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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Why to Take a Sicily Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Palermo: 2 Days

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

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

What to Do in Palermo

Step inside the magnificent palermo cathedral..

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Palermo food + walking tour today!

Visit the mummies at the Capuchin Crypt of Palermo.

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

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

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

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

Palermo Travel Tips

You probably don’t need a car here..

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Palermo

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

Check rates & book your stay at Il Lapino!

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

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

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

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

Cefalù : 2 Days

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

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

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

What to Do in Cefalù

Climb to the top of la rocca..

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

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

Check out the Cefalù Cathedral.

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

Enjoy being a beach bum.

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

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

Cefalù Travel Tips

Savor getting lost here..

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

Where to Stay in Cefalù

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

Check rates & book your stay at Sweet Home Cefalù !

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

Check rates & book your stay at Marina House!

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

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Barone Agnello!

Taormina: 2 Days

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

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

What to Do in Taormina

Visit the greek theatre..

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

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

Take a day trip to Mount Etna.

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

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

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

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

Go for a swim at Isola Bella.

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

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

Book your  boat cruise around Isola Bella  today!

Taormina Travel Tips

Not everything is within walking distance..

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

Check the weather carefully.

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

Where to Stay in Taormina

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Taormina!

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Natalina!

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

If so, the Hotel Continental is for you!

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Continental!

Syracuse: 2 Days

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

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

What to Do in Syracuse

Check out castello maniace..

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

Stroll through the small streets of Ortigia.

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

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

Marvel at the Temple of Apollo.

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

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

Syracuse Travel Tips

Stay in ortigia if you can..

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

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

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

Choose where you park in advance.

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

Learn from our mistakes and plan carefully beforehand!

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Syracuse

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

Check rates & book your stay at Room Calafatari!

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Posta!

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Livingston!

Val di Noto: 2 Days

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

What to Do in the Val di Noto

Hop between the beautiful baroque towns..

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

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

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

Admire views of Ragusa Ilba.

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

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

Snack on chocolate in Modica.

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

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

Val di Noto Travel Tips

Choose where to stay carefully..

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Val di Noto

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

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

Check rates & book your stay at SanVito Hostel!

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

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Il Barocco!

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

Check rates & book your stay at San Giorgio Palace!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aeolian Islands

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

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

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

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

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

Shop around for your rental car.

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

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

Price Sicily rental cars with Discover Cars today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rent the smallest car you can manage.

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

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

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

Carry lots of coins.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

One week in Sicily: The perfect Sicily itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

How to get around Sicily?

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Palermo

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

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

7 day Sicily itinerary map

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

The perfect Sicily itinerary for 7 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8: Fly home!

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

7-day Sicily itinerary: Final thoughts

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

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

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

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

Pin this 7-day Sicily itinerary!

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

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19 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sicily travel guide — the fullest sicily tourist guide for first-timers.

Referring to Italy, in addition to the powerful and mighty of Rome, the rich culture of Tuscany or the vibrant of Naples, surely the name Sicily or Sicilia will evoke lot of emotions to anyone. Sicily, not only has famous for the novel ‘The Godfather’, ‘specialty’ Mafia and Separatism but also owns a lot of great things that no other land in Italy can match, including the rich and diverse culture of the land with the oldest history in Italy after Rome. In terms of landscape, cultural identity and geographical location, Sicily is not inferior to any other place in Italy, but what has made this land stray from the image of a prosperous Europe that people often imagine? This Sicily blog not only shares with you Sicily travel experiences, but also provides a part of the social picture of the evil land in the pages of Mario Puzo’s books. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Sicily — The largest island of Italy for the first-time? Let’s check out our Sicily travel blog (Sicily blog) with the fullest Sicily travel guide (Sicily guide, Sicily tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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If you have read the world famous novel ‘The Godfather’ by Mario Puzo, you will surely know the legendary land of Sicily of Italy which is also the beautiful southernmost island with tradition of producing wine for more than a thousand years. Not only being the “land of Mafia”, this place also contains many interesting and strange things.

Unlike many other large cities and regions in Italy, Sicily is not dense with monumental or massive, majestic or high-rise buildings, but it has many palm trees and other rare trees and plants that evoke the feeling of being in a country of Middle East or North Africa. The streets of cities or towns in Sicily are also small, and there are many more flea markets, shops right on the streets, diverse markets from food markets selling meat, fish and vegetables, to clothing stalls, Chinese game electronics, to gas stoves and ovens.

Sicily travel guide: Overview of Sicily

Where is sicily.

Well, if you imagine Italy as a boot or a high-heeled shoe, Sicily is like a kicked ball. Indeed, this image ironically compares Sicily’s position in the heart of Italy: Backward and isolated. Despite the distance from the mainland (ie Italy) to the port of Messina of Sicily is only 6.6km, but Sicily is already considered a remote island of Italy.

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with an area of up to 25,711 km² and a population of over 5 million (2022), it is separated from mainland Italy by the Strait of Messina, is one of five autonomous regions, officially known in Italian as Regione Siciliana. The most prominent landscape of the island is Mount Etna, the most famous volcano in Europe with the most frequent and powerful eruptions.

Sicily is 3km from Calabria (in mainland Italy), 160km from the coast of Africa, and to this day, it is still impossible to confirm whether Sicily was once attached to Africa or mainland Italy. Due to its geographical location, Sicily is the most important island in Mediterranean Sea.

A brief history of Sicily

Since the appearance of the first inhabitants, the ancient people of Sicanians, there have been many peoples to occupy, successively inhabiting this hilly and rich in flora and fauna island. After the primitive civilization of the Sicanians came the civilization of the people of Sicels (the origin of the name Sicily), then the people of Elymians originated from West Asia (now Turkey), and then continued to be assimilated by Greek army. For hundreds of years, people jostle against each other to occupy this vast and majestic island, Sicily was handed over from the Greeks to the Carthaginians, to the Roman Empire, to Arabia, to Norman, to France, to Spain, to Austria… until Giuseppe Garibaldi unified Italy and regained Sicily in 1860.

Due to its prime location with hundreds of years of changing thrones, Sicily is the cultural exchange of many different cultures, the Sicilian people are famous for their multi-racial diversity and colorful culture. Coming to Sicily, you can see a blending of ancient indigenous civilizations such as Sicanians, Sicels, Elymians, to the civilizations of invaders such as Roman, Greek, Arab, Norman, Albania, France, Spain. A lot of people in Sicily today are of Albanian origin because this people have occupied and settled here since the 16th century…

The Greeks also invaded the southern Italy and Sicily, so Sicily is so heavily influenced by Greek culture and its civilization, so there are a lot of Greeks here, more Greek-style temples than in Greece itself. The language of the Sicilian people therefore also has a lot of foreign elements mixed (there are even some Albanian-influenced communities who have occupied here since the sixteenth century and to day they still speak the ancient Albanian language). Even the eye color and hair color of a large number of people in Sicily (red hair and blue eyes) are also considered traits they inherited from the Normans. In addition, there also are many people with Arab surnames. So, many Italians sometimes joke that Sicily isn’t Italian, and many Sicilian themselves also don’t identify themselves as Italian.

Sicily travel guide: Is Sicily safe?

There is no country is absolutely safe but actually in Sicily you will be surprised because the security here is better than you think. I lived for a year in Sicily and have never been pickpocketed, stolen or cheated while in Rome I was scammed as soon as I arrived at the airport. The proud Sicilian are sincere, generous and respect to foreigners. What about the mafia? I didn’t see the influence of this criminal organization on the daily life here. However, you should not be too casual when talking about this topic or discuss it with natives because it is a rather complicated topic.

Generally, fewer pickpockets than other famous tourist cities such as: Rome, Barcelona, ​​Paris… also not as many robbers as Naples, Sicily is much safer. There is also absolutely no gunfight like in the movies, probably because civilians, tourists are not the object of interest of mafia gangs. However, you should also be careful when wandering around in slums or suburbs, which may not be as safe as in downtown areas.

What about poverty and backwardness? Indeed, Sicily has poorer infrastructure than northern regions and high rates of unemployment, ghost towns and abandoned cities when young people move to the North to finding jobs that makes the cities become deserted, full of elderly people but in general people still have a comfortable life.

Sicily travel blog: When to visit?

Sicily is endowed with a mild Mediterranean climate, warm winters, cool summers, and little rain. The average temperature in winter is about 6-7 degrees Celsius, 18-20 degrees Celsius in summer.

The golden rule when traveling to countries with sea and islands is to go in sunny summer, even if it’s the peak season with higher costs. Summer in Italy is similar to Vietnam, lasting from the end of May to the end of August. The Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and due to its geographical location close to North Africa, summer in Sicily is hotter than other European regions. However, the European summer is very pleasant compared to the summer in the North or Central Vietnam.

You can also come to Sicily in spring with lush green trees, flowers blooming everywhere, it will be more beautiful but not as crowded as in summer, especially for ocean lovers. However, many hotels and restaurants only open in the summer when tourists flocking here.

Sicily travel guide: How to get to Sicily?

The simplest and most efficient way to get to Sicily is by plane. The island has two international airports: Palermo and Catania, connecting to many major cities in the world and the most famous airline is Alitalia – the national carrier of Italy.

There are no direct train routes from mainland cities to Sicily because there is no bridge connecting the island to the mainland. Due to the distance is too far from other regions of Italy, so taking a bus will takes a lot of time, so I do not recommend you to choose this option.

Traveling by boat also is a option to reach Sicily. There are many ferry companies such as Alicudi Palermo Ferry, Alicudi Milazzo Ferry, Civitavecchia Palermo Ferry, Civitavecchia Palermo Termini Imerese Ferry, Favignana Trapani Ferry… which are operating routes to Sicily, you can directly buy tickets at ticket counters at ferry piers or buy online in advance, refer to departture points, routes and timetables here .

Sicily guide: Getting around Sicily

Unlike other developed regions or cities in Italy, public transport in Sicily is even more backward. Usually, in order to save time and make the most comfortable, tourists often choose to travel by coach (passenger car) between tourist destinations on the island. You can refer to the website of the Etna Travel Service Company here or via Facebook , the web is not available in English, so please use Google Translate. According to my experience, you should look up the departure time on the website and then follow the address that listed on the website to buy tickets right on the spot, because online payment also is not available.

For trains you can book and pay online here . However, not every city in Sicily has a train station and the frequency of trains is not as much as that of passenger cars.

Self-driving

However, you should rent a private car if you want to freely explore the tourist attractions on the island. It is recommended to rent in advance online, especially to avoid the holidays or special occasions. The car rental price for a week ranges from €250 to €500. Large rental companies often offer better prices, should not be rented from small firms, they often offer cars with poor quality, prices are not fixed. All car rental companies have offices at the airports and in major cities in Sicily.

Sicily travel guide: What to do and where to go?

Trapani – marsala, salt flats and ancient windmills.

Since ancient times, salt has always played an extremely important role in human life. People get rich from salt, war for salt, even in Italy there are many roads named “Via Salaria” – Salt Route.

The hot winds from Africa, the long sunny summer days, the saltwater coastal lands are all the perfect conditions for the birth of immense salt fields. Here, natural sea salt is still crystallized from the evaporation of water, just as the ancient Phoenicians did 2,700 years ago. Salt was sold throughout the Mediterranean, as far away as the Nordic countries. Thanks to salt, in the mid-16th century it was one of the most important ports in Europe. Today, although there are many different substitutes, the salt here is still preferred by culinary experts because of its purity, no preservatives and the salty taste of natural sea salt.

Leaving the highway, driving along the highway from Trapani to Marsala you will encounter salt fields along both sides of the road. The scene of salt fields is adorned by scattered ancient windmills on the horizon. The first windmills were built in the Middle Ages, today most people use mechanical pumps, but sporadically, there are still 1-2 windmills that continue to lead into and drain water out of the salt fields.

Not available in Sicily tours, and if you want to go, you also have to rent a private car to get there, so not many tourists know this place. But if you have an opportunity to get here, remember to visit the Museum of Salt and the restaurant Trattoria del Sale. You can both visiting, admiring artifacts and documents regard the salt industry in Trapani, and you can also enjoy dishes using salt according to local recipes. And of course, you should also take advantage of buying a few bags of sea salt to use and give as gifts to friends.

Isola Di Vulcano – The Island of Volcanoes

The ancient Greeks named the island Thérmessa, meaning “Source of Heat”, and in Greek mythology it was known as the forge of God Hephaestus (Vulcano in Roman, the god of fire, blacksmiths, and craftsmen). The small island of only 21 square kilometers, 25 kilometers off the northern coast of Sicily, is the closest island to Sicily in the cluster of eight Aeolian Islands. From the main island of Sicily, there are many ports to catch a boat or ferry to the island, but you should go to the port of Messina, the port closest to the island cluster, from there, you can take ferries or boats to reach the island. Buying ticket is simple, just go to the port to see which boat preparing to depart, then go to its ticket counter right on the street and then get on the boat, it only takes 40 minutes to get to the island.

Currently there are 3 volcanoes on the island, of which the Gran volcano is still active. Rated as the most impressive attraction on the island, the scene of the crater is truly breathtaking. The smoldering columns of white smoke, the strong smell of sulfur. However, you should not reach too close, might will be suffocated.

Due to the volcanic terrain, an interesting place to visit is the natural hot mud bath area of ​​Fanghi. The mineral mud here contains very high sulfur content (the smell is quite concentrated), especially good for people with rheumatism and skin diseases (oily skin, acne, psoriasis).

In addition, due to the formation of lava flows, there are many volcanic black sand beaches on the island. The best way to go around the island, stopping at any beach you like is to rent a motorbike, or an ATV, the rental price for a day is not too expensive, about 15-25 Euros depending on the season.

Besides tourist services, people on Vulcano island mainly live by goat farming and hunting. So there are also great local cheeses like goat ricotta, and traditional dishes like fried ricotta, pasta with ricotta, seasoned with local specialties including herbs and spices.

The medieval fishing village of Cefalu

With narrow winding cobblestone streets, small beaches and a lovely harbor, Cefalu is one of Sicily’s most beautiful and most popular medieval fishing villages. The most impressive thing in Cefalu is the Lavatoio – a public laundry area that dates back to the 16th century in the Middle Ages. The laundry area was built where the Cefalino estuary empties into the sea. A special thing is that this river originates in the mountains next to Cefalu, flows underground, slips under the small houses in the village before emptying into the sea. Legend has it that this murmuring stream is the tears of the river goddess, who mourns her beloved husband day and night. From the main street, gracefully curving stairs lead down to the laundry area carved out of monolithic blocks with cool water designed to flow into 22 small faucets, of which 15 are designed in the shape of a dragon’s head which still well preserved to this day.

Until the 60s and 70s of the last century, Cefalu women loved to gather to do laundry here, especially in the hot summer days of the southern Mediterranean because they loved the cool water here due to underground flow through several kilometers before being exposed and flowing into the sea.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Palermo – the capital of the island of Sicily, is famous for its fresh food and the enthusiasm, generosity, hospitality and kindness of the coastal people. Visitors can return to the past and riding around streets on unique horse-drawn carriages that will not be disappear even when the most modern vehicles appear. Most Palermo people are proud to talk about their homeland, a peaceful coastal city with bold classical European architecture.

And having come to Palermo, it is impossible to ignore its markets. All you need is to walk along the Vucciria market (Mercato della Vucciria) to experience local life. This is a place where locals and tourists come to buy fresh fruit, seafood and fresh cheeses with the enthusiastic, soulful sales style of the Mediterranean people.

Aeolian Islands

Aeonlian Islands is a must-go destination on the journey to Sicily, it is a volcanic archipelago of Sicily, Aeolian not only has pristine coastlines, volcanic black sand beaches, caves and cliffs, but also has a full range of amenities and tourist facilities such as mineral hotspring resorts, water sports, interesting relaxing fishing service.

Don’t miss the beautiful scenery in the town of Marzamemi which is one of the friendliest destinations for a summer vacation. If you want to relax, enjoy beautiful space, experience ancient Italian style, nice climate all year round and saving memories with your family, then Marzamemi is a good choice.

The town of Gangi was built on a small hill in central Sicily, about 80 kilometers to the southeast of Palermo, like a giant tortoise shell. About several years ago, very few people outside of Italy had heard of this village. Considered as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, this 12th-century old town had a population of about 16,000 in the 1950s but today only 7,000 remain.

Sicily Valley

Located next to a mountainside outside the city of Agrigento, the valley of Sicily possesses seven Greek temples, so it is called the valley of the temples. The Temple of Concordia, built in the 5th century BC, is the best preserved in the valley and is one of the largest and best preserved Doric temples still standing. Doric columns with 7 m high, 1.3 m in diameter. Other temples include the Temple of Juno, used for wedding ceremonies, and the Temple of Heracles, the oldest temple in the area.

Town of Piazza Armerina

The people of Piazza Armerina speak a different language than in other parts of Sicily. Here, visitors have the opportunity to visit beautiful Gothic works and buildings, especially the Villa Romana del Casale, a palace built in ancient Roman times in the middle of the 4th Century AD with the extraordinary mosaics decoration.

This town located in the southeast of Sicily is known as the “town of Baroque culture”. The Baroque structures in Val di Noto were remodeled in 1693 after a terrible earthquake and were recognized by UNESCO in 2002. The best time to visit Val di Noto is spring, when there are many festivals are held.

In Greek mythology, Etna is the place where Zeus imprisoned the monster Typhon, ending the war that is considered the most terrible in the history of Greek mythology. Currently, Etna is one of the most active and powerful volcanoes in the world, each time the volcano erupts Italians often joke that it is the wrath of the monster Typhon to escape the captivity of Zeus. Etna is also considered a symbol of Sicily, if you are a person who likes challenges and adventure travel, you cannot miss the opportunity to witness firsthand this great volcano.

Taormina is an extremely famous mountain town in Sicily. From Taormina you can see ravishing pebble beaches below, the beautiful Isola Bella island as its name suggests, the old streets for walking and shopping.

