marvel at the awe-inspiring megalithic Temples of Ggantija in Gozo

Sicily and Malta Vacation Package Includes:

• Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
• Flights New York-Palermo, Luqa-New York. Other departure cities available. Submit form with date of preferred departure for air itinerary and airfare.
• Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
• Intra-flight Catania-Luqa
• Click to review 12 nights First Class accommodations
• Italian city hotel taxes & Maltese eco-contribution tax
• Hotel porterage
• All transfers and sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
• 24 meals: 12 buffet breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners
• Wine is included with lunch and dinner
• Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
• Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
• Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
• Active itinerary with unique cultural features

Accommodations

Sicily and malta tour with venice accommodations.

2 nights Palermo – Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa 2 nights Marsala Area – Baglio Oneto Resort & Wines Trapani 1 night Agrigento – Colleverde Park Hotel 2 nights Ragusa – San Giorgio Palace Hotel or Mediterraneo Palace 2 nights Catania – UNA Hotel Palace 3 nights Sliema – The Victoria Hotel Sliema

All tour accommodations are 4-star first class hotels.

Click here for vacation itinerary

Check the box next to the small group Italy tour to Malta and Sicily that you would like to join.

• Land with Air
• Preferred Airport *
• Tue Sep 10 2024 $5,549
• Thu Sep 12 2024 $5,449
• Sat Sep 14 2024 $5,599
• Tue Sep 17 2024 $5,599
• Thu Sep 19 2024 $5,449
• Sat Sep 21 2024 $5,499
• Tue Sep 24 2024 $5,599
• Thu Sep 26 2024 $5,499
• Sat Sep 28 2024 $5,549
• Tue Oct 1 2024 $5,649
• Thu Oct 17 2024 $5,349
• Sat, Mar 29, 2025 $5,099
• Tue, Apr 1, 2025 $5,149
• Sat, Apr 5, 2025 $5,199
• Thu, Apr 10, 2025 $5,149
• Thu, Apr 24, 2025 $5,149
• Thu, May 1, 2025 $5,349
• Sat, May 3, 2025 $5,449
• Tue, May 6, 2025 $5,349
• Thu, May 8, 2025 $5,349
• Thu, May 15, 2025 $5,349
• Sat, May 17, 2025 $5,449
• Tue, May 20, 2025 $5,349
• Tue, May 27, 2025 $5,349
• Thu, May 29, 2025 $5,349
• Tue, Jun 3, 2025 $5,149
• Sat, Jun 7, 2025 $5,249
• Thu, Jun 12, 2025 $5,199
• Sat, Jun 14, 2025 $5,249
• Sat, Aug 30, 2025 $4,999
• Tue, Sep 2, 2025 $5,599
• Thu, Sep 4, 2025 $5,549
• Tue, Sep 9, 2025 $5,599
• Thu, Sep 11, 2025 $5,549
• Sat, Sep 13, 2025 $5,649
• Tue, Sep 16, 2025 $5,599
• Thu, Sep 18, 2025 $5,549
• Sat, Sep 20, 2025 $5,649
• Tue, Sep 23, 2025 $5,599
• Sat, Sep 27, 2025 $5,649
• Thu, Oct 2, 2025 $5,299
• Sat, Oct 4, 2025 $5,449
• Tue, Oct 7, 2025 $5,349
• Thu, Oct 9, 2025 $5,299
• Tue, Oct 14, 2025 $5,349
• Thu, Oct 16, 2025 $5,299
• Sat, Oct 18, 2025 $5,449
• Tue, Oct 21, 2025 $5,349
• Tue Sep 3 2024 $7329*
• Thu Sep 5 2024 $7369*
• Tue Sep 10 2024 $7259*
• Thu Sep 12 2024 $7279*
• Sat Sep 14 2024 $7409*
• Tue Sep 17 2024 $7139*
• Thu Sep 19 2024 $7029*
• Sat Sep 21 2024 $7039*
• Sat Sep 28 2024 $7089*
• Tue Oct 1 2024 $6859*
• Thu Oct 17 2024 $6839*
• Sat, Mar 29, 2025 $6439*
• Tue, Apr 1, 2025 $6659*
• Sat, Apr 5, 2025 $6659*
• Thu, Apr 10, 2025 $6659*
• Thu, Apr 24, 2025 $6659*
• Thu, May 1, 2025 $7449*
• Sat, May 3, 2025 $7599*
• Tue, May 6, 2025 $7449*
• Thu, May 8, 2025 $7449*
• Thu, May 15, 2025 $7449*
• Sat, May 17, 2025 $7599*
• Tue, May 20, 2025 $7449*
• Tue, May 27, 2025 $7449*
• Thu, May 29, 2025 $7449*
• Tue, Jun 3, 2025 $7349*
• Sat, Jun 7, 2025 $7499*
• Thu, Jun 12, 2025 $7399*
• Sat, Jun 14, 2025 $7499*
• Sat, Aug 30, 2025 $6849*
• Tue, Sep 2, 2025 $7599*
• Thu, Sep 4, 2025 $7549*
• Tue, Sep 9, 2025 $7599*
• Thu, Sep 11, 2025 $7549*
• Sat, Sep 13, 2025 $7649*
• Tue, Sep 16, 2025 $7599*
• Thu, Sep 18, 2025 $7549*
• Sat, Sep 20, 2025 $7649*
• Tue, Sep 23, 2025 $7599*
• Sat, Sep 27, 2025 $7649*
• Thu, Oct 2, 2025 $7299*
• Sat, Oct 4, 2025 $7449*
• Tue, Oct 7, 2025 $7349*
• Thu, Oct 9, 2025 $7299*
• Tue, Oct 14, 2025 $7349*
• Thu, Oct 16, 2025 $7299*
• Sat, Oct 18, 2025 $7449*
• Tue, Oct 21, 2025 $7349*
• Travelers per room 1 2 3 4 5
• Special Request
• Name * First Last

Sicily and Malta Tour Itinerary

Day 1, saturday – depart for italy.

Depart for Italy

DAY 2, Sunday – Arrive in Palermo

Welcome to Sicily! Arrive in Palermo, the energetic capital of Sicily, and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest and relax before tonight’s orientation meeting with your Tour Manager on the exciting tour that awaits you, followed by a Welcome Dinner with the group Overnight: Palermo Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Monday – Palatine Chapel and Palermo City Tour

Start your tour of Palermo with the visit of the Palatine Chapel, a UNESCO Heritage Site, located inside the complex of Palazzo dei Normanni. Its glittering gold mosaics, complemented by inlaid marble floors and wooden ceilings, reflect Norman Sicily’s cultural complexity. Continue with a walking tour including the Cathedral, Piazza dei Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, and the church of Casa Professa, an expression of the Baroque style in its most amazing form. Visit a Puppet Theater, a traditional form of Sicilian entertainment that dates back to the 15th century and is still alive today. Discover Palermo on your own with its winding alleyways and colorful back streets during free time Overnight: Palermo Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Tuesday – Segesta, Farm Lunch, Erice

Morning drive through western Sicily where you will view the famous Doric Temple of Segesta rising high on a hill, constructed in the 5th century B.C., one of the greatest examples of this style of architecture. Enjoy lunch with an olive oil tasting at a local farm. Continue to the mountaintop Erice, a wonderfully preserved medieval town with breathtaking views and a great historical presence. Walk along the cobbled streets lined with superb examples of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture, home of the “Ericina” ceramic handicraft art. Continue to your hotel where dinner will be served Overnight: Marsala Area Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Wednesday – Mazara Kasbah Maze & Dancing Satyr, Salt Mines, and Motya Charioteer