You can get to Taormina by bus and if you want to go down to the pebble beaches at the foot of the mountain, you can choose the bus or cable car, in the peak seasons you can go early to get a seat or access to the private beaches of restaurants. Entrance fees will be charged per person.

In addition to beautiful beaches, Taormina is also famous for its Greek theater, this is a theater built by the Greeks in the 2nd century BC. You can also take a walk in the old town of Corso Umberto – a shopping and culinary paradise to explore every corner of Taormina.

The port city and economic center in Eastern Sicily. Although not as famous as the capital of Palermo, Catania is a city worth visiting due to its location right at the foot of Mount Etna – Europe’s largest active volcano. Due to its proximity to the volcano, the structures, buildings and houses here are built mainly of lava rock, creating a slightly sad gray color for the whole city.

Tourist activities of the city are concentrated along the Via Etnea avenue, where you can visit the Cathedral and Badia of Sant’Agata, the Central Square, the University of Catania – one of the oldest universities in the world, shopping street, fruit market, fish market and Ursino fortress. Just walk along the avenue and turn sideways and turn along the directions of the map. Catania is quite small, so it only takes one afternoon to visit its center. From afar, do not forget to watch the Etna volcano, which is still growling day and night to release smoke into the sky.

This is a small city on the Ionian coast, not as famous as Taormina but as beautiful as a gentle wave of the sea. Acireale has a very small and lovely Central square, not to mention the small and narrow alleys that go forever without seeing an end. Far away is the pale blue sea. We kept walking along small alleys to find that color of blue sea, but we forgot about our tired feet. In the past, Acireale used to be quite crowded with tourists, but due to the economic downturn, today the city is gradually deserted. I listened to uncle Grazia’s story and I saw that faint blue color become sadder.

The city is named for both its culture and architecture, so the beauty of Noto is truly overwhelming. The Baroque architectural style is famous for its sharp shapes, high contrast of colors and delicate curves of sculpture. In Noto, those elements are pushed to an astonishing level of sophistication and exquisition. I have visited many Baroque buildings in Vatican, Naples but Noto really is the most elegant. The cathedral here is not grandiose and the streets here are also small, but it is the honey yellow color of the stone that makes Noto really unique. We originally planned to go to Siracusa, the city where the famous Malena movie was set, but uncle Santi said Noto was equally beautiful without being touristized. Indeed, when traveling far, you have to ask the locals to know the real good places.

Ragusa Ibla

The last city before parting with Sicily and also the city with the most memories for me. Since I lived for 8 months in Ragusa Ibla, this is really my second home. Ragusa is also close to the southernmost point of the island, traveling so far away to meet my Italian friends when I was a student. I was really surrounded by the kind people of Sicily and taught me many things. Ragusa Ibla rose to prominence a few years back as the setting of an Italian TV series. From an average tourist city, it has become a trending destination for Italians. The city is located on a mountain, so just go from the lowest point to the highest peak to enjoy the beauty of the romantic mountain town.

Diving in Lampedusa

Lampedusa is voted by many travel sites as the most beautiful coast in Europe with a long coastline, many beautiful beaches with clear and blue sea water. This is also a very suitable spot for those who love diving and watching coral. In addition, you can also witness turtles come ashore to lay eggs in the evenings of early September, this must be an extremely interesting experience.

Whisper your secrets at the Ear of Dionysius cave

Even if you talk in a whisper in the Ear of Dionysius cave, be careful because any of your secrets can be exposed whether those around you are near or far away.

The Ear of Dionysius man-made rock cave located in the city of Syracuse (southern Sicily), has been designed so that even the slightest whisper is clearly amplified. Legend has it that this cave was created by Dionysius I – the famous abuser of Syracuse to eavesdrop on the whispers of prisoners locked inside.

Rafting and trekking in Gole Alcantara

Gole Alcantara is a botanical and geological park 40 minutes by car from the town of Taormina, Sicily. This park is an interesting destination for locals and tourists instead of crowded beaches, everyone enjoys spectacular gorges, towering cliffs with strange structures, even water can freeze even in summer time. In addition to activities such as rafting, group boating, water parks, etc. Adventurers can also try challenging adventure sports such as mountain climbing, canyoning, etc.

Tasting Sicilian fine wine

This beautiful island with a typical Mediterranean climate, fertile soil is very suitable for growing grapes, and this is the region with the oldest winemaking tradition in Italy with famous wines such as DOCG, DOC, white wine Moscato di Noto and other famous red wines.

Sicily travel guide: What to eat?

Sicily has many dishes using local products such as cheese, olive oil, tomatoes, especially the seafood here is very fresh and quite cheap. If you have time, you should visit the local markets as well as tasting specialties here with full of fresh vegetables and local produce such as Vucciria Market in Palermo or La Pescheria fish market in Catania.

Due to influenced by Arab cuisine, Sicily is flooding with pastries. First, you must try Arancina (Arancini), rice balls that are stuffed with, cheese and tomato sauce then coated with bread crumbs and deep fried. Next is Cannolo (Cannoli), an extremely seductive cream-filled pastry consisting fried pastry dough, stuffed with a sweet, creamy filling usually containing ricotta. It has crispy crust with sweet ricotta cream, soft at every bite. Don’t forget to try the almond milk from the province of Agrigento as well. In Catania, don’t forget to try grilled horse meat.

Smorgasbord is the popular type of serving here with many delightful mixing dishes which are influenced by Arabic, Greek, French, Spanish and North African with an Italian twist, giving it a speacial flavor and style that you should try!

Sarde a beccafico – The famous Sicilian stuffed sardines here.

The restaurant we dined in in Catania was Trattoria Da Zia Tanina (Address: Via Plebiscito, 428, 95122 Catania CT, Italy/Hours: 12–3:30PM, 7PM–12AM; Monday: 7PM–12AM) , which specializes in horse meat dishes. There is another restaurant specializing in Sicilian cuisine called Giaca Ristorante Pizzeria (Address: Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 245, 95029 Viagrande CT, Italy/Hours: 6PM–1AM; Wednesday:Closed) , in the town of Viagrande near Catania. Here we tried pizza and pasta for dinner. If you spend the night in Ragusa Ibla, you can dine at U Saracinu and Da Nito Titos , two popular restaurants in the region.

Sicily travel blog: What to buy?

Definitely the world famous Marsala red wine. In addition, Caltagirone ceramics is also the pride of this dangerous land.

Sicily travel guide: How should I combine my Sicily travel itinerary?

Normally, tourists after finish their journeys to exploring famous destinations in the North of Italy such as Rome, Venice, Florence and then they will going to the South or making another trip to return Italy for the second time and want to explore more deeply the beauty of the boot-shaped country.

Because the island of Sicily is quite large and possesses so many tourists attractions as introduced above, so it will take at least a week or two week to explore all famous places here. For those of you who just want to explore the most famous places, there are two itinerary you can refer to as follows:

Explore the western part of the island:

• Day 1: Arrive in Palermo – Visit the capital city of Palermo
• Day 2: Traveling to Cefalù, a beautiful seaside city near Palermo
• Day 3: Traveling to Erice, a lovely little city and then return to Palermo, ending the trip.

Explore the eastern part of the Island

• Day 1: Arrive in Catania – Visit the port city of Catania
• Day 2: Traveling to Taormina – the most beautiful tourist city in Sicily – Traveling to Acireale – a lovely small city and back to Catania.
• Day 3: Traveling to Noto – A city that representing a school of architecture – Traveling to Ragusa Ibla, the emerging tourist city in Siclia – Return to Catania.

The East and West of Sicily has significant differences in landscape, culture and architecture, so choosing only one of the two is definitely not enough to fully understand this beautiful island. However, due to limited time, I chose the Eastern itinerary, also known as the Val di Noto journey to explore Sicily.

Sicily travel guide: Where to stay?

Check out top ratings and best accommodation, hotels, apartments on Agoda , Booking or Airbnb.

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

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

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

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14-Day Sicily Itinerary: An Epic Sicily Road Trip (+map)

Planning a two week Sicily road trip itinerary and looking for the most interesting places to visit, things to do, and the best route to take? I got you covered with my detailed 14 day Sicily itinerary (extendable to 16 days).

Although it is impossible to see absolutely everything on the biggest Italian island in just a couple of weeks or even one month, the good news is that two weeks in Sicily by car is enough time to visit different parts of the island . In just a couple of weeks, you can drive the perimeter of the island from west to east and north to south and see the best of Sicily’s natural and historical sights, and experience intriguing Sicilian culture .

From pristine Sicilian beaches and postcard-perfect coastal towns like Cefalù to the greatest baroque architecture of Val di Noto, chaotic but charming streets of Palermo, climbing the smoking Etna volcano, and wandering back in time through the alleyways of mysterious medieval villages in Madonie mountains, just to name a few highlights and must-visit places included to this two-week road trip in Sicily route .

Moreover, to help you easily plan an unforgettable trip, besides the best places to visit in Sicily and fantastic things to do , I also include driving distances and times , suggestions for accommodation, and great places to eat in each location. I also share some useful miscellaneous tips about traveling in Sicily.

Following my ultimate Sicily in 2 weeks itinerary, you will discover not only popular places but also many wonderful hidden gems where the authentic Sicilian experience unfolds.

Keep on reading to find out how to visit Sicily in two weeks and see the best of this Italian island!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

14-day Sicily itinerary

2 weeks in sicily road trip itinerary overview (14-16 days).

• DAY 1 Catania
• DAY 2 Agira and Gagliano Castelferrato
• DAY 3 Gangi (Madonie mountains)
• DAY 4 Cefalù
• DAY 5-6 Palermo
• DAY 7-8 Castellammare dell Golfo and Zingaro Nature reserve
• DAY 9 Favignana island
• DAY 10-11 Trapani
• DAY 12- 13 Ragusa (with an optional stop at Valley of Temples) and Modica
• DAY 14 Syracuse
• DAY 15 Etna hike (with an optional afternoon in Taormina)
• DAY 16 Catania (flight day)

Total distance: approx. 1158 km (720 miles)

Time on the road: approx. 18.5 hrs

Travel essentials for 2 weeks in Sicily, Italy

• My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Sicily is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Sicily from your location.
• Sleep: find your perfect accommodation in Sicily on Booking.com .
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe.

6 useful things to know before heading on a road trip to Sicily

1. how many days do you need to see the entire island of sicily.

You need at least 10 days to cover the full perimeter of Sicily at a quite fast pace. However, the reasonable amount would be a minimum of 14 days to see the highlights of Sicily at a medium pace, spending 1, 2, or 3 nights in each place of interest. Ideally, I would recommend 3 weeks to even a month for a slow-paced trip. This would allow exploring not only the mainland of Sicily but also include several days of island hopping on Aeolian islands.

2. What is the best way to get around Sicily?

The best and easiest way to independently explore Sicily is by car. Public transport connects bigger cities like Palermo, Catania, Syracuse, Agrigento, and Trapani. However, getting to the smaller towns, the transportation is not as frequent, and commuting time is much slower than by a car. Also, some wonderful mountain villages or secluded beaches are only accessible by private transport.

Therefore, renting a car for a trip to Sicily was a no-brainer for us. It also allows moving around at your own pace.

I found the best car rental prices for my road trip in Sicily with DiscoverCars.

Rent a Car in Sicily

Look for the best rates for your rental car at Discovercars.

RELATED READS: If you are wondering, what is it like to drive in Sicily , you may want to read my post about it here .

3. How long does it take to drive around Sicily?

Just to give you a rough idea of the driving times in Sicily, it takes approximately 3-4 hours to tackle around 300 km from East to West.

For example, Trapani to Catania is 3.5 hours drive (315 KM), and similarly, Palermo to Syracuse is 3 hours drive covering 260 KM. Going into the hinterland of Sicily may take around 1-2 hours from the coast, depending on the exact location. In general, driving in central Sicily through the mountain villages is slower than touring the main roads around the coast.

However, you won’t be driving long distances on this road trip every single day. In fact, there is only one day on this itinerary that requires a very long drive from Trapani to Ragusa with a stop in between.

4. Getting to Sicily

There are 3 main international airports in Sicily. You will most certainly land at one of them. They are located in Trapani in the West, Catania in the East, and Palermo (capital city of Sicily) in the North West.

It is also possible to reach Sicily by ferry. One of the main ports connecting Sicily to the mainland of Italy is Messina (the eastern part). This would be an entry point for those of you traveling by road from Southern Italy (as we did).

Also, there is a long-distance ferry from Napoli and Salerno which takes around 11 hours to reach Sicily at the port of Palermo.

5. Where should I go- East or West Sicily?

Your entry point to Sicily and the duration of your stay will most likely determine which part of the island you will choose to explore.

If you have anything less than 10 days to spare, focus either just on the Eastern or the Western part of the island. That being said, if you land in Catania, your best bet is to explore the eastern and southeastern parts of Sicily. On another hand, if you are landing in Palermo or Trapani, with limited time in mind, focus on the west and northwest side of the island. In this case, you will also have an option to add a day trip to Egadian islands which are just a short 30min ride by ferry from Trapani.

If you have a couple of weeks or more, you can then aim to tour the whole island.

• Related reads: 30+ Useful Sicily Travel Tips .

6. What is the best time to visit Sicily?

The best time to visit Sicily is from the end of April-May and September to the beginning of October. These months are the shoulder season for traveling in Sicily.

You can expect pleasant temperatures on the coast and very few tourists. Have in mind that the water in May can still be a little chilly but it is already suitable to swim. Meanwhile, the temperature in the mountains can drop as low as 8 degrees Celsius, so plan to take some layers.

In September, on another hand, water temperatures are perfect, keeping the warmth accumulated during the summer heat. Also, the national Italian holiday season (which is in August) is already over, so crowds are fewer and accommodation prices are lower.

I would suggest avoiding July and August if you can as those are the most expensive and busy months to travel in Sicily.

The off-season would be suitable for those of you who do not care about swimming and just want to enjoy Sicilian culture and food.

How much does it cost to travel in Sicily?

These are the main expenses for traveling around Sicily. The estimates are based on this 14-16 days road trip route, taking into account car rental, petrol, accommodation, food, and attractions.

• Petrol cost for two weeks- 185 EUR- based on the estimated distance of this route and petrol consumption of 8 L per 100 KM, with petrol price averaging at 2 EUR/L. (in Italy petrol prices range from 1.8 EUR to 2.2 EUR)
• Accommodation cos t – 50 EUR-150 EUR per night for 2 people.
• Car rental cost – 20 EUR per day (budget, but can be double or even more if booked last minute).
• Dinner (eating out)- 20-30 EUR per person with starter and main, and one drink.
• Pizza (any time of the day)- 5-12 EUR per pizza (depending on the place).
• Coffee- 1EUR for an espresso, 1.5EUR-2 EUR for a cappuccino or latte macchiato.
• Dolce (pastries)- 1EUR-3EUR per pastry.
• Soft drinks- 2 EUR for sparkling water or soft drinks like coca-cola at a bar/restaurant.
• Alcohol – 3-7 EUR for a glass of wine or an Aperol spritz.
• Museums/Churches – 3EUR-15EUR per entrance (the most we paid for the entrance was at Norman Palace in Palermo and Monreale Cathedral in Monreale).

The estimated average daily spending per person (based on a trip for 2 people) is around 110 EUR per day . Definitely, the cost can be higher or lower. The factor that can hugely influence the budget is accommodation and daily meals. The cost of petrol is more or less fixed, car rental is whatever the best deal you can get .

Our 2-week Sicily Road Trip Route Map

About this 2-week Sicily itinerary (14-16 days)

This itinerary for a 2-week road trip in Sicily is a loop starting and ending in Catania. Although originally, we travelled to Sicily from the South of Italy, crossing the strait of Messina from Villa San Giovani by ferry (with a car).

My Sicily itinerary is a bit unconventional compared to what you may find on other blogs. It focuses more on the off-the-beaten path places around the island rather than ticking off all the tourist hotspots. However, I still have included several popular and well-known destinations such as Cefalu seaside town, or the capital Palermo, for example.  

Following this route, in 14 days we visited a selection of amazing places in the east, north, west, and south of Sicily . At each destination, we spent 1 or 2 nights, depending on how many points of interest were in the area. Each day we tried to limit driving time to a couple of hours only. However, a couple of days are required to be on the road longer. Nonetheless, we made sure to have some nice pit stops along the way.

For a dynamic trip in Sicily experience, I included a mix of everything: beaches and mountains, nature reserves as well as atmospheric medieval hilltop towns, colorful markets, and cultural sights featuring the finest baroque architecture. That being said, it is a must to have a car to reach some of the locations on this Sicily road trip route.

At a glimpse at my 2-week itinerary, you may notice that some of the most popular touristic hotspots like Taormina, or Valley of Temples in Agrigento are not included (even though you can find them recommended in almost every blog and travel guide).

The reason behind my choice is that I prioritized more local experience, and exploring beyond the most famous attractions. If I had more time in Sicily, I might have stopped at some of those touristy places too.

Nonetheless, every traveler has different interests and preferences. Therefore, I still have mentioned the most popular sights in Sicily that you could add to your itinerary.

We traveled during the second and third week of May which proved to be a perfect time before the busy tourist season takes full swing.

Sicily in 2 weeks: road trip itinerary day by day

Day 1: catania (1 night).

If you land in Catania, your Sicily journey starts and ends in the second biggest town of Sicily. If you are not planning to spend more than one night in Catania at the beginning of your trip, I recommend immediately picking up your rental car at Catania airport (also returning it to the same airport will save a huge amount on your car rental costs).

In case you decide to allocate more time in Catania and are not planning on driving outside the city, then you can pick up your car later. I also recommend doing it at the airport as it is cheaper than in the city.

Nonetheless, having limited time in Sicily, I suggest spending a day in Catania itself for the main sights as there are so many more other interesting things to see in Sicily.

THINGS TO DO IN CATANIA

Catania is the second biggest city in Sicily (after the capital Palermo). Originally founded by Greeks in 729 BC, and later conquered by Romans around 250 BC, Catania, just like all of Sicily, underwent numerous conquests. Besides Greeks and Romans, Normans, Arabs, Byzantines, and Spaniards passed by leaving their footsteps.