This morning, drive to Mazara, walk the Kasbah maze of streets and view the statue of the Dancing Satyr, a rare example of Greek bronze sculpture, found by chance in 1998 by a fishing boat. After free time in the town, continue to the salt plant area before boarding your boat to cruise on the so-called Stagnone to the island of Motya, dating back to the Phoenician time. Here, you will see the beautiful and unique marble statue of the Motya Charioteer. It is believed to be the work of a leading Greek artist made in the period following their defeat of the Persians. It was found inside Phoenician fortifications, which were quickly erected before Dionysios I of Syracuse invaded and sacked Motya in 397 BC. End your day with dinner facing the sea. Return to your hotel Overnight: Marsala Area Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 6, Thursday – Valley of Temples

This morning, view the stone quarries of Cusa before enjoying lunch with local specialties. Continue to discover Agrigento’s celebrated Valley of the Temples in the afternoon, the largest and best preserved temple ruins outside of mainland Greece. Tour this magnificent archaeological park, built between 430 and 510 B.C., all majestically positioned in the same area on rocky crests south of modern day Agrigento Overnight: Agrigento Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Friday – Make your own Pizza and Piazza Armerina

Today, enjoy making your own Pizza using fresh ingredients in Licata. After tasting your own creation, travel to Piazza Armerina to view the intricate examples of Roman mosaics at the famous Roman Villa del Casale, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These extraordinarily vivid mosaics deal with numerous subjects, ranging from Homeric escapades and mythological scenes to portrayals of daily life. The Villa itself was rediscovered in the 19th century after being almost completely covered by a landslide. Continue on to check into your hotel in Ragusa Overnight: Ragusa Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

DAY 8, Saturday – Ragusa-Ibla, Modica, Aromatic Herb & Plant Gardens

This morning, indulge in the baroque atmosphere of Ragusa-Ibla, with its breathtaking sights of houses, churches, and palaces that seem layered one on top of the other. After lunch, travel to Modica, known all over the world for its chocolate production. Continue to visit a garden of aromatic herbs & plants. Learn how the herbs are grown and their uses while trying to recognize them! Overnight: Ragusa Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9, Sunday – Noto, Siracusa with its Neapolis & Ortigia

Today, travel to Noto, a wonderful Baroque town, where you will have time to wander around and discover one of the most spectacular urban settlements. Arrive in Siracusa to admire the “Old City,” also known as Città Vecchia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the island of Ortygia. After free time for lunch, continue with a visit to the archaeological area of the Neapolis and get a glimpse of Siracusa as it was in ancient times with its Greek theater, the remains of Roman Amphitheater, and the “Ear of Dionysius,” an awe-inspiring artificial limestone cave renowned for its outstanding acoustics. Travel to Catania, a wonderful combination of ancient and modern, under the shadow of Mt. Etna Overnight: Catania Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 10, Monday – Mt. Etna Summit & Taormina

Begin the day with a visit to the lava-crusted slopes of Mt. Etna, which dominates the scenery and is the most active volcano in Europe! Ascend via cable car and buses to reach the altitude of 9,000 feet; step carefully on the varied layers of lava which have solidified over the centuries. Learn about Etna’s impact on the surrounding area and its unique geology. After you’lll depart toward Taormina with a stop to try local street food for lunch. In Taormina you will enjoy a walk on the main Corso, followed by free time to enjoy the city. Perhaps visit the massive Greek Theater, from where you can enjoy remarkable panoramas of the city and countryside. Return to Catania in the late afternoon Overnight: Catania Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

DAY 11, Tuesday – Arrival in Malta, Valetta Sightseeing

This morning, early departure to Malta. Begin your discovery of Malta with a visit to Valleta. The town was built by Knights of St John in the 16th century and maintains the same feel with its gardens and baroque art & architecture. Afterwards, head across Grand Harbor to discover the historical area known as the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Cospicua & Senglea. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel Overnight: Sliema Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 12, Wednesday – Explore Gozo

Today, you will start the day early in order to visit Malta’s sister island of Gozo, an island where time stood still, where traditions and customs form part of the daily life of the islanders. Gozo is greener, more rural, and offers beautiful scenic views, having most of the population still following their forefathers’ trades of farming and fishing. During this excursion, visit the Temple of Ggantija, which is the only major prehistoric site on the Island of Gozo. The temple is among the oldest and best preserved in the world. Continue your visit to Ta’ Pinu Church, a national shrine, picturesque Xlendi Bay, and the Citadella in Victoria, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon, visit a farm in Gozo and enjoy a Mediterranean tasting of wine and delicacies followed by lunch. Return to Sliema and spend the rest of your day at leisure Overnight: Sliema Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

DAY 13, Thursday – Mdina & Rabat, Home-Hosted Lunch

Your tour today will first take you to Rabat to explore St Paul’s Catacombs, which feature an extensive underground system of tombs that date back to the medieval period. Continue to Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta, located in the central part of the island. This walled city dates back to prehistoric times and has witnessed Malta’s major historical events, having a strategic position on one of the land´s highest plateaus. During your walk in the silent city, visit the Mdina Cathedral and the imposing bastions that allow you to admire panoramic views of most of the island. Proceed to Naxxar, the oldest village on the island, to visit Palazzo Parisio, a unique 19th century palace with splendid gardens. Afterward, return to your hotel in Sliema. Tonight, enjoy dinner together and bid farewell to your Tour Manager and newfound friends Overnight: Sliema Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 14, Friday – Depart Malta

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight Meals: Breakfast

Click Sicily tours  to view all Italy vacations to southern Italy and Sicily.

To book your Sicily and Malta Tour Package submit form or call 800-227-1577

Rome, Florence, Venice

Sicily Tours

Northern Italy Tours

Amalfi Coast Tours

Southern Italy Tours

* When all-inclusive Italy vacation prices are quoted to include airfare the price includes fuel surcharges, airport taxes, Italy airport transfers and fees. All prices are per person based on twin occupancy. Italy tours with air & land tour prices apply from the gateway airport. Prices will vary from alternative gateway airports or cities and may be higher. The total price will be emailed to you prior to any deposit being required. Airline baggage fees may apply . Please review all terms and conditions before booking.

Home • About Us • Contact Us • Terms & Conditions • Frequently Asked Questions • Privacy Policy

© 2003 – 2025 ItalianTourism.us — 1730 Sweetbay Way, Hollywood, FL 33019 — 800.227.1577 All Inclusive Italy Vacation Packages and Italy Tours with Airfare | 2024 Italy Tour Packages Florida Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST41458 • California Seller of Travel No. 2090937-50 • Washington UBID No. 603189022

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

Colours of Sicily

149 reviews

Available Dates

Your itinerary

Dates & prices

9-Day Sicily Sightseeing Tour

9 days, 1 country and 10 cities

Accommodation

8 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

Vibrant palette of colors come alive on your tour of Sicily. Sip local wine on the slopes of Mount Etna, wander the chic streets of Taormina and meet the locals in colorful towns and villages. Top it all off with a sweet treat – all the Modican chocolate you can lay your hands on.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

Trip code: 

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

9 days itinerary trip from Palermo to Catania visiting 1 country and 10 cities

Download itinerary

Print itinerary

Expand all days

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Palermo, Monreale, Valley of the Temples, Ragusa, Syracuse and Taormina 

Discover Modica 

Visit Monreale Norman Cathedral, Erice, Infersa Mill in Marsala, Valley of the Temples, the Syracuse Archaeological Museum, Ortygia and the Greek Theater in Taormina

View Mount Etna 

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Frequently asked questions

Your search for ""

What is a definite departure?