As if that was not enough challenge, in the middle ages, the city was destroyed by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and then rebuilt in Baroque architecture style in the 18 th century.

Today Catania is a bustling town where you can experience an authentic urban lifestyle of Sicily, and admire some of the most impressive architecture.

Top tip: avoid driving in Catania. The town is walkable. Leave your car at the accommodation and go for a “passeggiata” (a nice stroll around the town in Italian).

Main things to do and see in Catania- quick list:

• Start from Piazza del Duomo (with the famous elephant fountain) and the Duomo di Catania (Catania Cathedral)
• Stop by at Pescheria- a local fish market, just behind the Piazza del Duomo. This particular activity would be interesting for street photographers. Note that it is quite a stinky and bloody experience. The fish market is open daily in the mornings (except on weekends).
• Take Via Etnea- a famous street from where you can see the famous Etna volcano in the background.
• Head to Piazza dell’Universita and explore pallazo dell’Universita and pallazo San Guiliano- two famous palaces in Catania
• If you still have more time, visit Villa Bellini Gardens characterized by its many fountains.
• Finally, if you love peeking into churches, then head to Via Crociferi  to see  the Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena .

If you prefer some guidance when visiting cities, then it is worth checking this Catania Walking Tour , or if you are a food lover, the Food tour of Catania by night offers some off-the-beaten path experiences.

WHERE TO STAY IN CATANIA?

There is no shortage of fantastic accommodation choices in Catania. After doing some research, I shortlisted the following B&B’s and apartments

Casa Verdi- House for Travelers – 9.7/10-beautiful rooms and dorms for travelers on a budget, 23 EUR/ 24.5 USD. Find out more HERE .

Living Suite Catania Pacini – 10/10- beautifully decorated rooms with ornamental tiles, featuring a private balcony. Central location close to Piazza del Duomo and other points of interest in Catania. 57 EUR / 62 USD per night. Click HERE for more info.

Minimal Chich Teatro Massimo Bellini – 10/10- as the name suggests this is a contemporary chic duplex apartment featuring an elevated bedroom accessible by a staircase, including a washing machine (a rare find), and is situated in the historic center of Catania. 96 EUR/103 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

Gorgeous Flat with Opera view- 10/10- truly pretty authentic one-bedroom apartment in a historic building in the heart of Catania. 152 EUR/ 163 USD. Find out more HERE .

Le Suited Del Duomo -9.3/10- right in the Piazza del Duomo, modern rooms with spa bath, 132 EUR/ 141 USD. Click HERE to book.

WHERE TO EAT IN CATANIA

When in Catania, stop by at Comis Ice Café for a fantastic gelato, pistachio granita, and awesome cannoli.

If you love to eat fish, Fishiaria restaurant has great reviews and yummy-looking dishes.

DAY 2: Agira and  Gagliano Castelferrato (overnight in Agira)

• Driving distance:  approx. 85 KM (53 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR 20 MIN
• Stops:  Gagliano Castelferrato

Gagliano Castelferrato

On the second day, head directly to the heart of Sicily following scenic roads with mount Etna views along the way. When I was looking for less explored places in Sicily, I have come across a magical town in Enna province called Gagliano Castelferrato (iron castle). Guarded by the craggy rock, the ancient town is said to be founded in 1900 BC, originally named Galaria.

Gagliano Castelferrato is not yet under the tourists’ radar but it has already been named one of the most beautiful villages in Italy ( Borghi più belli d’Italia ). Indeed, the name is well deserved taking into account the intriguing setup of the town that features a Gothic town center, an ancient rock castle, and splendid panoramic mountain views all around.

Nestled at the foothills of the imposing rock and surrounded by lush green valleys, Gagliano Castelferrato reminds me of Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa in the Basilicata region of South Italy.

A few things you can do in this small gorgeous mountain town of Sicily are to wander around its quiet streets and visit Chiesa Madre San Cataldo- the 14th-century church set atop the town with beautiful views all around.

Also, climb the Rocca Castle for even better panoramic views and a mini-workout. The ancient castle is carved directly into the rock backing up the town of Gagliano Castelferrato.

Initially, I was willing to spend a night in this magical place, however, there was no accommodation to be found. Therefore, I picked a place to sleep in the nearest town of Agira (6 KM from Gagliano Castelferrato).

Initially planned as an overnight spot, Agira turned out to be a picturesque age-old town perched atop the steep hill (mount Teja). I have to admit, we were pleasantly surprised to find out that our blindly picked mountain village is also a very charming medieval settlement boasting panoramic views of Mount Etna.

According to the legend, the village of Agira was founded before the Trojan war by Greeks in 1194 BC, and was originally called Agyrion, with the name derived from the violent Sicilian tyrant Agyris.

The lively historic town center is situated around the piazza Francesco Crispi and Parrocchia S. Antonio Da Padova church .

There are numerous churches worth visiting, including two fine Norman examples, the remains of an Arab-Byzantine fortress and a synagogue, testifying to the presence of a Jewish population several hundred years ago.

A little further away from the historic center, you can find a neighborhood of the Rocche di San Pietro which dates back to Arab times in Sicily. Called Arab Quarter, it is one of the last places in Sicily entirely attributable to Arab art.

Fun Fact: Apparently Agira was recently put back on the map due to an enormous Sicilia Outlet Village- a shopping town with over 100 boutiques dedicated to discounted fashion products from high-end brands such as Prada, Armani, Versace, and similar.

WHERE TO STAY IN AGIRA?

There are only a few accommodation options to choose from in Agira:

Talia – 9.5/10 cozy bright rooms with private bathroom and American breakfast. 72 EUR/ 77 EUR. Find out more HERE .

Case al Borgo- Agira Centre – 9.3/10 provides apartments around Agira, some with fantastic views overlooking the mountains, breakfast included. Management features the restaurant, free wi-fi, garden and a swimming pool. 89 EUR/ 95 USD. For more info click HERE .

Casa Albergo La Terza Stella – 8.4/10. We stayed here. Instead of a room as described on Booking, we got the whole one-bed apartment in the historic center of Agira. Run by a local photographer Franco (we suspect it was his own bachelor apartment) accommodation was simple but good enough for one night. A classic Italian breakfast of pastry and coffee was served at a bar downstairs. 60 EUR/64 USD. You can find out more HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN AGIRA?

Belvedere – a cheap restaurant offering local food on a terrace with fantastic panoramic views.

Bottega delle Cassatelle – a pastry shop that sells one of the best typical deserts in Sicily- Cassatelle di Agira – a pastry filled with chocolate and dried fruit. In fact, Agira town was the only place we could find this pastry and it is one of the best!

DAY 3: Gangi (1 night)

• Driving distance:  approx. 52 KM (32 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR 10 MIN
• Stops:  Sperlinga

On day 3, we make our way to one of my absolute favorite places in Sicily- a mysterious Gangi (pronounced “gan-chee”), located in the province of Palermo. Surrounded by spectacular Madonie mountains and overlooking mount Etna, the early days of Gangi are tied to the mythical Greek city of Engyon.

Named the most beautiful village in Italy , Gangi dates back to 1200 BC and was founded by Cretans. It was destroyed during the War of Sicilian Vespers and rebuilt approximately in the 1300s of this era. This is how we know the Gangi of today.

The town of Gangi raises up in layers of bright color houses glued side to side like a Lego game. While dozens of narrow cobblestone streets zigzag between the buildings leading your way up the Marone Mount, which is the base of Gangi.

Gangi is a true hidden gem filled with rich history and charm. Once a ghost village, selling abandoned homes for 1 EUR, today it seems to slowly come to life and gain a little bit of attention from a few curious travelers like myself.

At the time of our visit, Gangi was covered in fog. Although mount Etna was nowhere to be seen due to the weather, we will forever remember the mysterious atmosphere of the streets in the clouds.

RELATED READS: Check my complete guide to Gangi mountain town in Sicily, Italy .

Other places to visit near Gangi

Madonie mountains are home to many historical villages. You can easily base yourself in Gangi for a couple of nights and explore other frozen back-in-time medieval villages like Petralia Soprana, Petralia Sotanna, Polizzi Generose, or Sperlinga.  Also, Madonie mountains are a perfect place to have some wifi detox. Internet, although available in most of the accommodations, is as slow as the life of the mountain villages.

Finally, if walking up and down the steep cobblestone streets hasn’t made your legs tired yet, you can try some of the many hiking trails . There are some wonderful trekking routes of different lengths and difficulty levels in the Madonie National Park.

WHERE TO STAY IN GANGI?

B&B IL GALLETTO R. – 9.4/10- We stayed at this cozy and comfortable homestay with easy parking (important!) situated almost at the top of the town, in close proximity to the main historical parts and a couple of good local restaurants. Included breakfast was fantastic and plentiful (sweet as usual in Sicily). 50 EUR/ 54 USD per night. Click HERE for more info.

RESIDENCE VENTIMIGLIA – 9.6/10- modern and bright apartment in the heart of Gangi, features a terrace with mountain views and is a perfect option for a longer stay. It also includes a sweet Sicilian breakfast available to have in the café outside the apartment. 90 EUR/96 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN GANGI?

Baglio Tramontana -we had one of the best dinners in Sicily in this pizza restaurant which also offered a selection of different kinds of pasta (the porcini mushroom tagliatelle was incredible), and pizza was great as well.

Capricci di Gola – a pastry shop in the lower part of the town which had an amazing selection of different local sweets and coffee.

DAY 4: Cefal ù (1 night)

• Driving distance:  approx. 60 KM (37 miles)
• Suggested stops:  Castelbuono

On day 4 we left the misty Madonie mountains in search of sunshine. We headed to one of the most picturesque seaside towns in North Sicily- Cefalù . Nestled at the foothills of an imposing rock, and washed by the salty waters of the Tyrrhenian sea, Cefalù (pronounced shef-a-loo) is an ancient fishing port featuring a picture-perfect beach set against the old town walls.

Today Cefalù is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sicily , attracting thousands of sun-seekers during the summer months. Luckily we were traveling during the shoulder season, the beginning of May. But even at this time, the main street Corso Ruggero in the old town of Cefalù was quite busy. Especially at the Piazza del Duomo. It was packed with hundreds of visitors during the day.

Nonetheless, chilly water and stormy weather kept Spiaggia di Cefalù (Cefalù beach) completely empty. And since swimming was only for the bravest that day, we opted to explore the charming backstreets of the old town without the crowds.

Here are a few things you can do while in Cefalù:

• Enjoy the sunshine and swim at Spiaggia di Cefalù o(also called Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio -the iconic Cefalù beach backed by rustic old buildings) or Spiaggia Libera (free beach stretching along the promenade leading to the old town)
• Wander and get lost in the backstreets of the historical center in Cefalù. Here you will find plenty of gelaterias to grab a granita or brioche with gelato, and also countless souvenir shops and hidden restaurants.
• Sip a coffee at the bustling Piazza del Duomo . This is the most touristic spot in Cefalù. But if crowds are not your scene, come to Piazza del Duomo after sunset- the plaza is empty and Duomo during the blue hour looks way more magical than during the day.
• Hike up La Rocca di Cefalù to Castello di Cefalù (castle) for wonderful views of the orange roofs of the old town and a coastline stretching all the way to Palermo in the west and Capo d’Orlando in the east (284 m elevation gain).
• Find the medieval wash house ( lavatoio medievale ) located on Via Vittorio Emanuelle . Wrapped in a myth of being built of the river flowing with tears of a nymph who cried over her dead lover, Lavatoio is a wonderful example of the life in Cefalù back in old days.
• Catch the sunset at the old harbor of Cefalù. This place is magically beautiful. I simply couldn’t put my camera away. The dramatically dark clouds rolling over La Rocca with the sun casting over the facades of old buildings is a dream come true scene for photography lovers. The best iconic views can be caught at the end of the cement outcrop stretching into the sea from the small harbor beach.

WHERE TO STAY IN CEFALU?

Cefalù is one of the most popular places to visit in Sicily, therefore booking accommodation well in advance is strongly recommended. Prices of accommodation are also higher than in other places around Sicily. If you are driving, I recommend looking for a place NOT in the historic center but somewhere nearby within a walking distance. Also, check if the hotel or homestay offers free parking, if at all.

Villa Margherita – 9/10 – We stayed here. Villa turned mini-hotel with a very helpful owner who even spoke English (not common in Sicily). Great breakfast was included (with savory options too). Villa has a big private inner yard to park your car safely and the historic town is no more than 10 min away, beach just a few steps away. 102 EUR/ 110 USD for the month of June (was slightly cheaper in May). Click HERE for more info.

Amori di Sicilia – 10/10- 2-bedroom apartment. If you are looking for fully equipped accommodation in the historical center of Cefalu, maybe for a longer stay, this might be a good option. Downside- no parking available.111 EUR/ 120 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

Hotel La Plumeria – 8.8/10- Hotel at the heart of Cefalu, offering rooms with fantastic balconies overlooking the old town, towers of Duomo and La Rocca, free parking, continental breakfast included. 152 EUR/ 163 USD per night. Find more info HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN CEFALU?

Options of places to eat in Cefalù old town are countless. However, the best places with fewer tourists are always in the backstreets and not on the main road. Via Carlo Ortolani di Bordonaro, almost at the back of the old town has some hidden away cozy places, some of them set on the seafront.

• Al Ristoro Di Re Ruggero is one of them-offers warm and welcoming service and great local food.
• Squagghio Icecream is also on Via Carlo Ortolani di Bordonaro. This was our gelateria to go with one of the most amazing real mango ice creams I ever had in my life (the second one was in Portugal).

DAY 5-6: Palermo (2 nights)

• Driving distance:  approx. 76 KM (47 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR 30 MIN
• Stops:  Sant’Elia, Aspra

The rough, unpolished, crumbling down, loud and chaotic but undeniably charismatic Palermo is a complete contrast to everything else I saw in Sicily.

In the capital of Sicily, you can experience authentic unfiltered city life. You see people hustling to make their living at the doorsteps of the most enchanting gold-plated churches, and head-spinning palaces. Quite a number of immigrants from Africa and Bangladesh are calling Palermo their home- something you don’t find in small towns of Sicily.

Wide streets dotted with glorious architecture, busy markets, billions of bars and street food stalls, dodgy alleyways, beggars, completely confused tourists, religious ceremonies- there were so many things going on at the same time in Palermo.

Surprisingly, spending a couple of days in Palermo was like a fresh breather and a curiosity boost after the sleepy mountain towns and slow-paced fishing villages.

Things you can do in Palermo:

• Treat your senses with sounds, smells, sights, and flavors at Ballaro morning market . Coming to full life at around 10-11 AM, a colorful and authentic like back in old days market will offer quite an entertainment. The highlight is the cheerful vendors shouting and singing serenades about their strawberries. You can find fantastic street food, bread, vegetables, meat, fish, home utensils, and clothes- they sell it all at the best prices at Ballaro in Palermo.
• Visit the famous architectural monuments- Cathedral of Palermo, Palace of Normans with golden mosaics of Palatine chapel , admire the red domes of the  St. John of the Hermits church, Martorana and Santa Caterina Churches and fountain of shame ( Fontana Pretoria ).
• Stroll through pedestrian streets of Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Via Maqueda intersecting at Quattro Canti (four corners)- the heart of the historic district of Palermo.
• Try as much street food in Palermo as you can because it is said to be the best in the world! You will find famous arancini with all sorts of fillings (not only the usual meat).
• Drive to Monreale for the impressive Unesco listed Monreale cathedral and the best bread in the region. Built in the 12th century, Monreale cathedral and its cloister contain the largest concentration of Norman, Arab and Byzantine art in one building. 2200kg of gold were used to create Monreale mosaics depicting scenes of the New and the Old Testament. Undoubtedly, those Byzantine mosaics are one of the most magnificent in the world. We have spent almost an hour just admiring the craftsmanship and detailing. Once you finish exploring the cathedral, head to any Panetteria (bakery) in town to buy some delicious Monreale bread- it was definitely the nicest one we had in Italy.
• Visit nearby seaside towns . We stopped at Aspra and Sant’Ellia when driving from Cefalù to Palermo- those are small fishing villages with a fantastic atmosphere, and opportunities to swim and meet locals.

Top Tip: Park your car at the accommodation and walk. Driving in Palermo is a bad idea due to traffic. Also, the historic center is easily walkable. If you stay a little bit outside of the historic center, it is a good idea to catch a public bus or a taxi just to avoid the headache of driving and looking for parking.

WHERE TO STAY IN PALERMO?

LA CASETTA NORMANNA – 10/10- Apartment located in the historical center of Palermo, with free parking and a garden. 100 EUR/ 109 USD per night. Click HERE for more info and the latest prices.

Ai Tre Mercati – 9.6/10- Bright simple rooms with balcony, close to Ballaro market and other historical center attractions, excellent Italian and continental breakfast included, very helpful and knowledgeable host (which is a bonus, especially in Palermo). 114 EUR/122 USD per night. Find out more HERE .

Storie di Palermo – 9.1/10- Accommodation is located in the historical center of Palermo close to Fontana Pretoria and Palermo Cathedral. Huge rooms are decorated with beautiful colorful tiles. 82 EUR/ 88 USD per night. Check for more info HERE .

N’Amuri di Casa – 10/10- simple but cozy one-bedroom apartment (can host up to 4 people) in the historical center of Palermo features a small balcony and offers free parking. 90 EUR/ 97 USD. Find out more HERE .

CATHEDRAL VIEW APARTMENTS -9.6/10- absolutely stunning and spacious 2-bedroom apartment in a historical building with a balcony opening up to the views of Palermo Cathedral. 335 EUR/360 USD per night. Check for more info HERE .

What to eat in Palermo

• All sorts of arancini. A classic one has the meat filling. However, in Palermo, you can find many different types of fillings to choose from- mozzarella, salmon, swordfish, mushroom, and many more.
• Try different types of seafood. A great place to and value is at Ballaro market where you can pick your treat from the many different stalls. You can also find cozy market restaurants with colorful covers where you can break for delicious semi-street food lunch.
• Cassata siciliana al forno at Caffè del Kàssaro . My favorite Sicilian cake, as usual with ricotta. But this one is different from the rest I have tried in Sicily.