A departure is shown as 'Definite Departure' once it has reached a minimum number of guests. That particular departure will definitely run, barring any extraordinary circumstances. We update these regularly, and you can book any departure. While it is highly unlikely a departure doesn't meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made if this is the case. If there are ever any changes to your departure, we will contact you.

How can I book flights for my tour? What about extra hotel nights?

You can add flights and extra hotel nights directly through Trafalgar, so that everything is taken care of, leaving you to relax and enjoy your tour. If you're booking online, once you've selected your travel dates and room type, you'll be offered an option to add extra hotel nights and flights. Alternatively, you can call us to book and one of our travel experts can advise on your options.

How much is the deposit for a Trafalgar tour?

On most of our departures, you can secure your trip today with a low deposit from just $200.

What are the different kinds of experiences available?

Each Trafalgar tour has a carefully-selected range of included experiences to help immerse yourself in a destination. But did you know that every tour also has a Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience? Be My Guest Experiences are the original local travel experience, letting you step into the lives of hosts who will share stories about their families and communities. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences that give back to the local communities, which support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours also include a selection of Optional Experiences which are available for an additional cost, allowing you to make your trip your own.

Can I join a Trafalgar tour as a solo traveller?

A guided tour is the perfect way to solo travel. You'll meet like-minded people traveling with Trafalgar, and you'll relax knowing you can travel with ease, forming genuine connections as you go. To find out more solo room types and pricing select your preferred departure date and continue to the next page.

Where can I find room options?

Once you've selected your preferred departure date, on the next step add the number of guests to review the available room options and find the one that suits you best.

How can I apply my past guest discount?

It's great to have you back on board - the loyalty of our guests means everything to us. To access your Global Tour Rewards discount, please confirm the name and date of your past trip once you've added your passenger details. The discount will be applied before you book.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELER REVIEWS

Colours of Sicily trip reviews

#ttcoloursofsicily.

Real moments from real travelers, creating the greatest travel stories they’ll ever tell

Or search for something else

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

10 Reasons to Visit Sicily on Your Next Trip to Italy

From the lively capital of Palermo to the hilltop city of Taormina, Sicily is finally being discovered for the magical destination that it is.

Italy's classic cities of Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan have long attracted tourists from around the world. All the while, Sicilians quietly produced wine, dined on superb seafood, and grew almonds, pistachios, olives, and citrus. Word has been getting out, though, about the island's picturesque coastline, historic towns, and abundant attractions.

From the lively capital of Palermo and the hilltop city of Taormina to Trapani in the west, the large tricornered island off the toe of Italy's boot is bursting with magical — and diverse — destinations. Sicily offers beaches, mountains, active volcanoes, and even snow skiing. Well-preserved archeological sites, cathedrals, and buildings show evidence of its history as a home for Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and other peoples. The indigenous Sicanians, about whom little is known, are thought to have occupied the island as far back as 8000 B.C., giving Sicily its name.

The yellow and red flag of Sicily depicts a three-legged woman with the head of the mythical Medusa, called the "Trinacria." The three legs symbolize the three corners of Sicily, and, according to legend, the three mythological nymphs who created the island. You'll see this symbol everywhere on the island, from its flag to the souvenirs you'll want to take home as memories of your extraordinary visit to Sicily.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Delicious Food

Sicily has its own style of Italian cuisine; its location and history influence its most popular dishes. It's not unusual to see couscous on a menu, reflecting Arabic tastes, as well as pasta served with ingredients that reflect each locale's specialty. Delicious fresh seafood is plentiful — the island has more than 600 miles of coastline — and sardines are served on their own or in the flavorful pasta con le sarde, which includes fennel, pine nuts, and raisins. Pasta alla Norma features tomato, eggplant, and salted ricotta cheese. Fried rice balls called arancini are popular snacks, and a favorite antipasto is caponata, a luscious mixture of tomatoes, capers, and eggplant.

Sicilians love desserts and are known to make the best cannoli — fried pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta. Granita, crushed ice flavored with fruit, almond, or coffee, and cassata , sponge cake with liqueur, ricotta, and marzipan (almond paste) are also top picks. Frutta Martorana, a Sicilian specialty, are miniature fruits and vegetables embellished by hand. Sicily's almonds, pistachios, and citrus appear in desserts like gelato and biscotti. And where else would you encounter the summertime breakfast treat brioche con gelato — gelato in a brioche bun?

Stunning Archaeological Sites

Sicily is home to some of the world's best-preserved examples of Greek and Roman temples, structures, and art. In the southwest, Agrigento's Valley of the Temples includes the nearly intact Temple of Concordia and columns remaining from several other Greek temples. On Sicily's southeast coast, Siracusa — once the leading city of Greece — a massive amphitheater built around the fifth century B.C. is still used for theatrical presentations. A third-century Roman amphitheater still stands in the area. On the nearby island of Ortigia are the remains of the Temple of Apollo, built in the seventh century B.C.

Farther north in the coastal hilltop city of Taormina, the Teatro Greco, dating to the third century B.C., was later enlarged by the Romans. Today, the theater is home to film festivals, concerts, and plays, with the audience enjoying views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna along with the performances. In Segesta, a striking Doric temple has stood for more than 2,000 years near a massive amphitheater. Selinunte, once a major Greek city on the south coast, is another impressive archaeological site. The Regional Archaeological Museum in Palermo contains historical Sicilian sculpture and artifacts.

Luxurious Beaches

Surrounded by the Tyrrhenian, Ionian, and Mediterranean seas, Sicily boasts miles of varied and beautiful coastline, so visitors will find something they love, whether it's secluded spot or a lively resort. Near Taormina, Isola Bella features a gorgeous beach, and it's common for lidos, or beach clubs, to offer umbrellas, chairs, beverages, and dining. A cable car takes visitors from central Taormina to beaches at Mazzarò. The sea is clear and warm, but the sand is pebbly, so beach shoes are suggested. Nearby Giardini Naxos has both lidos and public areas.

Palermo's beaches on the north shore, including Mondello, Magaggiari, and Cefalù, feature sandy shores. About 40 miles east of Palermo, Cefalù, once a fishing village, offers several beaches, cafés, restaurants, hotels, and nightlife. Near Ragusa, along the southeastern shore, popular beaches include Fontane Bianche, San Lorenzo, and Marina di Ragusa.

Distinctive Wines

Sicilian wines are increasingly popular, and winemaking on the island dates back millennia to the Greeks. Marsala, in western Sicily, produces fortified wines by the same name, categorized by their age and residual sugar. In the Mount Etna area of eastern Sicily, volcanic soil and a favorable climate lead to excellent wines like Carricante (white) and Etna Rosso (red) made mostly from Nerello Mascalese grapes. The widely planted native grape, Nero d'Avola, produces dark, robust, complex wines.

White wines, sometimes called Etna Bianco, are created primarily from the Carricante grape. Catarratto, the most planted grape, produces dry wines. Grillo, another dry white with medium body, is a lovely accompaniment for seafood. Sample local varieties and choose some favorites to look for when you arrive back home so you can relive your Sicilian experience.

Rich Culture and Traditions

The two-wheeled, horse-drawn cart painted with bright colors depicting religious scenes, flowers, and intricate designs is a recognizable symbol of Sicily. Originally used for transportation, the carts were pulled by horses also decorated with ribbons, bells, or plumes. Skilled craftsmen built and painted the carts, seen today at festivals, museums, and in miniature versions for souvenirs.

Sicily's cities and towns host festive events throughout the year, with many honoring patron saints, holidays, or seasons. In Agrigento, the springtime Almond Blossom Festival features 10 days of traditional costumes, music, and parades. The Sagra della Ricotta every April in Vizzini, one of Sicily's oldest cities, celebrates the cheese used in cannoli, cassata, and savory dishes. The Feast of Santa Rosalia in Palermo is a major event in mid-July with music, processions, and fireworks. Easter season brings carnival and Holy Week processions that show the authentic nature of Sicily's culture.

Beautiful Islands

Several groups of islands off Sicily's shores offer some of the most spectacular beaches in the area. The Pelagie Islands are southwest of Sicily in the Mediterranean. Lampedusa, the largest of these islands, features white-sand beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The Egadi Islands off Sicily's west coast are accessible for day trips from Trapani. Favignana, the largest of the Egadis, is home to luxury hotels, beaches, and popular diving spots.

Off Sicily's northern coast in the Tyrrhenian Sea are the volcanic Aeolian Islands. Lipari is the largest and most popular with tourists who enjoy its hot springs and historic architecture. Small, but also a tourist favorite, is Panarea. Stromboli features an active volcano, and many visitors take guided hikes to its summit. The island of Salina is known for its delicious capers and mountain peak. Off Sicily's west coast, volcanic Pantelleria is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with fumaroles, mud baths, and agricultural products that include olives, grapes, and their well-known capers.

Impressive Cathedrals and Architecture

The Cathedral of Monreale , near Palermo, is a stunning example of Norman architecture begun around 1171 by King William II of Sicily. Notable for its mosaics — many made of pure gold, — its marble floor, and the inlaid detail of the columns in the cloister, it is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. On Siracusa's historic Ortigia island, the seventh-century Cathedral of Syracuse was built on the site of a Greek Doric temple whose columns are still visible on the cathedral's exterior. An expansive piazza enhances the cathedral's facade, an impressive view from one of the many cafés lining the area.

The hilltop Cathedral of Cefalù dates to 1131 when King Roger II began construction. The Cathedral of Catania , dedicated to St. Agatha, was originally built in the 11th century on the site of ancient Roman baths. After damage by earthquakes and fires, it was rebuilt in 1711 with a Baroque-style facade. Sicily's cities of Palermo, Noto, Ragusa, and Modica all offer spectacular cathedrals in a variety of architectural styles.

Villa Romana del Casale , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates to about the fourth century and contains an extensive collection of Roman artwork and mosaics. Set in the interior of Sicily, the villa is open for tours.

Welcoming Accommodations

Sicily is resplendent in top-notch accommodations . From five-star resorts and exclusive villas to casual beach hotels, you'll find the right place to stay in Sicily. Verdura Resort on the south coast offers white-sand beaches, golf, a spa, and luxurious accommodations. Therasia Resort on the island of Vulcano features an expansive spa, pool, and views of the other Aeolians. The Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina is a classic, with elegant rooms, gardens, and views of Mount Etna and the sea. Or book a grand villa overlooking the sea for a group or family.

Hotels in major cities include the boutique Villa Carlotta and the San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel in Taormina, the Monaci delle Terre Nere near Mount Etna, Grand Hotel Wagner in Palermo, and the Baglio Sorìa in Trapani. For a different experience, enjoy the environment and comfort of a farmhouse stay. Choose a locale by the sea, mountains, or amid olive trees and grape vines. Farmhouse lodging can range from rustic to ultra-luxurious.

International airports in Palermo and Catania receive flights from most cities in Europe. Eurostar trains from Rome and Naples and other cities in Italy arrive in Sicily via a ferry across the Strait of Messina, an enjoyable trip. From the Italian ports of Naples, Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Villa San Giovanni, ships sail to Palermo, Catania, and Messina. It's even possible to drive from the mainland and other European countries, taking the ferry to Messina.

Related Articles

• All Destinations
• Africa overview
• South Africa
• Central America overview
• El Salvador
• Central Asia overview
• Turkmenistan
• Europe overview
• Bosnia Herzegovina
• Czech Republic
• North Macedonia
• Scandinavia and the Nordics
• Switzerland
• Far East overview
• Indian Ocean overview
• Indian Subcontinent overview
• Middle East overview
• Israel and the OPT
• United Arab Emirates
• Polar overview
• South America overview
• Ecuador and the Galápagos
• French Guiana
• Ecuador and Galápagos

Wherever you choose to travel with Cox & Kings, you can travel with confidence.

• Highlights of South Africa
• Ultimate Tour: In the Footsteps of the Great Migration
• Madagascar Wildlife Adventure
• Highlights of Kenya
• Natural Splendours of Costa Rica
• Splendours of Cuba
• Splendours of Central America
• Costa Rica Adventure
• Back Roads of Central America
• Rainforest, Reef & Ruins Luxury
• Highlights of Mexico
• Panama & Costa Rica Experience: Solo Travellers Tour
• Central America Explorer
• Mayan Triangle
• Rainforest, Reef & Ruins Standard
• Luxury Tour of Costa Rica
• Uzbekistan: Heart of Central Asia
• Pakistan: Persians, Mughals and Mystics
• Central Asia Explorer
• Uzbekistan: The Golden Road to Samarkand
• The Legendary Silk Road by Rail: Almaty to Tashkent
• Silk Road Adventure

Across the Southern Caucasus

Classical turkey, the heart of ancient greece, majestic malta, the wonders of ancient crete, classic sicily, splendours of andalucía, puglia & basilicata, timeless romania, ravenna: mosaics & marble, neapolitan treasures: caserta, sorrento & pompeii, across albania & kosovo.

• Grand Tour of Indochina
• Spirit of Vietnam Superior
• Taiwan: The Beautiful Island
• Japan in Style
• Vietnam in Style
• Japan’s Cultural Treasures
• China: The Grand Tour
• A Journey through Malaysia
• Classic Thailand
• Vietnam & Cambodia in Style
• The Enchanted Island
• Splendours of Sri Lanka: Solo Travellers Tour
• The Grand Tour of India
• Passage through Kerala
• Nepal in Style
• Sri Lanka: Wonders of the Wild
• The Golden Triangle & Shimla
• Passage through Rajasthan
• Treasures of Southern India
• Exotic Sri Lanka
• Boutique Rajasthan
• Egypt: Ancient Wonders of Cairo & the Nile
• Moroccan Explorer: Imperial Cities to Desert
• The Ancient Wonders of Jordan & Egypt
• Nile Cruise & Lake Nasser
• Splendours of Jordan
• Oman: An Arabian Odyssey
• Moroccan Discovery
• Historic Cities & Culinary Delights of Morocco
• Grand Tour of South America
• Splendours of Chile
• Patagonia: Untouched Wilderness
• Ultimate South America
• Splendours of South America
• Train to Machu Picchu (Superior)
• Wonders of the New World
• Ecuador & Galápagos Experience
• Brazil: Wildlife & Waterfalls
• Peru & Galápagos Odyssey
• Group tours overview
• General interest
• Specialist-led tours
• Solo travellers
• Rail journeys
• Wildlife and nature
• Submit group tour enquiry

This tour explores the rich and colourful histories and capital cities of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

Explore the Golden Triangle and combine imperial Delhi with the Taj Mahal, the city of Jaipur and the beautiful hill station of Shimla.