DAY 7-8: Castellammare del Golfo and Lo Zingaro Nature reserve (2 nights in Castellammare del Golfo)

• Stops:  Monreale Cathedral

A couple of days in busy Palermo was just a perfect amount of time for us, although you could spend there much longer, or make it as a base for visiting nearby attractions.

Now we are heading North West with a short stop inland at Monreale Cathedral and back on the coast to the seaside town of Castellammare del Golfo. It will be our base for 2 nights. The main plan here is to hike Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve . The entrance to the reserve is conveniently located only 15 min drive away from Castellammare del Golfo.

Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve is Sicily’s first protected area established in 1981. It features several nature trails. One of the most popular is a relatively easy 7km one-way (14 km round trip) trail above the coast with 6 wild beaches you can stop at for a swim. Lo Zingaro became popular recently and is definitely one of the most visited natural places in Sicily due to its spectacular panoramas.

Entrance fee: 5 EUR per person per day, opening hours from 7 AM to 5 PM during the summer months and 8 AM to 4 PM off-season (winter, late autumn).

Top tip: bring snacks and water because there are no supplies along the trail except one sandwich kiosk at the South entrance side. Also, although doable in several hours, you might want to dedicate almost a full day to Lo Zingaro as you may not notice the time spent sunbathing and swimming in crystal clear waters.

RELATED READS: Make sure to also check my full guide to Lo Zingaro nature reserve in Sicily, Italy .

Castellammare del Golfo

Named after the seafront castle ( Castello Arabo Normanno ) overlooking a large gulf, Castellammare del Golfo was founded in the 6 th century BC Elymians as a commercial port.

The slopping streets and staircases of the Castellammare lead to the picturesque marina (old harbor) dotted with fishing boats and small fancy yachts. Seeing so many fishing boats docked around, you can naturally expect to find some great fresh seafood restaurants. Choices of which are plentiful in Castellammare.

There is no shortage of sandy and pebble beaches in the area of Castellamare del Golfo. The most accessible is Cala Petrolo beach situated east of the historical center. I wouldn’t recommend swimming there; it didn’t look clean and the setup of the massive concrete wall behind was not appealing at all.

Instead, head further east to Spiaggia Playa (around a 20min walk from the old town)- a long stretch of sandy beach backed by many restaurants and cafes. Spiaggia Playa is a swimming place loved by locals and gets busy during the peak summer months.

Alternatively, drive 10 minutes West of Castellammare del Golfo to the wild beaches Cala Bianca or Cala Rosa. You will have to navigate your way from the main road to one of the hidden turns leading to those pristine beaches.

Head to Belvedere Castellamare del Golfo for scenic views overlooking the town and stretching as far as Palermo.

WHERE TO STAY IN CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO?

Le Sette Meraviglie – 9.7/10 – simple and bright one-bedroom apartments with balcony and sea view, offer free parking. 94 EU/101 USD. Find out more and book HERE .

B&B Nencioli – 9.8/10 – nicely decorated spacious rooms with balconies are offered in this B&B which is also located in the historic center of Castellamare del Golfo. Continental breakfast is also included. And served at a terrace with a beautiful view, free parking included. 109 EUR/117 EUR per night. Find out more and book HERE .

Atrium – 9.8/10 -located 10 min walk from the beach, the accommodation offers elegant rooms with terrace or balcony, free parking, shared kitchen, and exceptional continental breakfast included. 88 EUR/ 94 USD per night. Find out more and book HERE.

Santina -9.5/10 – bright fresh rooms, fantastic seaside views, and great terrace, free parking and breakfast included. 264 EUR/ 283 USD per night. Find out more and book HERE .

Gastronomical tip: try cassatelle – ricotta and chocolate-chip-filled pastry in a sweet dhow, usually deep-fried. It is a specialty of Castellammare del Goflo, and you can find it all around the town. Our host in Palermo recommended roadside bar La Sorgente which specializes in cassatelle pastries. Trust me they are really good, so we came back multiple times.

DAY 9: Favignana (Egadian islands) (1 night)

• Driving distance:  approx. 42 KM (26 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 50 MIN
• Parking:  Leaving the car for the night in Trapani

The time spent in Castellammare del Golfo and Lo Zingaro was slow-paced and relaxed. To extend our semi-chilled vacation(considering that we always move around and explore places), we decided to spend one night in Favignana . It is located on the west coast and is reachable by 30 min ferry ride from Trapani.

Favignana is the largest of the three Egadian islands, but still small enough to tour its aquamarine beaches on an old-school bicycle. The other two islands are tiny Levanzo and the wild one- Marettimo.

Favignana can be paralleled to the laid-back island life of the Caribbeans – a perfect place just to do nothing, go on a slow beach hopping with many stops for an ice-fresh granita.

For this reason, the best way to explore Favignana island is by bicycle, electronic bike, or scooter. There are countless rental spots ( Noleggio Bici e Motorini ) just outside the ferry port and in the old town.

Things to do on Favignana island

• Beach hopping. The noteworthy ones are Calla Rosa, Calla Azzurra, Spiaggia Lido di Burrone, and our favorite the unique Bue Marino- an old query turned beach with impossibly blue waters.
• Catch the sunset at Cala Rotonda located on the western part of the island which was completely wild and scenery wise reminded me of the Turkish side of Cyprus.
• Just do nothing- it is an island to slow down, sip some aperitivo, coffee, or granita- whatever your preference is. A perfect place for that is tiny Favignana’s historical center, the Piazza Europa- one of the two main old town squares (the other one just 50 meters away is Piazza Madrice).
• Try street food- tuna burgers to be specific. Pescheria Florio at the corner of Piazza Europa is a place to go (we ate there countless times during our 1.5-day stay).
• If you have more time, catch a boat to Levanzo island and spend a couple of hours there. Marettimo is further away, with fewer daily connections, and also the wildest out of all 3 islands. You should visit it if you have more than a night in Fivignana.

READ MORE: my complete guide to Favignana and Egadi islands, Sicily .

Top tip: if you are arriving in a rental car, park it for the night in a large parking lot at Piazza Vittorio Emanuele in Trapani. It wouldn’t make sense to bring the car to Favignana- costly and you won’t need it. Parking in Trapani costs only 5 EUR for a day (and that’s the maximum you can pay in one shot). Therefore, if you are visiting the Egadian islands only for one night and need to leave your car in Trapani, this is a perfect option. Note that you will have to walk 15 minutes to the ferry from the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele parking lot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FAVIGNANA?

Cave Garden Roo ms- 9.7/10- we stayed here and it was amazing-located a few kilometers inland but free pick up and drop off from the ferry is provided. If you planning on renting a bike, it is a perfect place to stay. The family-run hotel features special cave rooms which are very modern and extremely comfy beds. The place was very peaceful, the breakfast amazing, and the hosts were absolutely incredible. Highly recommend! 60 EUR/64USD per night. Check for more info, availability, and booking HERE .

Residence Scirocco e Tramontana – 9.3/10 – Fantastic one-bedroom apartment with beach vibes, overlooking the sea and close to the ferry port. 155 EUR/166 USD per night. Check for more info, availability, and booking HERE .

Casa Vacanze Senia Del Rais – 9.4/10 – vacation house, located inland of Favignana, free pick up and drop off from the port is included. 147 EUR/ 158 USD per night. Check for more info, availability, and booking HERE .

DAY 10-11: Trapani (2 nights)

• Driving distance:  approx. 90 KM (56 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 2 HRS
• Visiting:  Erice and San Vito Lo Capo

Trapani is the biggest port town in West Sicily which also has an airport. On my first visit to Sicily back in 2016, Trapani was where I landed. The old town of Trapani isn’t huge and features an atmospheric waterfront facing the west side (great for sunsets). You probably won’t need more than half a day to explore Trapani’s historic center at a slow pace.

Top Tip: Trapani is a perfect base for exploring Western Sicily because many attractions are within a 30min to 1-hour drive.

Things to do around Trapani

• Visit Erice- a mountain-top town frozen back in time.

You may wonder if, after seeing a few mountain towns of Madonie, you really need to see another one. The answer is yes. Erice is absolutely unmissable on your Sicily trip and it is different from what you may have seen before.

Erice is a well-preserved medieval town, with narrow cobblestone streets winding up and down, pretty piazzas, churches, castles, and incredible views overlooking Trapani on one side and Monte Cofano Natural Reserve on the other. Driving the classic hairpin mountain road, you will find Erice situated 751 meters above sea level and often covered in its personal cloud. To catch the misty views, and great light, and to avoid crowds (tour buses start floating in at around 9 am) aim to come early morning. Also, you can come for an evening stroll with an opportunity to catch a beautiful sunset.

There are quite a few wonderful viewing points around the whole perimeter of Erice. But one of the best ones opens up from Gardino del Balio – the garden next to Balio Castle (which is also open for visitors).

Useful Tip: if you are not keen on driving the windy roads, you can take a cable car from Trapani. A round trip costs 9 EUR per person). Coming back during the sunset time by cable car is also a fantastic experience.

• Visit Monte Cofano Natural Reserve.

Heading up north towards San Vito Lo Capo, Monte Cofano Nature Reserve is home to some of the best sceneries in Sicily. You can go on a light hike around the Reserve, or stop at one of the less crowded beaches in Macari (Spiaggia di Macari) . An interesting detour is Grotta Mangiapane – a tiny cave village turned museum. The cost for the visit is a donation of your chosen amount.

• Visit San Vito Lo Capo beach .

San Vito lo Capo located at the very northwestern tip of the island is considered one of the best beaches in Sicily. No wonder it became a popular summer destination as it features a long stretch of white sand beach dotted with colorful umbrellas and divided into free and private sections.

A number of bars and restaurants dotted along Via Lotaranea Lungomare, plus fantastic views of the nearby mountain is a full package for those who love bustling seaside towns.

I have to admit San Vito Lo Capo wasn’t my cup of tea- it was just a little too busy even in May. But I can see why it is a great hangout spot, especially for teenagers and students, and also families since the sea access is quite shallow.

Dessert Tip: When in San Vito Lo Capo, try “fredo caldo” desert at Cavalluccio Marino coffee bar. Couscous is also a specialty there but I didn’t particularly enjoy that dish.

• Visit Segesta temple

Well-preserved and based in gorgeous surroundings, Segesta temple and the theatre are the remains of a former ancient city founded by Elymes. Segesta is 30 min drive from Trapani. The visit will cost you roughly 12 EUR. There is a separate fee for the shuttle bus taking visitors to the site. You must leave your car at a paid parking and also pay a 6 EUR entrance fee for visiting the temple and theater.  Note that the theater is located a little bit higher up on Mount Barbaro 400 meters above sea level. If you are not keen on walking, there is another shuttle bus for 1.5 EUR one way which can take you there.

• Visit Favignana island on a day trip. If you don’t want to spend a night in Favignana, Trapani is a perfect base for a day trip to the Egadian islands. Connections from Trapani to Favignana are frequent and you can enjoy a relaxed day without having to spend the night.

WHERE TO STAY IN TRAPANI?

Le Cupole Suits & Apartments – 9.7/10- spacious minimalistic and bright apartments in the heart of Trapani with private parking available. 101 EUR/108 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Tra I Mari – 9.7/10- One-bedroom house in the historic center of Trapani with free parking available, perfect for a longer stay in Trapani. 116 EUR/ 125 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Room of Andrea Hotel – 9.2/10- a boutique hotel offering elegant rooms in the historic center of Trapani, buffet breakfast included. 162 EUR/174 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Dimora Botteghelle – 9.5/10- charming B&B with beautiful rooms featuring traditional arched stone walls, 1 min walk from the beach in Trapani historical center. 128 EUR/ 136 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

WHERE TO EAT IN TRAPANI?

Boca Pizzeria Trattoria – not exactly in Trapani old town but only 10 min drive in Rigaletta town. This place was my number one Pizzeria in Sicily serving super delicious pizzas on focaccia type of dough with a very generous amount of toppings. Sevice was unmatched considering how busy this place in the middle of nowhere gets. Reservation in advance is recommended. We came without one but super-efficient restaurant manager made sure to get us a table in under 10 minutes.

DAY 12- 13: Ragusa and Modica (2 nights in Ragusa)

• Driving distance:  approx. 313 KM (194 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 4 HRS 50 MIN
• Stops: Punta Bianca
• Alternative stop: Valley of Temples

This leg of the journey is the longest on our road trip. We will be heading from Trapani to the baroque gem Ragusa . Along the way, I have included an off-the-beaten-path stop at Punta Bianca – a rival to the more well-known Scali dei Tuchi (Turkish Steps) in Agrigento province.

Alternative detour: If you are keen on history, ruins, and temples, then along the way, instead of Punta Bianca, you can stop at the famous Valley of Temples in Agrigento . We were not too keen on visiting this tourist sight and only witnessed it from afar while driving on SS115 road. It was quite a bizarre view- an ancient Temple of Concordia backed by the soviet type of urban landscape of Agrigento.

Instead of Valley of Temples, we chose to explore quite an unusual sight of Punta Bianca- a unique white rock beach with a lonely abandoned house. It was a bumpy off-road drive to the parking spot, and a short 500 meters walk down the steep hill to the beach.

The views here are different from what we saw everywhere in Sicily. With beautiful natural surroundings, Punta Bianca is a great stop for photography lovers. I advise coming during the sunset (we were there during midday, and even at that time the scenery looked impressive).

We spent a good couple of hours shooting and trying to swim at Punta Bianca (it is not ideal for swimming, although there is another beach nearby that looked more suitable for swimming).

Important: Don’t step in the small bushes in this area. We saw a black long snake hiding and apparently, there are a lot of them in the area. Nothing to worry about, just avoid those small bushes and stick to the clear sandy paths.

Ragusa is one of the UNESCO baroque towns that belong to Val Di Noto – a crown jewel of southeast Sicily and an absolute must-visit.

The town of two souls-Ragusa is divided into the modern city and the ancient Ragusa Ibla- the baroque lounge. The split of the town happened after the 1693 earthquake. Ragusa Superior, today known as the modern Ragusa, was rebuilt based on efficiency, while the prettier and more atmospheric Ragusa Inferior or Ragusa Ibla (the lower part of town) was rebuilt in baroque style and now is a quickly growing tourism magnet.

Still, it doesn’t seem to be completely discovered and you can pleasantly enjoy the maze of Ragusa’s street free of crowds.

The main architectural landmark of Ragusa is Duomo di San Giorgio . The piazza surrounding the Duomo comes alive at night with its many bars and restaurants where you can have a drink or dinner.

Meanwhile, the iconic views of Ragusa Ibla can be seen from Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Scale (the church of Saint Mary of the Stairs).

The most pleasant time to explore Ragusa is early mornings when the streets are completely empty. At this time, you will only meet a few elderly people gathering at a local cafeteria sipping espresso and reading newspapers (and probably being the last generation to actually read old-school newspapers in this digital era).

While at sunset, head for the viewing point at Panoramica su Ragusa Ibla to watch the golden hues of the sunset painting the buildings followed by the street lights slowly illuminating the alleyways and churches.

Read my complete Guide to Visiting Ragusa: Sicily’s town of two faces.

Modica- the town of chocolate

Modica is another town that belongs to Val di Noto and is particularly famous for its special cold-processed chocolate. Being a huge fan of dark chocolate, I headed directly to the oldest chocolate factory in town- Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, and joined their chocolate tour (with tasting included).

Other than plenty of typical Modica chocolate places, Modica is also renowned for its great baroque architecture. One of the most important architectural masterpieces is the Duomo di San Giorgio . 250 steps leading to it are connecting the lower (basa) and upper (alta) parts of Modica.

Most of the historical part is located in Modica Alta. Therefore there are plenty of steep inclines to deal with. We visited during midday and it was quite a challenge to walk around. Even in mid-May, the heat is already unbearable. For this, we found a cozy Bar del Duomo on the side of Duomo di San Giorgio and ordered chocolate granitas (a must-try in Modica) to cool down.

Other places to add to the itinerary of Val di Noto

• Noto town. We haven’t included Noto in this itinerary but it is probably the most famous town out of all Val di Noto Baroque towns. It is said to be the most beautiful at sunset time when the buildings of the historic town are glowing in golden light.
• Scicli is the smallest town in Val di Noto and can be added to the day trip from Ragusa via Modica as all three towns are relatively close by.

WHERE TO STAY IN RAGUSA?

When choosing our accommodation in Val di Noto, I couldn’t decide between Modica and Ragusa. It turned out that picking Ragusa as our base was the best choice as the town itself is also more charming than Modica. Therefore, if you also have doubts, go for Ragusa.

Amaca Iblea – 9.3/10- A cozy one-bedroom apartment in a historic building featuring fantastic views of Ragusa Ibla. We stayed here and it was one of my favorite places in Sicily. Parking is free but not easy to find in the old town, however, the host will help to sort this out. 53 EUR/57 USD per night. For more info, availability and bookings click HERE .

Epoca – 9.6/10- enchanting rooms in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, has beautiful terrace and breakfast is included, free parking is also available. 132 EUR, 141 USD per night. For more info, availability and booking click HERE .

Giardino Sul Duomo – 9.3/10- modern rooms with wood-beamed ceilings in a guesthouse offering a garden and a pool, a great view of Ragusa Ibla, and some rooms overlooking the Cathedral. 134 EUR/ 144 USD per night. For more info, availability and booking click HERE .

A.D. 178 Boutique Hotel – 9.7/10- gorgeous boutique hotel perfectly combining art, contemporary design, and classic Baroque architecture. Each room is also different. Located at the very heart of Ragusa Ibla. 200 EUR/213 USD per night. For more info, availability and booking click HERE .

From Day 14 our route was meant to continue back to South Italy, through Messina port. We only shortly stopped at a tiny hill-top town of Savoca where some of the Godfather’s scenes were filmed.

However, if we had 3 more days to spare in Sicily, the places suggested below would have been definitely added to the route.

As you may have more time than us, it is likely that you will definitely want to include the following must-visit sights in East Sicily.