Revel in the history, scenery and gastronomy surrounding Italy’s Bay of Naples, famed for its alluring coastal views and ancient ruins.

• Tailor-made holidays overview
• Family adventures
• Private groups
• Off the beaten track
• Submit tailor-made enquiry

For centuries, Italy's scenic Amalfi coast has drawn visitors for its historical sites, coastal vistas and small villages. 

Explore the vivid colours, architecture and landscapes of little-known Gujarat. 

This epic journey travels across seven countries to explore South America's greatest cultural, historic and natural wonders, including a cruise of the Galápagos islands.

• Solo travel
• Compass blog
• Month-by-month travel guide
• Choose hotels with character

Read our latest blog articles for holiday inspiration...

If you know when you are free to travel but not sure where to go, then look no further...

Our experienced travel consultants have shared their favourite destinations for an autumn holiday...

• Refer a friend and get £250 off your next holiday
• Free upgrade to British Airways Club Europe on Ravenna: Mosaics and Marble

Both you and your friend will enjoy a £250 saving on your next qualifying bookings with Cox & Kings.

See all our offers, including savings on small-group tours.

Enjoy discounted fares on selected cabin upgrades on our private tailor-made holidays and worldwide small group tours. Book by 1st October 2024

• About Cox & Kings
• Why Cox & Kings?
• Useful information
• Meet the team

With over 265 years' experience, we offer great service, value and support. 

Our expert travel consultants are passionate, knowledgeable and love to travel. 

View the awards Cox & Kings has won over the years for service and more.

• Destinations
• Group tours to Italy

Sicily: Normans in the South

Did you know we can tailor any tour?

Platinum Travel Consultant

020 7808 6785

Arrive in Palermo and transfer to Hotel Piazza Borsa (or similar) for 5 nights. This evening, enjoy a welcome lecture and dinner. (D)

Meal basis : As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.

Tour the historic heart of Palermo, including the Norman Palace, and the Cathedral with its treasury. Enjoy a light street-food lunch, where you will sample authentic local dishes such as arancini – inspired by the Arabic dish kibbeh and said to have been created for Emperor Federick II. Proceed to St John of the Hermits Church, a 12th-century hybrid of Norman and Arab design. The rest of your day is at leisure. (B, L)

Visit the imposing Cathedral of Monreale and its Benedictine cloister, a high point of Norman architecture in Sicily. Return to Palermo and visit the Zisa and Cuba Palaces, both of which display impressive Arab craftsmanship. (B)

Cefalà Diana

Visit the thermal baths of Cefalà Diana, a rare example of a surviving Arabic hammam in Sicily still filled with warm spring water. Proceed to a local bakery where you can sample traditional Sicilian pastries, several of which have medieval origins. Conclude with a tasting of local liqueurs. The rest of your day is at leisure. (B)

Palermo & Cefalù

This morning, visit Palermo’s 12th-century Church of St Mary of the Admiral, which features impressive Byzantine mosaics. Proceed to Cefalù and its cathedral, commissioned by Roger II who brought artisans from Constantinople to complete the lavish interior. This evening, enjoy a farewell drink with the group. (B, D)

Transfer to the airport for your return flight, or begin your tailor-made extension. (B)

Arrive in Palermo and transfer to Hotel Piazza Borsa (or similar) for 5 nights. This evening, enjoy a welcome lecture and dinner. (D) 

The Cox & Kings signature experiences

• Specialist-led from Days 1 to 6  
• Enjoy a street-food experience in Palermo 
• Sample Sicilian pastries in the cloister of a historic church  
• Sample wine and local produce in the Valley of the Temple

Important information

What's included.

• International flights (and domestic flights if applicable)
• UK departure and overseas airport taxes
• Accommodation & meal basis as described
• Guided sightseeing & entrance fees where applicable
• Services of specialist lecturer from Day 1 to Day 6

Is your preferred tour date fully booked?

Looking for a holiday that’s tailored to you, why not extend your tour, other small group tours you may like in europe.

8 days 7 nights

From £2,695

Delve into Sicily’s unique history, including the architecture of the Normans, the legacy of Byzantine artisans, and the enduring Arabic influence on Sicilian cuisine

From £2,495

The Mediterranean’s largest island, Sicily, is as culturally rich as it is beautiful

Piedmont with Valentina Harris

5 days 4 nights

From £2,595

Delight in the gastronomy of northern Italy alongside food writer and chef, Valentina Harris, as you tour and taste your way around Piedmont

From £1,795

Revel in the history, scenery and gastronomy surrounding Italy’s Bay of Naples on a tour that visits pretty Sorrento, ancient Pompeii, and the grand Caserta Palace

From £1,995

Known as ‘the heel of Italy’, the region of Puglia offers some of the country's most remote coastline and countryside, dotted with ancient sites and whitewashed towns

4 days 3 nights

From £1,595

Uncover Ravenna's glittering past with experts Rowena Loverance or Dr Sally Dormer

Journey through the Heart of Spain

From £1,895

Beyond the busy shores of the Mediterranean and Andalucía's popular tourist trail lies Extremadura, one of Spain's least-visited provinces but certainly one full of surprises

7 days 6 nights

Malta might be one of the smallest nations in Europe, but its strategic position at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has endowed it with rich, immemorial customs

10 days 9 nights

With its wealth of folkloric heritage, picturesque villages and mountain scenery, Romania is worthy of discovery

Journey through the Baltic States

From £1,695

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania may be small, but they are confident, outward-looking nations, each with their own identity and distinct culture

14 days 13 nights

From £2,995

Take an exciting journey across all three states of the southern Caucasus

Istanbul: Byzantines and Ottomans

Istanbul, capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, enjoyed more than four centuries of imperial patronage, resulting in one of the most dramatic skylines in the world

Divided from Morocco by the Strait of Gibraltar, Andalucía is one of Spain's most scenic regions

From £1,945

As a strategic gateway to the eastern Mediterranean, Crete has been ruled by a number of great powers, from the Minoans, one of Europe’s first civilisations, to the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman empires

9 days 8 nights

Turkey has played a major role in the history of the Mediterranean world

Armenia & Georgia: Treasures of the Caucasus

11 days 10 nights

From £3,395

Explore the spectacular highland countries of Armenia and Georgia, the world’s oldest Christian nations, with experts Dr William Taylor and Rowena Loverance

12 days 11 nights

Considered the birthplace of western civilisation, Greece retains an influence that still resonates today in the fields of architecture, science, engineering and philosophy

Portuguese Pousadas

From £2,095

Discover the old-fashioned charm of Portugal on this eight-day journey from Lisbon to Porto

Known as the 'Cradle of the Balkans', Albania is home to a wealth of natural and historic sites

Latest from Compass

48 hours in... palermo, away from the crowds…on the amalfi coast, finding your feet...in rome, in search of the good life...italy's beautiful borghi, medieval and renaissance...art in umbria, secret sicily... a self-drive discovery, genuinely small groups.