DAY 14: Ortigia Island (the historic center of Syracuse) (overnight in Syracuse/Ortigia)

• Driving distance:  approx. 77 KM (47 miles) Ragusa-Syracuse.

The gem of the Eastern part of Sicily is the baroque island of Ortigia (or Ortygia) – in a lack of a better word-an appendix or an extension of the Greek town of Syracuse. 

Pedestrian-friendly Ortigia is renowned for its cultural heritage with a significant Greek influence. A UNESCO landmark, Ortigia was inhabited for over 3000 years and plays an important role in shaping the Mediterranean culture over the centuries.

Today, Ortigia attracts many culture lovers who will have a delightful time exploring its exquisite piazzas with impressive church facades and suggestive tiny streets. Whitewashed sun-kissed houses surrounded by crystalline sea and many restaurants are said to serve the food just as good as the one in Palermo.

Moreover, Ortigia is less touristy than Taormina and more polished than Catania.

Meanwhile, mainland Syracuse is the birthplace of Archimedes (a famous mathematician, philosopher, and inventor) with Neapolis Archeological Park , home to 5 century BC Greek theater, being an important historical attraction. While Valley of Temples in Agrigento is the most significant site showcasing how strong Greek influence was in south-east Sicily, the ruins of Neapolis in Syracuse come close to second.

WHERE TO STAY IN ORTIGIA?

For your reference, and also for my future visit, I have shortlisted the following accommodation options to stay in Ortigia.

Il Duomo – 9.4/10- set in a 19th-century building this accommodation provides good value for money for the central location, a sweet breakfast is also included. 94 EUR/101 USD price per night. Find out more info, availability, and bookings HERE.

B&B Porta Marina Ortigia – 9.2/10- Located in a historical building, the B&B offers classic rooms with balconies and sea views. A sweet and savory breakfast is also included. 152 EUR/ 163 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and bookings.

Henry’s House – 8.9/10- Located in Ortigia, this unique boutique hotel provides artistically decorated rooms and offers a special experience. A terrace overlooking the sea is available in the common area. Pricey option but definitely popular and different.  246 EUR/ 264 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and bookings.

DAY 15: Etna hike (afternoon in Taormina) (overnight in Taormina or Catania)

• Driving distance:  approx. 156 KM (97 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 2 HR 46 MIN (estimated time if the night is spent in Taormina)

Etna – Europe’s most active volcano , constantly keeping inhabitants of the surrounding villages on edge.  You have probably seen pictures of the mighty volcano spitting lava flames and fuming like a giant dragon.

The active volcano is not something you aim to conquer but you can still take a careful glimpse at its crater from afar. The highest point you can reach in Etna is 3326 meters above sea level.

You have 3 options to visit Etna:

• Self-guided hike (cheapest but hardest option) starting at the base camp of Rifugio Sapienza at 1910 m above sea level. Here you can park your car and start a grueling 1416 meters climb over challenging terrain with very steep inclines.  Recommended only for confident and fit hikers.
• Semi-self-guided hike. You can cut off the grind by taking a cable car from Rifugio Sapienza to 2500 m base (33 EUR per person round trip), and then a 4×4 bus to 2920m (24 EUR per person round trip). From here you will only have to hike the crater area.
• Guided tour . Apparently, the most popular way to visit Etna volcano. The prices of guided tours range significantly. Possibly one of the best deals is this one on Get Your Guide (only 45 EUR per person, not including cable car cost).

It will take you around half a day to visit Etna volcano. After, you have an option either to return to Catania or spend the night there before your flight (depending on your schedule). Or, visit Taormina as an afternoon trip, or even spend a night there before you head back to Catania airport the next day.

Taormina is the most famous mountain town in Sicily featuring an imposing Greek theatre set against the beautiful panorama of the Sicilian coast. It is also the most touristic town in Eastern Sicily. Although Taormina looks pretty in the pictures, we had no intention of visiting it on our trip mainly because of it being overrun by tourists (we experienced over-tourism in Positano, and it was just not for us).

Nonetheless, there is a reason people come to visit certain places.  Undoubtedly Taormina must have its charms and spending a night there might give you an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset and stroll tourist-free old town streets during the early morning or late evening hours.

Since you are in the area, it is also worth stopping by Savoca- a tiny hill-top town famous for the Bar Vitelli , where one of the famous scenes of the Godfather movie was filmed. Note that the bar itself is heavily overpriced, but if you are a fan of the film, it is worth having an espresso in this special place which still keeps the original setup as seen in Godfather.

WHERE TO SPEND A NIGHT IN TAORMINA?

Taormina won’t come cheap as it is a very popular destination. However, there are plenty of options not immediately in the historic center. The below ones got my attention:

B&B GRECO HOME – 9.8/10- beautiful bright room in an accommodation that also offers a common terrace, and continental breakfast, and only 950 meters to the beach is included, private parking is also available. 112 EUR/ 120 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and booking.

Villa Le Terrace Charming Rooms- 9.5/10- situated outside the busy Taormina historic center Villa Le Terrace features a fantastic terrace with mount Etna views. Rooms also have balconies with a fantastic panorama. 160 EUR/ 170 USD per night. Click HERE for more info, availability, and booking.

DAY 16: Catania (flight day)

• Driving distance:  approx. 70 KM (43 miles)
• Total driving time:  approx. 1 HR  (driving time from Taormina to Catania International Airport)

And that’s a wrap for our Sicilian road trip, sadly…  But with a strong feeling that we will soon be coming back to this gorgeous Mediterranean island of Italy.

I hope you will find this 14-day Sicily itinerary inspiring and useful when planning your own Sicily road trip. If you have any questions regarding traveling around Sicily, do not hesitate to drop me a message.

More Italy travel guides and resources

Sicily travel guides.

• Useful Tips for Renting a Car in Sicily and Driving Stress-Free
• Renting a car in Catania, Sicily
• Renting a car in Palermo: what you need to know
• Epic Road Trip for 2-weeks in Sicily itinerary
• Essential Sicily Travel Tips .
• 21 spectacular places to visit in Sicily 
• How to visit Favignana island, Sicily
• Guide to hiking Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve
• Visit Gangi mountain town in Sicily
• The most beautiful small coastal towns and fishing villages in Sicily.
• The most charming mountain towns in Sicily .
• Which is better: Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

General Italy travel guides

• Browse all my  blog posts about Italy   HERE .
• Looking for romantic road trip ideas in Italy? Check my list of  15 Best Road Trips in Italy.
• Thinking of renting a car in Rome? Read my guide to  How to rent a car in Rome .
• Explore Calabria- the least visited region in Italy.
• Visit Sicily- the biggest island in Italy.

Italy travel resources

Here are links to essential travel resources and services I always use when organizing my trips.

• HIRE A CAR : Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: find the cheapest and the best flight combinations with Skyscanner .
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide , outdoor tours and activities with Manawa .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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SICILY , ITALY

1 week in sicily: the ultimate 7 day sicily itinerary.

Planning to visit Sicily? Fantastic! Short on time? No problem! If you only have 1 week in Sicily, then I highly recommend visiting a single region (maybe two) instead of trying to cram too much in. Depending on which airport you arrive at, you may want to choose to explore the East, West or Southern areas of Sicily. The below 7 day Sicily itinerary focuses on the East Coast of the island where many of the island’s top sights are located.

Table of Contents

ONE WEEK IN SICILY – WHERE TO GO AND IS IT ENOUGH TIME?

You know the saying, so much to see, so little time? This definitely applies if you only have a week in Sicily. As the largest island in the Mediterranean, there is certainly a lot of ground to cover, with plenty of beautiful beaches, hilltop towns, Baroque cities and a host of architectural ruins to explore. To travel around and visit the whole island, you’ll need at least two weeks.

Thats not to say that you can’t enjoy some of Sicily’s highlights in a week. In the ten years that I have been visiting Sicily, we’ve spent as little as a week and as much as three weeks exploring the island. But trying to fit too much into a week is exhausting. Sicily has a very laid back feel and as such, you should embrace the slower pace of life when visiting. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

For this reason the below 7 day Sicily itinerary focuses on the Eastern Coast of Sicily where many of the “top” sights of Sicily can be found.

Note that this 1 week Sicily itinerary is best suited for individuals who are happy to visit 1 or 2 places a day and are comfortable moving hotels frequently.

If you prefer a slower pace, you can still follow the itinerary below, however you may want to consider finding a central hotel or villa base close to Catania and then picking and choosing which sights you want to see from the days below. All destinations (including Agrigento) are within a 2 hours drive from Catania.

Choose a base or stay at multiple places?

If you’re not a fan of moving from pillar to post during your holidays, then choosing one place to base yourself may suit you. If you choose to do this, I highly recommend choosing a small town out of the main cities. This will not only be cost-effective, but you’ll also more likely to enjoy and experience Sicily at its authentic best. Bare in mind that by choosing a single place to stay, you will certainly end up driving longer distances to see sights and places of interest however as I mentioned above, no destination in this 7 day Sicily itinerary is more than a 2 hour drive from Catania.

If you choose to do a multi-stop trip during your week in Sicily, then I strongly recommend again that you carefully pick your accommodations. Places such as Taormina, Ortigia (Syracuse) and the centre of Catania will come at a premium cost. Therefore if you’re looking to visit Sicily on a budget, consider staying at nearby locations instead.

How to get to Sicily?

Sicily has two main international airports. Palermo Airport is located in the north of Sicily. Palermo is the island’s largest city and you’ll want to fly into Palermo if you want to explore the north and western parts of Sicily.

Catania Fontanarossa Airport is located just outside of the city of Catania on the South West coast of Sicily. You will want to fly into Catania if you plan on exploring the southern and eastern areas of Sicily.

Getting around Sicily

It would be impossible to try and fit in all of Sicily’s highlights in one week, but renting a car on arrival will certainly aid your explorations, giving you the freedom to explore more than one place per day. You can make photography stops along the coastline and visit more remote locations and make stops along the way when travelling from point A to B.

You can pick up a car rental directly from Catania airport as there is a range of car rental providers located there. I highly recommend booking your car months in advance if you plan on visiting Sicily between the months of June to September.

Isn’t it dangerous to drive in Sicily?

Most people advise against driving in Sicily. For sure, Sicilian’s are known for their reckless driving but as a whole, it is very safe to rent a car in Sicily and it is the preferred method of exploring the island.

Sicily 7 day itinerary

For the purpose of this 7 day Sicily itinerary which focuses on the Eastern coast, I will presume (and recommend) that you arrive and depart from Catania. You can choose to stay in Catania or you may find cheaper and more quaint accommodation options in one of the many smaller towns situated in the foothills of Mount Etna or along the coastline. Acireale is a popular town to stay in, as is the beachside town of Naxos and Giarre.

Day 1: Arrive in Catania (2 nights)

Today you will arrive in Catania. After you have collected your rental car, you should head straight to your hotel. Depending on what time your flight arrives, you may have an afternoon to explore the centre of Catania or join a guided tour to see the city’s highlights.  Overnight stay in Catania or surrounding area Warning: Do not under any circumstances leave your luggage in your rental car while you go off exploring in Catania. It is better (and safer) to drop off your luggage and car and go exploring on foot if you’re staying in Catania.

Day 2: Mount Etna & Taormina

If you didn’t have time to see Catania, you may want to spend this morning exploring the city centre. After lunch, drive to Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe and the star attraction on the Eastern coast of Sicily. There is multiple options available to explore Mount Etna, with most departing at the Rifugio Sapienza. Be warned that weather conditions dictate when activities operate. For a simple visit, you can enjoy a walk around some of the older craters located close to the car park and enjoy the view over the Bay of Naxos below.

After Etna, you may want to either return to your hotel to freshen up or drive directly to the most famous place in Sicily, the hilltop town of Taormina. This is one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily and the perfect place to enjoy an early evening stroll, an aperitivo in one of the chic bars or dinner in one of the many restaurants.

If you have time, walk to the top of town to visit the Greco-Roman Theatre to capture that famous photo of the theatre with Mount Etna as its backdrop.

Overnight stay in Catania or the surrounding area

Tours we recommend:

It is very easy to visit both Mount Etna and Taormina in one day and there are plenty of tour options available for a fun and adventure filled day.

• Excursion to Volcano Etna and Afternoon Visit to Taormina
• From Catania: Etna & Taormina Day Trip

Day 3: Villa Romana del Casale and Agrigento

It’s time to leave Catania and drive west to Villa Romana del Casale, one of the largest and most elaborate Roman villas in Sicily. Excavated rooms of the villa reveal some of the richest, largest, and varied collections of Roman mosaics in the world, for which the site has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After your visit, head further west to Agrigento (approx 1h30m drive) so you can visit the Valley of the Temples tomorrow. If you’re feeling energetic, you can drop off your luggage at your hotel in Agrigento and drive 20 minutes to the Scala dei Turchi (Stairs of the Turks), a popular tourist spot for sunbathers who come to walk and dive off the white smooth rocks into the crystal clear water below.

Overnight in Agrigento

For those who want to take a guided tour, or perhaps fit both The Valley of the Temples and the Villa Romana del Casale in one day, there are a few tour options you can consider departing from Catania.

• Catania: Valley of the Temples & Piazza Armerina Transfer
• From Catania: Valley of the Temples and Turkish Steps

Day 4: Valley of the Temples and Caltagirone

Today you’ll spend the majority of the day visiting the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top sights in Sicily. The archaeological parks holds a collection of seven preserved temples that date back to the 6th Century Greek colony that once existed here. Admission to the site is 10 EUR per person although there are other ticket combinations available and an option to purchase tickets in advance online .

If you’re visiting on a hot summer day, be sure to take plenty of water and a sun hat as the park offers little shade.

If you feel up to it, you may want to stop at the hilltop town of Caltagirone on your way to Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian). This beautiful Sicilian town is known for its ceramic products and workshops. It is also home to the magnificent Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, a 142 step staircase adorned in vibrantly decorated ceramic tiles.

Overnight in Syracuse

Day 5: Syracuse (Siracusa)

You may want to wake up early today and experience the bustling local market found on the island of Ortigia. This is a wonderful experience to not only catch a glimpse of local life, but foodies will delight at the range of sights and smells. See freshly caught seafood and huge swordfishes, purchase a range of spices and nuts from the market, or simply enjoy the sounds of local vendors “singing” descriptions of their products to passers-by.

You can then visit the Greek Theater,  the  Ear of Dionysius and the  Roman Amphitheater  which are all located together at the Archaeological Park Neapolis. If you have time, the nearby Catacombs of San Giovanni are also well worth a visit.

Freshen up in the evening and then head back over to the island of Ortigia, the historic and cultural centre of Syracuse. This place comes to life in the evening and at its heart, you’ll find the majestic Piazza del Duomo. This is where you’ll find all the action and you’ll find plenty of snazzy bars and local restaurants in the streets that peel off the square.

If you get there early enough, make sure you pop your head inside the Duomo to have a look and see if you can spot the Greek temple that forms part of the cathedral exterior.

There is a lot of ground to cover in Syracuse. For those who are interested in the archaeological ruins or wish to gain more knowledge about Syracuse, I can’t recommend joining a tour or having a private guide enough. Even as “locals” to Sicily, we have joined many private tours to get a better understanding of the sights.

• Syracuse: Greek Theater, Food Market, and Ortigia Island
• Syracuse: Ortigia and Neapolis Guided Walking Tour
• Syracuse: 1.5-Hour Private Walking Tour

Day 6: Noto & Ragusa/Modica/Marzamemi

Today you can visit Noto, a small Sicilian town and another of Sicily’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. This Baroque town was completely destroyed by an earthquake in the late 1600s. When it was rebuilt, many of its buildings took on the Baroque architectural style, including its grand Cathedral. Noto is still relatively unknown to mass tourism so you can enjoy a relaxed morning exploring its Baroque palaces and churches along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

If you feel up to it, you may want to visit another town in the afternoon, with the nearby town of Ragusa or Modica being top choices. For those who want to explore somewhere totally off the beaten path, drive to the coast and make a stop at the small fishing village of Marzamemi. There isn’t much to see or do here except enjoy a peaceful stroll around its small-town square or enjoy a late afternoon aperitivo or early dinner in one of the restaurants. Many serve amazing fresh seafood and fish dishes.

If you want to visit all three cities of Noto, Ragusa and Modica but have decided to base yourself in Catania, there is a great tour that combines all three.

• Noto, Modica and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania

Day 7: Beach

It would be a shame to come to Sicily and not spend a day at the beach. There are many beach options around Syracuse, from sandy beaches to rocky and hidden beaches in the Plemmirio Nature Reserve. If you don’t want to stray too far, Ortigia also has a beach if you walk towards the bottom of the island.

If you’d rather skip the beach and be a little more adventurous, then a visit to Cava Grande close to Avola is a great experience. This hidden natural reserve sits is one of Europe’s biggest canyons and is it home to some beautiful emerald fresh water lakes which makes a great alternative to the beach. The path down is very steep and rocky and it is only advised to go down if you’re fit enough to manage the walk back up. You must take everything you need with you for the day including food and water (trekking shoes are advised to wear down) and you must bring everything including your rubbish back up.

Day 8: Departure

Catania Airport is approximately a 1 hour drive from Syracuse but you should allow at least an extra 1 hour if you are driving in the morning or afternoon rush hours. If you’re dropping off your rental car at the airport as well, you’ll want to aim to be at the airport a minimum of 3 before your flight to allow yourself plenty of time to return the car, check in etc…

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TOP REASONS TO VISIT SICILY THIS SUMMER

There are many reasons to visit Sicily, from delicious seafood, beautiful beaches and more!