Small groups promise a more personal touring experience. That’s why Cox & Kings maintains a maximum group size of 18 guests on most tours, and an average of just 14.

Worldwide support

Enjoy round-the-clock support – in person, over the phone and online. This is made possible by our well-travelled staff and unrivalled network of offices in destinations across the world.

Your money is protected

Cox & Kings is ABTA bonded and ATOL protected. When you arrange a holiday with us, rest assured that your booking is secure and your money is protected.

Experts since 1758

Cox & Kings is a name you can trust. We’ve been helping the curious traveller explore for more than 265 years – longer than any other travel company.

Make an enquiry

Order a brochure.

A Guide to Staying in Sicily: The Best Areas for Your Sicilian Adventure

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 31/08/2024

Sicily is actually quite a large island with a lot of towns to visit. I have visited this beautiful Italian island twice. My first trip was to the eastern side of the island, where I visited Taormina, Syracuse and the Aeolian Islands. My second trip was to Western Sicily, where I stayed in Trapani, Favignana, Custonacci and Scopello. I found gorgeous boutique hotels in each area as well as some great things to do.

So here is where to stay in Sicily and how to have the best possible experience on this stunning Italian island.

Where to Stay in Sicily

Eastern sicily, 1. taormina.

Taormina is a ridiculously gorgeous town. The town itself is pedestrianized and filled with cute backstreets and lovely architecture. Taormina, Sicily is full of great restaurants, cafes and fantastic shops.

This city in Sicily is everything you want Italy to be and more. However, most of the accommodation in Taormina is outside of the pedestrianized town.

Hotel Villa Angela is no exception – it is located up the hill from Taormina. It is a gorgeous Taormina hotel with the most amazing views. Every room has a stunning view.

This hotel in Taormina makes the most of its location with a lovely terrace near reception where you can have a sundowner and a lovely pool. The staff at Hotel Villa Angela Taormina is lovely – very friendly and helpful. They even organized my day trip to Mt Etna .

Italy, in general, isn’t fabulous on the hotel front. They are usually quite expensive, and the rooms tired – and often with kind of odd bathrooms that feature something halfway between a shower and a bath but not really either. Thank goodness Hotel Villa Angela is nothing like this.

The rooms at this hotel in Sicily aren’t massive but are a good size and beautifully decorated. And each has a lovely balcony.

The hotel has a shuttle bus that goes down to the city gates once an hour and does a regular pickup. This was fantastically convenient. You do need to book the Hotel Villa Angela shuttle during peak times.

And a final fun fact – one of the owners of Hotel Villa Angela Sicily is the lead singer of the Simple Minds Jim Kerr. Apparently, he occasionally visits, so watch out for him when you stay!

⇒ Stay at Hotel Villa Angela ⇒ Read reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Things to do near Hotel Villa Angela:

• Go Shopping in Taormina

Taormina is definitely the place to go shopping in Sicily. It has a fantastic mix of classic Italian names you know like Furla and Coccinelle and super cute local stores filled with handmade shoes and handbags.

The Taormina main street is really the best place to go – I didn’t find as many good stores in the back streets. Handbags and purses are the things to buy here.

My favorite was Serapian, where I got a stunning matching handbag and purse. The upside of visiting Taormina in the heat of August was that there were quite a few sales on.

⇒ Montepulciano is another lovely area in Italy – check out my post on 12 Great Wineries in Montepulciano and 7 delightful Tuscany Boutique hotels

2. Climb Mt Etna

Mt Etna is stunning and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Sicily. If you are staying at Hotel Villa Angela, you will have a view of it from your room and be able to check the weather. I originally planned to climb Mt Etna – however, the August weather put me off.

Having said that, I had, of course, forgotten that you start the climb quite a bit above sea level where it was much cooler and this would have been fine to climb Mt Etna in summer. Indeed I saw many people climbing from the cable car.

However, the mountain looked very steep and the scenery quite same same so not sure how interesting a trek it would have been. Anyway, I had the hotel organize a day trip to Mount Etna for me.

The tour bus took us up to the base of Mt Etna, with a stop for Sicilian food products on the way. Once at the base of Mt Etna, you take a cable car and then a small bus up to the summit. From here, you can wander the summit of Mount Etna Sicily on your own.

Mount Etna is quite stunning. The summit itself is an unusual and very photogenic landscape. There are also some fantastic views over Sicily. It is very light physically – wear fairly sensible shoes.

After checking out the summit, you then head back down the same way. I was back at the main bus station in Taormina by mid-afternoon.

3. Have dinner at Al Saraceno

If you are after dinner with an amazing view, Al Saraceno is the place. And if you are staying at Hotel Villa Angela, it is only a 5 minute walk. I would recommend making a reservation – and asking for a table on the terrace at this Taormina restaurant so you can take advantage of the view.

The food is fabulous at this restaurant in Taormina – classically Italian. The key thing is it has a fantastic atmosphere and is a great way to really appreciate being in Taormina.

⇒ Check out my Post on 30 Unique Things to do in Sicily

Some other boutique hotel options in Taormina:

Stay in a turn-of-the-century villa carved into the cliffs at Villa Carlotta

⇒ Read reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

For a more lavish experience in Taormina check out or the grand villa at The Ashbee Hotel

2. Syracuse

I loved Syracuse – it was a highlight of Sicily where to stay. It is such a cute and atmospheric city. The old town of Ortygia is the place to stay, eat and wander. It is at its most magic as the sunsets.

Hotel Gutkowski is a fantastic find. Very reasonably priced at 110 pounds for a double, it is beautifully minimalist. The location of this Syracuse hotel is fantastic – just on the edge of lovely Ortygia and across from the waterfront.

Hotel Gutkowski Sicily has a great restaurant where you can get dinner and a fab breakfast. Their breakfast was the highlight of the breakfasts on my Sicily trip. Super fresh local ingredients – tomatoes to die for, freshly boiled eggs, amazing juice, and great coffee.

The rooms at this hotel in Syracuse are lovely – minimalist and clean and as I was there in August I particularly appreciated the fantastic air conditioning. The hotel has a great terrace where they serve Granite in the afternoon.

I would highly recommend heading to some of the foodie/deli shops nearby and grabbing some local wine and cheese and meat and having pre-dinner drinks on the terrace – it is lovely.

The staff at Hotel Gutkowski Syracuse are very friendly and very helpful in organizing transfers and trips.

⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Things to do near Hotel Gutkowski

• Take a day trip to Noto

One of the best things to do in Syracuse, Sicily is head to the gorgeous Noto. This beautiful little town 40km from Syracuse is full of beautiful pale-colored buildings.

The best thing to do in Noto Sicily is to wander its lovely streets. Use the main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, as your kick-off point, and then wander the side streets.

There are many restaurants and bars and don’t miss the main cathedral. And make sure you pop into Caffe Sicilia for either ice cream or a Granite – for which they are justifiably famous.

If you’d like to stay the night in Noto, check out the lovely  Gagliardi Boutique Hotel.

⇒ Read reviews on  TripAdvisor  ⇒  Book Now

2. Early evening walk around Ortygia

Ortygia is the perfect Italian old town. It is full of little streets that are perfect for wandering. The best time to go is early evening – kick-off about 30 minutes before sunset.

This Sicilian town is at its busiest at this point, but this provides atmosphere rather than headaches. Don’t miss Ortygia’s famous fountain and the main square.