5 thoughts on “ 1 Week In Sicily: The Ultimate 7 Day Sicily Itinerary ”

My name is Joseph Spezzano and our family is from the town of Catania Sicily and would love to go back where my grandfathers family came from their rich heritage and the way of living and my dream is to find a

Hi Joseph! I hope you get to return to Sicily and trace your heritage. It’s a beautiful island 🙂

A laid back type of living fresh wine good foods and scenery

Thankyou for this great read! I googled hotels in Sicily and nearly fell off my chair! The prices are crazy expensive. We’ll be travelling from Australia so our dollar really i’snt worth much compared to the Euro. Can you recommend mid range/budget accomodation based on the above itenarary? Regards, Robert

Hi Robert Thanks for leaving me a comment. Yes post-covid hotels in Sicily have risen a great deal. But it is greatly affected by seasonality. I’d be happy to send you a list of some hotels depending on locations you are looking at. Please just send me an email to [email protected] 🙂

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Quick Travel Guide to Sicily

By Helene Sula

Wildflowers, citrus trees, and wisteria perfume the air and engulf you as you drive the winding road, the rolling hills before you and the bright blue sea below. Sicily was such a surprise in the best possible way. I’ve mapped out a quick guide to Sicily, a place I will definitely visit again.

Before visiting Sicily, I pictured a somewhat rough island- strewn with crumbling cities and desolate places. What I found was a sprawling region that reminded me of the rolling hills of Tuscany, the epic landscapes and beaches of the Canary Islands, and delightful ancient stone places full of gorgeous architecture and ancient Greek and Roman ruins. Although some places do need a bit of cleaning up (particularly Palermo and Catania), most of the towns we visited were absolutely remarkable.

Not only is Sicily breathtakingly beautiful, you’ll find it relatively inexpensive. Once you get past driving in the tiny cities, it’s very easy to traverse the landscape and see the entire island’s top sights in about a week.

How to Get to Sicily

Map of sicily, best places to visit in sicily, piazza armerina, modica/noto/scicli, sicily itinerary.

There are multiple airports in Sicily, the largest being in Palermo and Catania. We flew into Catania. There are also a few options to fly into Trapani. Because tourism in Sicily is increasing, there are lots of well-kept roads and maintained airports.

How to Get Around Sicily

If you want to experience all that the island has to offer you must rent a car. Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and it takes approximately four hours to get across and there is a diverse landscape with much to see from coast to coast. In order to get the most out of your trip you need a car. The only time I felt a bit nervous to drive was in the tight alleyways of the bigger towns. Other than that the streets are very well maintained and easy to navigate.

Here's a map that shares all of the places I highlight and recommend you see.

I’ve mapped out an itinerary below, but since so many people fly into Palermo and Catania, I wanted to specify what I think cannot be missed. So, those the places listed below aren’t necessarily in route order, but the ones you must see.

As soon as we arrived in Syracuse I felt like I was on a movie set, ready to record at any moment. The open piazza with the huge Duomo seems like the perfect setting for an action movie or romantic love scene. Not only is it beautiful, and surprisingly pristine, there’s lots of history to boot. Both Greek and Roman ruins dot the small city with easy access to some small hill towns nearby. We walked the tiny, labyrinth-like streets of Ortigia, the island off the coast of the city, saw a puppet show and awed at the ruins.

Interwoven with ancient stone buildings are modern high-end shops and classic Italian restaurants. Duck away in a cute alleyway to discover a dreamy cafe. The tightly packed streets overflow with plants and intricate balconies hang above you. I could have definitely spent more time here.

Top Sights in Syracuse:

• Puppet Theater – The “Opera dei pupi” is on UNESCO's cultural heritage list and a Sicilian tradition. Go to a show, it only lasts about a half hour, and is surprisingly fun. The show does a great job of showcasing Italian drama using puppets. There's also a puppet museum to learn more about the craft.
• Market of Ortigia – Lured by the savvy salesmen, we ended up buying way too much food at the market. Dried fruit, strawberries, oysters (€2.50 each with a free glass of wine), and plenty of seafood and meat. Don’t miss Caseificio Boderi market for sandwiches. Wait in line, you’ll be given many samples like cheese and truffle salami.

At first, I guffawed at spending the night at this port city. We drove here to then head to Favignana, a small island off the coast. But when we decided to spend the night here instead of the island, we discovered a lovely, thriving town with great restaurants and pretty architecture. Staying in the heart of the city, we had an ideal stay at Secret B & B . It’s a bit hard to decipher the hotel ratings online, even if it says it’s 4 or 5-star. But we took a chance on this hotel and loved it. Nice, clean rooms, with a fabulous breakfast inside an coold stone building is the perfect secluded (or secret) oasis in Trapani. It's in the heart of the city center and making it easy to walk around.

Trapani Top Sights:

• Erice – a small village just a few miles away from Trapani that can be accessed via car or funicular. I loved the almost all stone architecture. Make sure to try Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, famous, beautiful and delicious specializing in ‘torrone’ and ‘pasta di mandorla’ as well as marzipan and other treats.

• Calvino Pizzeria – This famous and local pizza place requires a reservation. If you want a break from pizza, try Busiate or 210 Grammi for pasta, Cantina Siciliana for fish, or all of the above at Osteria San Pietro or I Bastioni.

We almost didn’t visit this island after reading it was just a fisherman’s island. Then, we looked at pictures and decided to go. Thank goodness. This island is absolutely stunning. Once a hub for tuna fishing, now it's a laid-back beach lover's paradise. Beautiful, sandy beaches along with a rocky coastline and neon blue water are everywhere you turn. Though there are a few places to stay on the island, I recommend going to Favignana for the day, then spending the night in Trapani. Make sure to check the ferry times leaving out of Trapani and head there at least 15 minutes before departure. The ferry takes roughly 30 minutes.

Favignana top sights:

• Cala Rotonda – A natural harbor with a unique rock formation – Ulysses's Arch.
• Bue Marino – The rugged rock formations are not just natural, they were quarried here. Favignana used to be a place to extract tufa, a porous limestone rock where great chunks have been bitten out of the hillside, right by the sea cliffs.
• Cala Azzura – Beautiful turquoise water with a large beach.
• Cala Rossa – This beach is very close to the port so it's easy to head here. There are sandy and rocky cliffs here which make for picturesque view.

Taormina is a resort town with one of the best preserved Greek theaters and the second largest classical theater in Sicily. Built in the 3rd century B.C. it was enlarged and then rebuilt by the Romans in the second century A.D. As it’s called, “ Teatro Greco ” offers ancient history along with stunning views. Make sure to look for the “boot” of Italy peeking out on a clear day! If you want to experience “La Dolce Vita” simply walk the Curse Umberto that runs through the heart of Taormina. The main street is lined with gelato, pizza, and pasta restarts. Don’t forget to try Cannolli here, they are known to have some of the best! I loved the pizza (and prices) at Da Cristina.

The drive to Agrigento alone is worth the trip. Wildflowers of every possible color flank the sides of the highway and show off the fertile soil of Sicily. Here, you’ll find a massive area full of Greek temples called Temple of The Valley . The best preserved is Concordia which is ringed with columns and might even surpass the Parthenon in its beauty.

The highlight in Pizza Armerina is Villa Romana del Casale , a former Rokan mansion covered in well-preserved mosaics.  The mosaics show the Roman obsession with the exotic animal trade, their love of sports via the “bikini girls” who are shown throwing javelins, and their appreciation to the gods. I suggest staying the night just near the villa, for scenic views and a quiet respite from the city. We stayed at La Quercia e l'Asino . I picked it simply because of the donkeys on the property and I wasn’t disappointed. The man who owns the property actually uses the donkeys (and horses) to help disabled children.

Ragusa is an ancient stone town that takes your breath away as you drive up the hill. It was two separate towns until quite recently: the old original site of the town before the earthquake that destroyed a lot of nearby towns in the 1600s, the top of the hill was the area where the wealthier citizens re-established themselves rather than deal with the rubble. I suggest parking near the cathedral and grabbing a sandwich and dessert at Salumeria Barocco . With sandwiches and local cheeses made fresh you’ll also find an array of products like pistachio sauce or squid ink pasta. Try the dessert: ricotta topped with chocolate, pistachios, and honey. Different but divine. Here you can also check out Ragusa’s Duomo (just make sure to check the hours) and walk the piazza.

I am putting these three towns together because they are very similar. Pretty stone, hill-top towns that are great to peruse on foot. If you can only choose one, go to Modica for chocolate. Their ancient chocolate recipe comes from the Aztecs since the Spanish conquistadors in South America conquered the island and ruled for centuries. Today, the chocolate is still processed in the same way making it rich and crumbly. You’ll find chocolate shops everywhere, but Antica Dolceria Bonajuto is the most authentic. The shop offers dozens of flavors and freshly made cannolis. I opted for a bar with ginger and Michael devoured a freshly made cannoli for just $1.80.

This active volcano is the tallest in Europe! You can go here for views as this the highest point on the island. You can take a gondola ride or hike up. It’s renown for its fertile soil so there are wineries everywhere and lovely citrus trees. You might just see steam bellowing from the top of the mountain. You can easily take a half-day tour here from Catania or, make a day of it and also enjoy the wine and sunset excursion .

Some of the best beaches you can find in Sicily are in Cefalu. With 930 miles (1500 kilometers) of coastline around the island, you’re sure to find some pristine spots for your Sicily holiday. Of course, your options are endless with beaches if you don’t make it to Cefalu. The Aeolian islands boast scenic views and fun hangouts. The Egadi islands, including Favignana, are easy to get to and absolutely stunning. Not only are there great beaches for basking in the sun, there's also a historic city center.

Thought highly touristic, Palermo was one of my least favorite places in Sicily. I found it to be pretty rough, lots of trash (almost unbearably so), and the architecture wasn’t quite as pretty as Syracuse or Trapani. There are a few top touristic attractions that I recommend you see. But I would make a day trip to Palermo, see those, then head on your way.

Top Sights in Palermo:

• Market – Mayhem ensues at this boisterous market filled with sellers who yell at the top of their lungs to describe the products of the day. It’s hilarious to try and squeeze through the mass of people, scooters, and carts of food. Try the Sicilian pizza. You can ONLY find this in Palermo.

• Palermo Cathedral – Because Sicily was ruled and conquered by many empires the cathedral reflects its many styles of it's various conquerors. It's one of the most beautiful buildings on the island and is well worth a peek inside.
• Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs – If you want to be a bit creeped out, head underground to the catacombs. Some of the best preserved bodies – some still with a full set of teeth, hair, and even skin can be found here. Bizarre but worth the tour.
• Teatro Massimo -Like its name suggest the Opera house is huge and is reminiscent more of a palace than a music hall. You can do a guided tour here as well.
• Cattedrale di Monreale – Just six miles away from Palermo is this massive church that is richly ornamented, built to show off Norman King William II in all his glory. There are intricate mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible on the walls. If you are really short on time in Palermo check out this one day Catacombs and Monreale tour .

The central feature of Catania is the large Piazza where you’ll find the marble Duomo- Cathedral of Sant’Agata and Fontana dell’Elefante , the symbol of the city. The main street looked very different from other parts of Sicily and reminded me of central Europe’s architecture. We also headed to the Monastery of San Nicolò l’Arena , a UNESCO heritage site and one of the largest monasteries in Europe. Other highlights are Castello Ursino and Teatro Massimo Bellini . I wouldn’t recommend too much time in Catania, outside the piazza it’s a fairly gritty city. We flew in and out of here which is why we toured Catania. This is also a good base for touring Mount Etna .

We flew into Catania and made our way directly to Ragusa. After briefing exploring the hilltop towns of Modica and Noto, we ventured over to Syracuse. We walked the town and saw a puppet show and ducked into the Duomo and Greek ruins. Crossing the island takes only a few hours and we stayed a night in Palermo to discover the cathedral and market. Here, you can also head to Cefalu and Monreale. We dipped back down to Trapani and also cruised the beaches of Favignana. Before leaving Trapani, we drove up to Erice then went on Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples. This is the main site of the town so after a few hours here we moved on to Villa Romana del Casale and stayed in Piazza Armerina. From here, it was a two-hour drive to Taormina for the Teatro Greco and then a short time in Catania and Mount Etna before flying home.

Where to stay in Sicily

We booked our hotels extremely last minute, most often booking them the day of by looking at reviews. Some were total hits, some not so much. I suggest making sure it's a reputable place and is highly rated on Google. Any hotel I've listed in this post I fully endorse and would stay at again, I left out any place I wouldn't recommend. Almost every place in Sicily offers an included, homemade breakfast, so don't miss out!

Secrets B & B  in Trapani.

La Quercia e l'Asino in Piazza Armerina.

Liberty Hotel in Catania. I didn't personally stay here but friends did and loved it.

Hotel Garibaldi in Palermo. I didn't stay here, as I stayed somewhere I wouldn't recommend, but a friend stays here regularly. A bit pricey but this is Sicily's capital.

Mandranova outside of Agrigento. If you want to experience “agriturismo” check out this working farm that produces olive oil and almonds.

Sicily is best understood as a place with many contrasts: dingy streets lined with litter and graffiti, but mostly epic scenes of beauty and ancient ruins. Trapani and Syracuse in particular are hidden gems that you should visit at least once. If you can embrace both the grittiness and the beauty I think you’ll truly have a fabulous time. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to the island or encourages you to go. I found the beauty lies in the smaller coastal villages, beautiful Greek and Roman ruins, and the lovely stone hill-top towns.

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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The Perfect Sicily Itinerary – Where to Stay, What to Eat, and the Top Things to do in Sicily, Italy

Written by Mariana Barbuceanu for MonaCorona.com .

Bongiorno, fellow travelers! If you’re looking for the perfect Sicily itinerary, you’re in for both a treat and an adventure. This charming island is all about taking it easy, spending time on cute little beaches, sampling the authentic Sicilian foods, indulging in granita (I’ll explain later), and learning about a very long & diverse culture.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission on bookings or purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, please see my  Disclosures  page.

Having spent about a month on the island last summer, I’ll focus on sharing things you’ll want to keep in mind when planning your itinerary for Sicily and visiting Sicily for the first time. In a nutshell:

• Sicily is a large island, so you’ll need to decide which areas you want to focus on. I have a 7-day road trip itinerary outlined for you, with a few suggestions on how to get around ( definitely recommend a car! ) and what to do!
• When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options available, from luxury hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts. I’ll suggest a few, but make sure to book ahead, especially in the summer months. Planning really comes in handy here!
• You have to try all (or most) of the local cuisines. I’ll suggest a few of my favorite restaurants, but get ready for fresh seafood, eggplant in everything, cannolis of every flavor and size, gelato, granita, and pasta prepared like you won’t see on mainland Italy!

Alora ! Let’s dive into your itinerary of Sicily details and tips so you can get going!

The Perfect Sicily Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1: fly into palermo & explore.

The capital city of Palermo, the New York City of Sicily, is a great starting point with its beautiful cathedral and lively markets. Since its your first time in Sicily, make sure to visit the Cattedrale di Palermo, the big beautiful cathedral in the heart of the city ( which is especially gorgeous lit up at night! ).

HISTORY CONTEXT: It’s good to know that Sicily has a long and complex history, dating back to the days of Ancient Greece. The island has been ruled by a succession of different civilizations, including the Romans, Arabs, and Normans. As a result, Sicilian culture is a unique blend of influences from all over the Mediterranean.

For a taste of that Sicilian history, head to the Palazzo dei Normanni, a Norman Palace that now houses the Sicilian Regional Assembly. Or explore the markets of Ballarò and Vucciria in the mornings, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs.

What & Where to Eat in Palermo : Choose your own adventure between Osteria Nonna Dora (local Sicilian) or Buatta Cucina Popolana (Michelin Guide Sicilian).

Make sure to try any and all the pasta including eggplant and fish, and don’t shy away from the street food vendors selling arancini (fried rice balls) and granitas for breakfast in Sicily ( a delicious sorbet made from fresh orange or fresh fruit juice )!

Where to stay : Palermo (3 nights)

Luxury: Grand Hotel Wagner

Day 2: Day trip to Scopello

A day trip to Scopello is a must, especially as it’s just a 1.5-hour drive from Palermo. Located on the northwest coast of the island, Scopello is known for its cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and centuries-old tuna fishery.

My favorite spot to sunbathe and swim was Cala Mazzo di Sciacca . Honestly, the beaches in Sicily, Italy and waters are exactly what is needed to get into the Sicilian vibe, and Scopello is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun at the beginning of your trip!

What & Where to Eat : La Cialoma (for the fish!)

Day 3: Day Trip to Erice & Isola Favignana

Today is a big day on the west coast of the island, so start early! I spent the first half of the day exploring the tiny Isola Favignana, and the late afternoon sipping on Aperol on top of a mountain in Erice – and it was everything! Here’s what you need to do…

In the morning, pack a little day pack with a towel & swimsuit and drive 2 hours to Trapani’s port , where you can buy a ferry ticket to Isola Favignana. Tickets are about $10 and ferries run hourly. Once on the island, rent an e-bike from the vendors right out front of the dock and explore the island at your leisure – beach to beach! 

After a fish lunch and beers on Favignana, grab the ferry back and head towards Palermo, stopping to spend the afternoon in the small gem of a town, Erice.

Pro Tip: It honestly doesn’t matter where you get food in Favignana because all of the little beach bars are super cute and delicious.

Ok, back to the main island for the afternoon! Erice sits on top of a mountain, and is known for its medieval architecture, beautiful views, and tasty food. One of the best ways to experience Erice is to wander through its narrow streets and alleyways. You’ll find yourself surrounded by centuries-old buildings, many of which have been converted into quaint little shops and restaurants. This makes it the best place to catch the sunset and have dinner like the locals do in those narrow streets before going home to Palermo!

What & Where to Eat: Gli Archi di San Carlo (remember that Sicilians eat late, so make sure to have an Aperol before dinner at one of the cute little side streets where the lights twinkle and there’s only room for 1 person – yet somehow you can squeeze 2! )

Day 4: Cefalu for a Day

Today, we head east for 1 hour to Cefalu, where we’re spending the night in a small, traditional Sicilian town. Cefalu is one of those quintessential undiscovered gems, a small village with cute little streets and cute little restaurants, a couple of little beaches, and a couple of little boats bobbing about in the cute little harbor.

Pro Tip: The Cefalu Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage spot and boasts a unique combination of Byzantine and Norman architecture, so definitely take some time to stop in!

In a nutshell, Cefalu is adorable, and a spot where a lot of Sicilians go on vacation from the island. Spend a lazy day on the beach or wander the streets of Cefalu, this is a day of leisure and postcard writing!

Where to stay: Cefalu (1 night)

Luxury: Bohémien Boutique Guesthouse

Day 5: Explore Taormina

After lunch in Cefalu, take the scenic coastal road 2.5 hours to Taormina, the “Pearl of Sicily”. I cannot stress enough how absolutely stunning this town is, so much so that I built this entire itinerary around “saving the best for last”! 5 days in Sicily and you’ve already seen so much, but now you are in for a treat.

The town itself is relatively small, but it is home to a number of interesting historical and cultural sites. Here are a few of my favorite spots to wander:

• The Greek Theater – One of the most popular attractions in Taormina, it offers breathtaking views of both Mt. Etna and the sea (best to catch a sunset here before it closes!)
• Villa Comunale di Taormina – Loveliest gardens and park to stroll through in the mornings with your coffee (or if you’re like me, nap on one of the benches under the trees in the afternoon.)
• Isola Bella – That cute little island in the sea with a small castle perched on top!

Where and What to Eat: Gambero Rosso Taormina (for local Sicilian seafood, they will tell you what is on the menu each night!). That said, all of the little restaurants down the steps of Via di Giovanni offer excellent food and vibe. 

Where to stay – 5 Star Hotels in Sicily, Taormina (2 nights)

Luxury: UNAHOTELS Capotaormina 

Resort option: San Domenico Palace (Four Seasons)

Day 6: Isola Bella & Taormina

Another day, another beach! There is a little path and stairs that take you from the town center down to Isola Bella, passing by this little scenic viewpoint . When you find the stairs, walk all the way down for about 30 minutes to the sea and post up as close to Isola Bella as you can.

Spend the day reflecting on the Sicily trip you just took, write postcards to your friends and family, and make a promise to come back to visit the southern part of this amazing island!

Day 7: Back to Palermo & Fly Home

The drive back from Taormina to Palermo takes about 3.5 hours. Give yourself enough time to return the rental car, deal with Sicilian drivers, and catch your flight! Arrivederci !

Visiting Italy for the First Time: Map

Visiting Sicily for the First Time: FAQ & Travel Tips

Is sicily worth visiting.

Yes! And be prepared for a whole different type of Italian experience.

Sicilians will always introduce themselves as Sicilian, not Italian. And being on the island feels like you’re in a whole new country. Not only is the Sicilian dialect and language different from mainland Italian, but the spirit of laid-back everything is ingrained in the day-to-day culture of the island.

Fun Fact: Most stores close from 12 noon to 4 pm to take a little siesta and rest, busses and trains are never on time, and schedules are mere suggestions to a Sicilian. Oh, and don’t expect anything to be open on Sunday. I’ve learned that both nap time and Sunday Fundays are very sacred in Sicily! 🙂 

What is the best month to visit Sicily?

If you can avoid the summer months of June to August, that would be best. It’s super hot and super busy with Italian (and other) tourists, the prices are hiked up, and there’s never enough room on the beach in the spot where you want!

PRO TIP: If you’re keen on visiting Italy during the summer, head north to the Italian Dolomites for some hiking. Here’s a badass 14 Day Hiking Trip from Italy to Switzerland that I still can’t believe we were able to do for under $4K total!

Anyway, to answer the question, my favorite months to visit Sicily are May (Spring) and September (Fall). The tourists have gone back from vacationing, school is back in session so less kids around, and prices have dropped down to normal. There is more space in some of the cutest hotels, restaurants are still open (some close for the winter months), and the beaches are warm without scorching your skin off.

Where should I stay in Sicily for the first time?

My top places to stay would be the capital city of Palermo and the “Pearl of Sicily” town of Taormina. Both offer a different style of the areas of Sicily if you’re visiting for the first time, and are situated in opposite sides of the northern part of the Island, making both easy home bases to do day trips to some of the hidden gems on my itinerary.

PRO TIP: There are a few more Cute Coastal Towns in the south of Sicily I would recommend, but you can save that for the next visit!

Do you need a car in Sicily?

Yes, this is my biggest recommendation. Sicily is large and the public transportation is not that great. Trains are good for getting to major cities, and busses for the small towns, but nothing is on time ( and I don’t mean by minutes, but rather by hours ). Plus, the local spots, beaches, and underrated gems you’ll want to go to are not always on the bus routes.

How many days in Sicily is enough?

As I mentioned, Sicily is a pretty large island, and it’s not as connected as most of the mainland is. I definitely recommend a car to get around, and in the spirit of not being on the road the entire trip, I recommend at least one week in Sicily to see a region at a fast, yet relaxed pace.

That said, I recommend a week to visit the north and a week to visit the south. My 7 day Sicily itinerary is for the northern region, which includes Palermo, Trapani, Cefalu, and Taormina is above, but if you were keen on the south, you’ll need another week to add Siracusa, Ortigia, Noto, Ragusa, and Agrigento in the south. A Sicily itinerary 10 days may be enough to cover it, but it will feel very rushed!

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME : Check out my 2 Weeks in Italy: A Road Trip from Napoli to Sicily , adding a week of mainland South Italy and Neapolitan pizza to the mix!

Is Sicily better than the Amalfi Coast?

Both offer a different version of Itlay. Sicily is authentically itself, unapologetically south Italian, loud for no reason, a little hectic, yet so incredibly easygoing, colorful in everything from dress style, pasta dishes, and granita flavors. 

The Amalfi Coast is feels more curated, luxury-forward, and stunning in its own right. If you’re looking for Instagram pictures of Positano, fantastic couture dresses, and high-end restaurants, this is the scene you want. Though, you can find most of that too, in Sicily!

To be fair, it’s a stellar goal to visit both once in your life but choose wisely for the vibe you want and the budget you have.

How safe is it to travel to Sicily?

Very Safe! Despite its sometimes turbulent past with organized crime, Sicily is now a peaceful and welcoming place, full of kind and laid-back people! 

And while the Mafia is still very alive and well in Sicily, collecting “protection taxes” from local restaurants and stores ( not even joking! ), it’s not as prevalent as it has been in the past, so don’t start thinking Godfather straight away! 

Pro Tip: Since we’re talking about the economics of Sicily, Cash is King on the island. From parking to espressos, local restaurants, and granita shops, you better have some Euros on you. The good thing is, there are ATM machines everywhere! Sicilians think of everything! 🙂 

Arrivederci!

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Destination: Sicily

Daily dose of europe: a little bone envy.

I was just 19, visiting Romania for the first time. A new friend took me inside his home, to the hearth, and introduced me to what was left of his great-grandfather. It was a skull… dry, hollow, and easy to hold in one hand. He told me it was a tradition in the mountains of Transylvania for families to remember long-dead loved ones with this honored spot above the fireplace. I remember feeling a little bone envy.

Even though we’re not visiting Europe right now, I believe that travel dreaming can be good medicine. Last year, I published “For the Love of Europe” — a collection of my favorite stories from a lifetime of European travels — and this is just one of its 100 travel tales.

If you know where to look, you can find human bones on display in many corners of Europe. Later, on that same trip, I was in the Paris Catacombs. Deep under the city streets, I was all alone…surrounded by literally millions of bones — tibiae, fibulae, pelvises, and skulls, all stacked along miles of tunnels. I jumped at the opportunity to pick up what, once upon a time, was a human head. As what seemed like two centuries of dust tumbled off the skull, I looked at it…Hamlet-style. Just holding it was a thrill. I tried to get comfortable with it… to get to know it, in a way. I struggled with the temptation to stick it into my day bag. Imagine taking home a head dating back to Napoleonic times. What an incredible souvenir. But I just couldn’t do it. The next year, I returned to those same catacombs, pumped up and determined this time to steal me a skull. It was a different scene. Skulls within easy reach of visitors were now wired together, and signs warned that bags would be checked at the exit.

The Paris Catacombs show off the anonymous bones of six million permanent residents. In 1786, the French government decided to relieve congestion and improve sanitary conditions by emptying the city cemeteries, which had traditionally surrounded churches. They established an official ossuary in an abandoned limestone quarry. With miles of underground tunnels, it was the perfect location. For decades, the priests of Paris led ceremonial processions of black-veiled, bone-laden carts into the quarries, where the bones were stacked into piles five feet high and up to 80 feet deep, behind neat walls of skull-studded tibiae. Each transfer was completed with the placement of a plaque indicating the church and district from which that stack of bones came and the date they arrived.

Today, you can descend a long spiral staircase into this bony underworld (ignoring the sign that announces: “Halt, this is the empire of the dead”) and follow a one-mile subterranean public walk. Along the way, plaques encourage you to reflect upon your destiny: “Happy is he who is forever faced with the hour of his death and prepares himself for the end every day.” Emerging far from where you entered with white limestone-covered toes is a dead giveaway you’ve been underground, gawking at bones.

While I eventually outgrew my desire to steal a skull, in later years, as a tour guide, I’ve discovered I’m not the only one intrigued by human bones. If bones are on your bucket list, you’ve got plenty of options. Throughout Europe, Capuchin monks offer a different bone-venture. The Capuchins made a habit of hanging their dead brothers up to dry and then opening their skeleton-filled crypts to the public. Their mission: to remind us that in a relatively short period of time, we’ll be dead, too — so give some thought to mortality and how we might be spending eternity.

In the Capuchin Crypt in Rome, the bones of 4,000 monks who died between 1528 and 1870 are lined up for the delight — or disgust — of always wide-eyed visitors. A plaque shares their monastic message: “We were what you are…you will become what we are now.”

The Capuchins of Palermo, Sicily, offer an experience skull and shoulders above the rest. Their crypt is a subterranean gallery filled with 8,000 “bodies without souls,” howling silently at their mortality. For centuries, people would thoughtfully choose their niche before they died, and even linger there, getting to know their macabre neighborhood. After death, dressed in their Sunday best, their body (sans soul) would be hung up to dry.

In Kutná Hora, in the Czech Republic, monks take bone decor to an unrivaled extreme. Their ossuary is decorated with the bones of 40,000 people, many of them plague victims. The monks who stacked these bones 400 years ago wanted viewers to remember that the earthly church is a community of both the living and the dead. Later bone-stackers were more into design than theology — creating, for instance, a chandelier made with every bone in the human body.

In Europe, seekers of the macabre can get their fill of human skeletons. And in doing so, they learn that many of these bones — even long after death — still have something to say.

This story appears in my newest book, “For the Love of Europe” — a collection of 100 of my favorite memories from a lifetime of European travel. Please support local businesses in your community by picking up a copy from your favorite bookstore, or you can find it at my online Travel Store .

Stay tuned, travel buddies. Upcoming posts will be sure to carbonate your daily routine — such as a European-festivals bonanza — with running bulls, Euro-Mardi Gras, a crazy horse race, and huge tents filled with dirndls, lederhosen, and giant beers — at our next Monday Night Travel event. So, be sure to stick around, and invite your friends to join us here as well!

Highs and Lows: Our TV Shoot in Sicily Wraps Up

After two intense weeks of filming in Sicily, my wonderful TV crew is home now with lots of great footage for two new episodes of Rick Steves’ Europe .

We generally had great weather and lots of local smiles in Sicily, but every shoot has its disappointments. For example, the most beautiful mosaic scene at an ancient Roman villa — the sexy couple decorating the bedroom — was covered for restoration (this photo is from a postcard).

Often, we filmed straight through the day. (Below, you’ll see my treasured “stolen sandwich” — the last course of my hotel breakfast, squirreled away so I can concentrate on my work instead of stopping for lunch). And on our last day, we got to Taormina’s beautifully situated Greek theater with just half an hour of sunlight left for me to film the “open” of our show. I love the low light — but leaving the show’s open to the last evening is always a bit nerve-racking, as we never know what might befuddle our plans, and when the sun’s down…the sun’s down.

After saying goodbye to my crew, it was time for me to change gears. As I flew from Catania to Paris, I was pleasantly surprised to be served dinner on the flight.

We were 30,000 feet above my favorite bit of the Mediterranean coastline, and it was fun to pick out my beloved five villages of the Cinque Terre.

Today is just Day 16 of my 100-day trip to Europe and I still have lots of travels ahead. Next up: France guidebook research with my co-author Steve Smith . I’ll tell you all about it tomorrow.

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Bodies Without Souls: Filming Palermo’s Capuchin Crypt

I have to admit, I was really excited to take our TV crew into Palermo’s Capuchin Crypt .

I made sure to add the crypt to our script after I visited it last year on a Rick Steves Best of Sicily tour . I could hardly wait to get back with the camera rolling, and when we arrived, it turned out to be even better than I hoped — thanks to a friendly monk who was happy to walk with me and share his thoughts.

You’ll be able to watch the whole thing this fall on Rick Steves’ Europe . In the meantime, here’s a sneak peek at our script for this scene:

[52] One of Sicily’s quirkiest charms — nearby in the city of Palermo — is in a crypt below its Capuchin monastery. The Capuchins, a branch of the Franciscan order, have a passion for reminding people of their mortality. Historically, when their brothers died, their bones were saved and put on display. The Capuchins of Palermo took this tradition a step further, rather than just saving bones, they preserved the bodies in their entirety.   [53] Back in the 16th century, they found that this particular crypt preserved bodies almost miraculously. They later realized they could actually charge wealthy parishioners for the privilege of being mummified here with the monks. And this helped raise money to support their monastery.   [54] This maze of corridors contains thousands of skeletons and mummies, dressed in the clothing of their choice. Each area features a different group: monks in their brown robes, women with their favorite dresses, priests with their vestments, soldiers still in uniform, and children looking almost as if they are taking a long nap. The oldest body — Brother Silvestro — has been hanging here since 1599.   [55] One of the brothers gave me a lovely little sermon. He explained that our time on earth is short and what really matters is what comes next. These “bodies without souls,” as they call them, are a reminder that we’re all mortal. For this monk, being with all these bodies brought him great joy and peace, as it caused him to prioritize not on our earthly existence…but on eternity.   [56] Today, the public’s welcome to wander thoughtfully through these halls of haunting faces that seem determined to tell us a truth that perhaps we’ve yet to learn…   [57] I’m not quite ready for a Capuchin crypt, but I could go for a cappuccino. And I’m joined by my Capuchin friend — who, in good Franciscan style, enjoys embracing the moment as well. [soundup: Scusi — un cappuccino, per favore. That means “the little Capuchin monk.” It’s what it looks like: with a light top…and a brown robe. Cappuccino.]

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Sicily’s Cleaning Up, But Still Keeps Its Edge

I just spent two exciting and intense weeks in Sicily, filled with lots of great work and lots of great travel . Over the next few days, I’ll be sharing some final thoughts and pictures from the trip — and then we’ll dive right into our next stop: France.

Sicily surprised me. It’s less chaotic and dirty and more clean and efficient than it was in years past. But it still retains its colorful edge (and that’s why I love it). You never know what kind of welcome you’ll receive on the streets — like the in-your-face rude gesture a happy bum gave me — but it just feels friendly and fun rather than dark and foreboding.

In Palermo, we visited a giant mural that memorializes two judges who were assassinated by the Mafia in 1992. Their murders were a big turning point for the people of Sicily and today, the Mafia has nowhere near the influence it once held over Sicilian society.

Coming Soon: Two New Sicily Episodes — and a Sicily Guidebook

We just wrapped up a wonderful shoot in Sicily, filming two new episodes of Rick Steves’ Europe — and I couldn’t feel better.

Last year, I signed up (incognito) for a Rick Steves Best of Sicily tour . And almost one year ago today, I was right here on the slopes of Mount Etna, enjoying lunch and a wine tasting at the Benanti Viticoltori family estate with my fellow tour members. Our guide was Alfio Di Mauro, and we had so much fun, I knew I’d be back this year with my TV crew. I booked Alfio to be our crew’s guide and fixer and, together, we’ve made some amazing TV.

This island is hot in so many ways. At Rick Steves’ Europe Tours, where we offer 44 different tour itineraries covering all corners of Europe, Sicily is one of our most popular destinations — with over 50 departures a year. And in our spare time during this shoot, Alfio and I have been working on a brand-new Rick Steves Sicily guidebook, co-authored by Sarah Murdoch.

It’s gratifying to think that, a year from now, our new guidebook and two new Sicily episodes will be inspiring and equipping travelers to enjoy this challenging (but endlessly rewarding) southernmost part of Italy.

The Joys and Challenges of Traveling in Sicily

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Sicily travel kicked my ass and nearly destroyed me.

I did not expect that. Italy is my zone. I go to Italy once or twice a year. I’ve visited 17 of Italy’s 20 regions. I lived in Florence for four months. I speak Italian (not as well as I used to, yet more than enough to get by).

As a result, Italy is one of the countries where I’m most comfortable. I understand how things work. I know what to eat, what to wear, what to do at different times of day. I’m well versed in the passeggiatta  and penalties of not validating your train ticket.

I thought I knew Italy — and then I got to Sicily.

This post was last updated in February 2020.

Table of Contents

Sicily Travel

Sicily was the tenth region I visited in Italy (after Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio, Campania, Liguria, Lombardia, Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, and Puglia). Since then I’ve visited seven more regions (Trentino-Alto Adige, Piemonte, Basilicata, Molise, Abruzzo, Le Marche, Friuli Venezia-Giulia) and traveled extensively throughout the country.

To this day, I think Sicily is the Italian region that has the least in common with Italy’s other regions. Yes, even more so than Austrian-looking Alto Adige.

Sicily had a wildness in the way the overgrown plants spill onto the highway, in the way gargoyle-like rocks rise out of the sea, in the way children ride their bikes around piazzas at 1:00 AM.

But most significantly, I had a lot of communication issues. English was only spoken in the most touristy areas, and in the more rural areas, the locals spoke Sicilian dialect, which is very different from mainstream Italian.

As a result, even when I spoke Italian, we could barely understand each other. I would understand maybe one word, tops, out of the whole sentence.

I’ll admit that this was overwhelming and embarrassing for me on many occasions.  Traveling seamlessly in Italy is a mark of pride for me, and I hated feeling so helpless during my Sicily travel.