3. Go shopping in Ortygia 

Ortygia has fantastic shopping. There are lots of Italian classics but a large number of unique and interesting boutiques. There are also some of the nicest souvenir shops I have ever seen. My hot tip is Ortigia.

This Italian company has grown beyond Sicily and has several stores in London. Ortigia is a fragrance company with lovely products – from perfumes to hand cream to shower gel in stunning scents. They also appear to be considerably cheaper here than in London, so stock up.

And don’t miss the food streets and market close to Hotel Gutkowski. This area is fantastic for buying produce and also extremely photogenic.

Another tip is that Catania airport has some fantastic food stalls where you can buy everything from cannoli to olive oil to take home easily. Make sure you get to the airport early.

4. Go to Le Vin De L’assassin Bistro for dinner

Le Vin De L’ assassin Bistro was one of my best meals in eastern Sicily. This highly recommended restaurant in Sicily is located in one of Syracuse’s back streets. We were in Syracuse in August and it was very hot so we took an outside table.

This Syracuse restaurant has a fantastic menu, great service, and a great wine list. I went with their signature tuna dish, and it was amazing! My recommendation would be not to have dessert here – wander back through the town and stop for some gelato or cannoli.

Another great boutique hotel option in Syracuse is Approdo Delle Sirene

3. The Aeolian Islands Salina

The Aeolian Islands are so beautiful. I had always wanted to visit. It wasn’t easy to decide which of the islands to choose. I decided on Salina due to its size and proximity to the mainland.

I had wonderful memories of watching the movie Il Postino which was shot in Salina. The island has a good range of restaurants and hotels without being too large. Malfa is the place to stay in Salina. It is rather hilly and you do want to be somewhere where you can walk to the main street and the beach.

I stayed at Hotel Santa Isabel in Salina. It was okay but not fantastic. The rooms were completely fine but quite basic and the air conditioning wasn’t very effective. Unfortunately, they don’t have a pool, so the best option is to head to one of the nearby beaches. However, that beach is very rocky, so do be careful.

Although I didn’t love my stay at Hotel Santa Isabel it does a great bar for sunset drinks. The view is stunning. It is a lovely outdoor bar with cocktails and a nice wine list. And best of all, they put on some very tasty snacks.

The bar at Hotel Santa Isabel is usually quite busy but you should still score a seat – definitely the place to go and watch the sun come down in the Aeolian Islands.

⇒ Click here for the latest prices and availability for Hotel Santa Isabel

So I didn’t actually stay at Hotel Signum but I should have. I checked it out while I was in Salina and couldn’t believe my error! It has an almost colonial feel and is very stylish, with a great-looking spa.

I eat at Hotel Signum twice while staying on the island. Lunch was great but dinner was the highlight. The ambiance in the outdoor eating area is wonderful at night and we had an outstanding three-course dinner.

However, the highlight of the evening was tasting the area’s famous dessert wine Malvasia. The pouring of this wine is ceremonial in feel and it is delicious.

Things to do near Salina

• Take a Boat trip to Stromboli

There are A LOT of boat trip options available in Salina. You could visit all the other Aeolian islands, you could hop on the main ferry, you could pretty much go anywhere – again, spoilt for choice is the theme of these Italian islands.

I had recently made a full-day boat trip in Corsica, which was rather crowded so I was in the mood for something that wasn’t a 9-5 commitment with 100 other people. We wanted to go mid-afternoon, to go to Stromboli, and of course to have some wine.

We headed down to the Malfa port and just asked boat owners. It wasn’t cheap but we were in a group of 4 so we could split things (was about 280 euros). We headed out mid-afternoon.

Going to Stromboli means sailing past some of the other Aeolian islands. We stopped on the coast of Stromboli and jumped off the boat into some of the loveliest clearest water I have ever swum in.

The boat took us to Stromboli about one hour before sunset. We saw its startling black beaches, the home of Dolce and Gabbana was pointed out to us (very important) and we got to have a wander around Stromboli which is lovely.

Once back on the boat, dinner was served – very impressive to serve pasta on such a small boat. We then settled in to watch the volcano on Stromboli bubbling away. It was a bit difficult to see, but we did see something.

As we were there in August and it was very hot I had decided against climbing to the top of the volcano (there are many day trips that offer this from Salina). I was then quite jealous of the head torches I could see as we were in our boat.

If the weather was cooler, this would be a great thing to do. We were back in port and a quick stroll to the hotel by about 10 pm – a lovely lovely experience.

⇒ Book Your Aeolian Islands Boat Trip

⇒ Heading to the Cinque Terre? Here is a One Day Cinque Terre Guide

2. Have a Granite in Lingua 

Lingua is a tiny town on the island of Salina. There is a bus that goes around the island and leaves once an hour so we hopped on this for the scenic 30-minute trip to Lingua.

I have to say there isn’t a lot in Lingua Salina – a cute little waterfront that is worth a stroll. But we had heard all about the famous Granite. There were many flavor options and the granite was delicious.

Western Sicily

If you want to feel like a local in Western Sicily, I highly recommend the Five Place Design Suite and Apartments . Located in the heart of Trapani, these modern apartments have a full kitchenette, separate bedroom, and separate bathroom. The living area is generous, with a large couch and a table for four. I loved my balcony, which faced the main street – a perfect place to watch life go by in Trapani.

The bedroom is huge, and it has a second balcony and a tv. The design aesthetic is very modern, with steel grey with splashes of yellow and blue. The kitchenette has a hot plate, crockery, and cutlery. The bathroom is also a good size and has a walk-in shower.

The staff is very friendly and keen to help. They also offer great suggestions at reception or through a list in the room of restaurants and local sites.

Breakfast is not provided, so guests can visit one of the many cute cafes in Trapani or do some grocery shopping and live like a local.

Things to do near Five Place

• Visit San Lorenzo Cathedral

Trapani’s main cathedral is located on one of the main streets of the old town. It’s an attractive baroque building in pale colors but the real wow is the inside. The high ceiling is ornately decorated and in excellent condition.

2. Eat Fish Couscous in Trapani

Trapani’s most famous dish is fish couscous. North Africa meets Sicilian seafood in this delicious dish. And the place to eat fish couscous is Cantina Siciliana which has won many awards and is best known for its fish couscous.

We were looking enough to experience a fish couscous cooking demonstration with Pino Maggiore, the owner of Cantina Siciliana since 1980. The fish couscous was as delicious as promised and even better washed down with a glass of Fondo Antico Sicilian Chardonnay.

3. Visit Trapani Salt Pans

Back in 1863, two years before Italian Unification, all of the town of Trapani was a salt pan. Today 1000 hectares of salt pans, a 15-minute drive from the heart of the city of Trapani, are now a nature reserve and home to 230 different bird species and 1100 flamingoes that appear in the afternoon. 

Trapani still exports salt to 34 countries and it is collected by hand. They stopped using the beautiful windmills after World War Two as new technologies became available. However, they are still in place today to add to the unique landscape.

It is possible to drive and walk around the salt pans. The heart of the salt pans is the salt museum with a windmill on its roof – and some great views over the salt pans. The downstairs museum tells the history of salt in Trapani and also covers its famous red garlic production (red garlic is 3 times stronger than normal garlic).

5. Favignana

Favignana is the largest of the Egadi Islands off the Western Coast of Sicily and one of the loveliest places to stay in Sicily. The Pretti hotel near the harbor is the perfect place to stay in Favignana. The hotel opened with 16 suites in 2010 in a building that was part of the Florio family’s tuna empire on Favignana.

Most rooms at The Pretti are 48 square meters and have entrances from the hotel’s garden. They are decorated in a simple seaside style in fresh and neutral colors. Each suite has a unique design. The hotel also has two larger suites.

The hotel also has a 2000 square meter Mediterranean garden courtyard, the Florio Lounge, and offers a wide range of massages.

Things to do on Favignana

• Visit the beautiful old tuna factory Ex Stabilimento Florio

I would never have thought of a tuna factory as an interesting place to visit, nor could I have imagined calling one beautiful, but Ex Stabilimento Florio Favignana is both fascinating and beautiful.

This is a factory made by Italians, and it is understandable why they sometimes hold weddings here. The first “room” to be visited on the tour stores the long, old tuna boats and has wrought iron gates made in Palermo, where it meets the sea.

The high ceilinged beautiful rooms exhibit boats, photography exhibitions, netting, and all things tuna. The nets for tuna fishing spread over a distance of 8 kilometers and there are many on display. If there were a church for tuna, this would be it.

2. Eat a tuna kebab at Tuna Fish City

You cannot miss having a tuna kebab from Tuna Fish C ity in Favignana’s main square. The tasty bread roll overflows with seared tuna, tomatoes, onions, peppers and lettuce and is absolutely fantastic.

3. Hit the Beach

Favignana is a protected area, so its beaches are pristine and oh so clean. The best way to explore the island is to hire an e-bike. There are few cars on the island, so bicycles are the main form of transport.

It would be hard to go wrong when choosing a beach on Favignana, but we visited Cala Azzurra. There is a café on the main road to look after all your snacking needs. I highly recommend the granites.

6. Buseto Palizzolo

If you’re interested in an agri-tourism place to stay in Sicily, I highly recommend Baglio Fontana . This four-star hotel has been an active farm for over two centuries. There are 14 rooms, two of which are superior, and all have preserved the characteristics of the original farm building.

The design is a mixture of ancient Sicily and modern comforts. Many rooms have the original stone walls and tiled floors. The colors are light and the rooms feel simple and airy. Plus, they have wifi and air conditioning.

Baglio Fontana has a spa, a large outdoor pool, and an outstanding restaurant. Even if you don’t stay at Baglio Fontana, I highly recommend visiting their fantastic restaurant and enjoying their homemade pasta and the amazing caponata.

Baglio Fontana is located between Trapani, Erice and Castellammare del Golfo.

Things to do near Baglio Fontana

1. Have an olive oil tour and tasting

Olive oil has been made in Sicily for centuries, so where better to take a tour and learn how it is made? I visited Oleificio Mazzara in Buseto Palizzolo. We began by “picking” the olives, which is basically just shaking a branch gently so that the olives fall off.

We then saw the olives be transported to the factory where they were sorted, pressed and then turned into an olive juice which tastes absolutely dreadful. We were given the juice to taste in a shot glass, and I didn’t finish mine.

The olive oil tasting that followed was far more pleasant.

2. Marvel at the Views from Custonaci Marble Quarry

I don’t think I have ever visited a quarry as a tourist attraction before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. The quarry in Custonaci is the second biggest in Europe for marble. The quarry itself is 700 million years old.

Custonaci’s marble is exported worldwide and used for everything from buildings to sculptures. The quarry will celebrate 100 years in 2023, and it was started by the current owner’s great great grandfather.

Tours of the quarry can be organized through this local tour company . I recommend visiting the quarry in the late afternoon as the light is stunning on the rocks and it is a perfect time of day to capture the amazing views over the area.

3. Experience Sicilian life from the early 20th century at Mangiapane Caves in Custonaci

The Mangiapane caves in Custonaci offer the chance to see how Sicilian families lived and worked in another time. It has been created as a sort of folk museum but is also a working farm. Four core families lived in and around the caves before World War Two but the last full-time resident left in 1959.

In the early 1980s, a local church had the idea to hold its nativity play in the caves. As they had been overrun by nature and animals for 20 years, quite a lot of work needed to be done. The church still holds the nativity play every year at the caves, even though it is now a museum.  

There are lots of cute animals around the cave, including donkeys, ducks, peacocks, roosters and goats. Visitors can see the old mills used to press olives for olive oil. Few things went to waste, and left over olive leaves were used to make things like brooms and seats.

Near the mouth of the cave are several old buildings which recreate the stores which would have been in that location at the time.

7. Scopello

If you want to stay somewhere special when visiting Sicily, I highly recommend Tonnara di Scopello. Tonnara di Scopello is more like a little seaside village than a hotel. The spectacular stacks of Scopello rocks protect The Tonnara.

The Tonnara dates back to the 13th century. It was developed into a tiny seaside village between the 15th and 16th centuries. This is the base of the current hotel. In 1874 the Florio Family was awarded the Tonnara at a public auction and turned it into “Palazzina Florio.”

Tonnara di Scopello is made up of 15 apartments which all have sea views. Each has retained as much as possible of the original features. The interior design theme is fresh, simple and nautical.

The Tonnara is really 15 apartments rather than a hotel. There is no direct catering, but a small store with food on the beach. There is also an open-air museum on the site detailing the history of fishing in the area.

Things to do near Tonnara di Scopello

• Take a boat trip around the Zingaro Reserve

Out of all the beautiful places to visit in Sicily, and there are many, the coastline from San Vito Le Capo east to Castellammare del Golfo may be the most beautiful and is best experienced from a boat.

Start your boat trip in San Vito Le Capo and head past the Bay of Venus. I recommend taking your cruise with Hippocampus . The cruise will then continue along the Zingaro Reserve. This seven-mile strip became a protected area in the early 1980s. Visitors can only enter the reserve on foot.

The views become even more stunning as the boat heads east toward the Tonnaro di Scopello Resort. The stacks of Scopello emerge from the water and make for stunning photographs. They are similar to the rocks of Capri, but uniquely these rocks have prickly pears growing on them. The stacks of Scopello have been used in many Italian movies and tv shows.

Then I suggest spending the rest of your time enjoying the beautiful Tonnaro di Scopello. Why head out when you are staying at one of the most beautiful places in Sicily?

And if you are visiting Sicily why not make sure you see more of amazing Italy? One of my favorite places in Italy is Milan. Check out how to make the most of 24 hours in Milan .

Getting There and Getting Around

Catania is the main airport on the eastern side of the island and  Palermo is the gateway to the western side of the island.

Check out cheap flights to both here:

⇒ Flights to Catania

⇒ Flights to Palermo

⇒ Organise an airport pick up

I highly recommend hiring a car while in Sicily to get around. And if you’re already in Italy, did you know you can also get a train to Sicily ?

If you need a hand putting together your plans, don’t miss my Sicily Itinerary 7 Days article.

Related Posts:

Interesting Things to do in Positano

1 0 Days Italy Itinerary

Things to do in Orvieto Italy

Who Paid for What in this Where to Stay in Sicily Post

I covered the costs of my flights to and from Sicily. I covered all of the costs involved in visiting the eastern side of the island. West of Sicily tourism covered all of my on-the-ground costs when I visited their side of the island – thanks Daniela!

This things to do in Sicily post does contain affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links and make a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Like this post? Why Not Share It?

Thanks for Sharing!