I’m not the only one who felt this way. Amanda of Farsickness wrote in a comment on one of my earlier posts:

In a weird way I am so glad you felt that way about Sicily. I spent 2 weeks there in May and found it to be way more difficult than I imagined. I speak Italian and have lived in Italy and I felt lost and confused so, so, so many times. I kept thinking about how I wouldn’t recommend it as a destination to newbie independent travelers or anyone who doesn’t know at least some basic Italian. A beautiful island with killer food and wine, but easy and often, not relaxing.

I am so glad that Amanda said that. It made me feel like I wasn’t crazy after all.

That said, in spite of the difficulties, Sicily is an incredibly rewarding destination. It’s filled with so much natural beauty and so many cultural destinations. The people are warm and friendly. The food is delicious. Everything looks and tastes like sunshine.

Is Sicily worth visiting? Absolutely. Let me show you what it’s like.

Tips for Traveling in Sicily

If you’re planning to visit Sicily, get ready to plan more than you would for a trip elsewhere in Italy.

Here are my top recommendations for Sicily:

Stick to the Beaten Path Unless You’re an Experienced Traveler

If you stay on the beaten path, visiting Sicily’s most popular destinations for foreign travelers, you won’t have most of the challenges that I had.

In Eastern Sicily, that means sticking to the Aeolian Islands, Taormina, Mount Etna, Siracusa, and the Baroque cities (Ragusa, Modica, Noto).

In Western Sicily, that means sticking to Trapani, Cefalù, Erice, Agrigento, and the western islands like Pantelleria.

In popular tourist destinations, Italian is spoken (not the Sicilian dialect that I found in other places) and English is often spoken as well. These destinations also have a more developed infrastructure for travelers and have a less harried, more relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re a less-experienced traveler, you’ll have a much easier time visiting Sicily on the beaten path.

• Where to Go in Eastern Sicily

Off the Beaten Path Has Its Own Challenges and Rewards

You absolutely can get off the beaten path in Sicily if you’d like to. Just know that it will be tougher in lots of ways. You’ll be dealing with things including but not limited to:

People speaking only the local Sicilian dialect, not Italian, and definitely not English.

Limited tourism infrastructure.

Roads in very poor condition.

Limited opening hours and dining options.

That said, getting off the beaten path can be very rewarding. You can end up getting to know locals who rarely see foreign tourists and are eager to share the best parts of their town (and food!) with you. It gives you a glimpse of what Sicilian life is like today, where Sicilians live their lives without catering to foreign tourists.

Learn As Much Italian As You Can

Even in popular areas in Sicily, it will benefit your trip greatly if you learn as much Italian as you can in advance. Just speaking the local language can put a smile on people’s faces and result in a smoother trip for you.

Before you visit Sicily, at minimum, I recommend learning buongiorno / buonasera / arrivederci / ciao , per favore / grazie, numbers one through 10 , mi scusi and  permesso (“regular excuse me” and “please move out of my way excuse me”),  vorrei (“I would like” — use when ordering in a restaurant), and  parla inglese? (“Do you speak English?”).

It helps to learn food words, too. Delizioso is always appreciated by chefs!

Keep a translation app on your phone so you can double-check translations on the fly.

My favorite way to learn a language? The DuoLingo app. It makes language learning a fun game!

Understand “Sicilian Time”

Like in Spain, you’ll find that most businesses in Sicily take a siesta in the afternoon, often from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM or a bit later.  Oh, and they might not be open when they say they’ll be open. Opening hours are often more like suggestions. Just know that if you have something important to buy at a shop, do it in the morning!

Dinner is eaten at a late hour — you’re best off waiting until 9:00 PM, and even then you’ll be among the earlier ones getting their  aperitivo . People will be out having dinner well past midnight, even families with young children.

Also, make like a Sicilian and avoid being outside during the hottest part of the afternoon, unless you’re at the beach. Everyone stays inside and smaller towns start to feel creepy when you’re the only one out.

Sicily is very laid back. If you’re meeting up with a Sicilian, plan on a 15-minute grace period; if you need something repaired, it might take days. Know this going in and you won’t be disappointed.

Get a SIM Card for Sicily

What’s a good SIM card for Sicily? I recommend Vodafone. I picked up my Vodafone SIM Card at a shop in the Rome airport en route to Catania, but there are Vodafone shops in cities and towns throughout Sicily.

Getting a SIM card makes Sicily travel so much easier. I was beyond glad that I did. It gave us so much help when it came to navigation and translation, and wifi isn’t as common as it is in other parts of Italy.

I paid 40 EUR ($45) for 5 GB of data with calls and texting. I later ordered another gig of data online for 5 EUR ($6).

I was happy with the Vodafone coverage. It didn’t work on most of the land at our  agriturismo (which wasn’t an issue, as they had good wifi), and we didn’t get coverage on some of the tiny roa ds from Avola to Ragusa, but other than that, it worked great.

One last thing — you need your passport in order to get a SIM card in Italy. Don’t forget to bring it with you.

Rent a Car in Sicily

It is possible to travel around Sicily using only public transportation, but the quality, frequency, and connections aren’t as good as in the north. If you only have public transportation, you’re not going to see nearly as much of Sicily as you could with a car.

Renting a car in Sicily was a very smart decision — one of the best of our trip. It gave us so much freedom to do day trips as we pleased without relying on public transit. Plus, when we stayed at our  agriturismo , it was the only way we could leave the area.

Getting a tiny car should be a priority. Streets are narrow in many Sicilian towns and driving our regular-sized sedan felt like like driving a tank. (We survived, but we wish we had rented a smaller vehicle!)

I would only recommend renting a manual car if you’re very experienced with driving a manual. My mom drove a manual for most of her life, but she hadn’t driven one in over a decade, and she was relieved that we had an automatic.

The reason? Sicily is very hilly. If you end up taking small streets, you’ll have tough driving ahead of you. This isn’t the kind of place to drive a manual if you’re iffy about it.

Also, book your car way in advance. Cars often sell out, especially automatics, and even after booking, we were told the night before our arrival (!) that our rental car provider didn’t have any more cars. We freaked out and booked last-minute with a more expensive provider.

If you’re looking to save money on your Sicily car rental, I recommend using RentalCars.com . They comb the rental sites to find you the best rates overall.

Sicily has some train lines and the rest of the country is accessible by bus. I recommend using Omio to plan out your Sicily travel by public transportation.

Watch Out for Crazy Drivers

The driving in Italy gets crazier the further south you go. The driving in Sicily is wild, fast, and often reckless. (And it doesn’t even stop once you leave Sicily — Malta is home to the most reckless driving I have seen, and I’ve been to more than 80 countries.)

Sicily is a place where you should drive more conservatively. Stay out of the fast lane. Look in every direction a few times before driving through an intersection. Remember that many people ignore red lights and stop signs.

Driver super-defensively to maximize your safety.

Stay in an Agriturismo in Sicily

An agriturismo is a farm that doubles as a guesthouse. It’s a very popular way to travel in Italy, both for locals and foreigners. You get to relax in the outdoors, eat local food, and sometimes you can even help out in the garden if you want to!

Agriturismi (plural form) can vary enormously. They are available at all price ranges, from budget to luxury; some serve breakfast only, some serve basic local food, and some serve sumptuous feasts; some are designed for long, relaxed stays and others are simply local stopovers. It’s important to do your research when choosing your Sicily agriturismo.

If you’re looking for an agriturismo on Sicily, I recommend looking at farm stay listings in Sicily on Airbnb . (You can select “farm stay” as an option on the “unique stays” menu, and in Italy, a farm stay is an agriturismo.)

We stayed at Agriturismo la Rocca della Rosa in Zafferana Etnea, the base for journeys to Mount Etna. This was a lovely place to stay and I highly recommend it for your time in Sicily.

The agriturismo is in such a convenient location — rural and slightly off the beaten path, but we were able to make easy day trips to Mount Etna, Taormina, Aci Trezza, and our great-grandfather’s hometown of Castanea delle Furie. If we had been more ambitious (or willing to drive 2.5 hours each way), we could have gone as far as Cefalù or Siracusa.

The three of us shared a comfortable two-bedroom suite. And the pool was very welcome on a hot day. Best of all, the people that run this agriturismo are lovely.

See all Sicily agriturismo stays on Airbnb here.

Give Yourself Downtime

Sicily travel can be exhausting — it’s the kind of destination that demands quite a bit of you. If you don’t give yourself ample downtime, you could become irritable. I’m glad I figured that out before it was to late. Soon it became apparent that we didn’t have time to go everywhere I wanted, which was disappointing, but the downtime made it worth it.

The perfect way to have downtime in Sicily? Head for the beach! You’re spoiled for choice on this island. Avola was home to the nicest stretch of sand we saw in Sicily, but there were many others.

Our best day of downtime, however, was in Aci Trezza — a low-key town on the water with rocky beaches and beach clubs on overwater decks. If you want a REALLY Sicilian day, relaxing at a beach club is the way to do it!

Aci Trezza: A Laid-Back Seaside Town in Sicily

Dive into Delicious Sicilian Food

What’s the food like in Sicily? It’s incredible. Like everywhere else in Italy, both Sicily and the regions in Sicily have their own local specialties. Even the towns have their signature dishes!

Here are some Sicilian dishes to try:

Arancini — Rice balls stuffed with anything from meat sauce to cheese and vegetables. The perfect snack food for any time of day (yes, I once had one for breakfast).

Pasta alla norma — Pasta with tomatoes, eggplant, basil, and ricotta salata.

Caponata — Fried eggplant with tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, capers, and other vegetables, on its own as a side dish or served on crostini or with other dishes.

All the fresh seafood you can find — It’s the Mediterranean — it’s good. Try everything. I once had a  spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) that nearly made me cry, it was so good.

Frutta martorana — This is what Sicilians call marzipan. It comes from the town of Martora.

Cannoli — The world-famous pastry is from Sicily (which may be why you couldn’t find one in Venice). Keep in mind that cannolo is the singular form.

Oh, and granita . Which brings me to my next item…

Eat Granita Every Day

If you’re used to eating gelato in Italy, go Sicilian — it’s time for granita!

Granita is basically slush for adults, and I don’t know what they put in it, but it’s better than any slush I have ever had. It’s dairy-free, yet tastes so creamy! Sometimes it’s served with brioche. Some people even eat it for breakfast!

Try as many granita flavors as you can, but I especially recommend mandorla , or almond. Honestly, I have no words for how good mandorla granita is. You won’t find anything like that in your home country, that’s for sure! Simply heavenly.

I loved lemon and caffe, too. My favorite granita cafe was Bambar  in Taormina, pictured above. Try granita with cream at least once, too!

Count Your Change

I hate to say it, but my mom and I noticed on four different occasions when visiting Sicily that we weren’t given enough change — and most of the time we didn’t bother to check, so who knows how many other times it happened?

Soon we were counting our change after every cash transaction, and we couldn’t believe how often we were given the wrong amount back.

By the time the final incident happened, when a granita seller handed me back a 50-cent piece instead of a euro, I snapped, “ É vero? ” (“Seriously?”) and held up the coin. He shrugged like it was nothing and gave me a euro.

Keep an eye on your change.

When to Visit Sicily

While it’s important to take the weather into consideration when you travel in Italy, it’s even more important when you visit Sicily. Sicily has some of the highest temperatures in all of Italy.

High season in Sicily is during the summer months: June to August. This is when Sicily’s destinations are at their most crowded, expensive, and hot. Low-to-high temperatures range from about 71-87 F (22-31 C), and it often feels blisteringly hotter.

Sicily is a popular beach getaway destination for Italians, and August is the month when Italians take a month off, shut their businesses down, and head for the sea ( Ferragosto ). I recommend travelers don’t visit Italy in August if they can help it for this reason.

If you know you have a hard time tolerating heat, I strongly recommend you visit Sicily between October and April. The weather will be a million times more pleasant.

Shoulder season in Sicily is roughly April, May, September, and October. Low-to-high temperatures range from about 53-82 F (11-28 C). Late spring and early fall feel like summer in Sicily. September and even October are still good beach months, as the water is warmed up, but they’re less crowded, as the kids have gone back to school.

I love shoulder season because temperatures are much more pleasant and popular destinations are less crowded and less expensive. It’s the best of both worlds.

Winter in Sicily never gets too cold — even in January, temperatures are 48-58 F (9-15 C). This might be light jacket weather for you — though know that Sicilians will be bundled up against the “cold” in their thick coats! Lots of tourists from Northern Europe visit Sicily in the winter to get a bit of sunshine.

If you’re interested in visiting Sicily for its culture, food, wine, architecture, ruins, and history — and have less of an interest in beaches — winter is a great time to visit. And you can even ski on Mount Etna! It’s not the greatest skiing in the world, but how cool is it to say you’ve skied on a volcano in Italy?!

One important thing to know: many resort-y destinations in Sicily shut down in the winter. The Aeolian Islands are essentially shut down; many hotels and restaurants in Taormina and Cefalù close for the season.

Overall, I recommend visiting Sicily in shoulder season if possible, but you can enjoy the island 12 months out of the year.

Solo Travel in Sicily

Is Sicily a good destination for solo travel? It depends. After my experience, I’m not sure that I would recommend Sicily as a destination for most solo travelers. Of course, solo travelers (and solo female travelers) can go anywhere they’d like and have a great time; I just don’t think that Sicily would be one of the better choices — not within Italy, not within Europe.

I say this mostly because of the driving. When my mother, sister, and I traveled together, driving was a three-person job. Mom drove, I navigated, and Sarah looked out for rogue drivers. Once Sarah left and I took on her job, it was still very difficult.

I could not imagine doing that driving on my own.  If you drive alone, even with a GPS, know that you will be going down the wrong streets all the time.

Additionally, the communication difficulties mean that you may spend a lot of time feeling isolated and lonely. You may want to stay somewhere like a hostel or agriturismo in order to meet more people, including fellow travelers who speak English.

That said, Sicilians are very warm and friendly people. Even if you’re not able to communicate, they’ll welcome you with open arms. And the island is full of so many cultural treasures that you won’t lack for things to do and places to see.

Finally, if you’re traveling solo in Sicily, consider sticking to the beaten path. You’ll have an easier and more relaxing time. If you want to travel off the beaten path, I recommend getting more travel experience elsewhere in Italy first.

Solo Female Travel in Italy — Is it Safe?

How to Make Sicily Travel Easier

If you’re interested in traveling to Sicily but are a bit nervous about its challenges, I have a few recommendations to make your trip better. Sicily is the kind of destination where it helps to have locals help you with your trip.

First off, consider booking a Sicily trip with JayWay Travel . JayWay Travel books custom private trips in Central, Eastern, and Southern Europe. Sicily is one of their specialties and they know the island backwards and forwards.

JayWay organizes your trip and hooks you up with activities like cooking classes and winery visits, as well as private transfers. After you chat about what kind of trip you want, they’ll know which hotels and agriturismi in Sicily will fit your needs best. They give you a SIM card or phone to stay connected. Basically, they build you a great trip and handle all the hard parts of Sicily travel.

JayWay’s Highlights of Eastern Sicily itinerary gives you eight days basing in Taormina, Ragusa, and Siracusa and doing excursions from there. JayWay’s Best of Sicily itinerary gives you 11 days in Palermo, Agrigento, Ragusa, Siracusa, Mount Etna, and Catania. And each itinerary is customizable.

Another option is to visit Sicily on a group tour. I recommend traveling with G Adventures , who organize small, sustainability-minded group tours all over the world.

G’s Best of Sicily tour takes you around the island in eight days, visiting Catania, Palermo, Monreale, Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, Siracusa, Randazzo, and Mount Etna.

Is Sicily Worth Visiting?

I hope this post has given you clarity about what it’s really like to travel in Sicily. This is a wonderful, vibrant, unforgettable part of Italy — but if you’re not prepared for its challenges, it can be disappointing.

In case you’re wondering whether it’s still worth visiting Sicily, my answer is a resounding YES. Sicily redefined what Italy could be, in my mind. It has a delightful mischief that I found tough to find in other parts of Italy, and I want to recapture that joy again.

I love Sicily — and I want to go back. As I write this update, I’m wondering where I’ll go on my next Sicily trip. Definitely Cefalù (it broke my heart missing it the first time!), the Aeolian Islands, diving into Palermo’s craziness, and I can’t resist a return visit to my beloved Siracusa, my favorite place in Sicily.

Planning a Trip to Italy:

• What NOT to Do in Italy
• Solo Female Travel in Italy: Is it Safe?
• Ultimate Guide to Driving in Italy
• How to Stay at an Agriturismo in Italy
• 40 Italy Landmarks to Experience Once In Your Lifetime
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime
• 30 Italian Cities To Visit Once In Your Lifetime

Cool Places in Southern Italy:

• Tropea, Italy: A Spectacularly Situated Beach Town
• The Stunning Trulli of Alberobello, Italy
• 16 Fun Things To Do In Sorrento
• 17 Fun Things to do in Bari, Italy
• 16 Fab Things to do in Lecce, Italy
• 15 Best Things to do in Monopoli, Italy
• 17 Fun Things to do in Matera, Italy

Cool Places in Sicily:

• 22 Best Places to Visit in Sicily
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily
• Complete Guide to the Aeolian Islands, Sicily
• Aci Trezza: A Laid-Back Coastal Town in Sicily
• Visiting Sicily in the Winter: Worth it or not?
• 30 Iconic Dishes To Try In Sicily

Cool Places in Northern Italy:

• Three Weeks in Northern Italy: An Itinerary
• Parma, Italy: A Colorful, Artsy, Delicious Town
• Where to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation
• Three Days in the Dolomites: A South Tyrol Getaway
• Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy
• The Immaculate, Bursting Mosaics of Ravenna, Italy
• 25 Best Food Experiences in Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Essential Info: I got my SIM card at Vodafone in Rome’s airport. Vodafone shops are in most towns. The coverage was great for Sicily and worked almost everywhere, though you may not have coverage in more rural areas. In Zafferana Etnea, Sicily, we stayed in a two-bedroom suite at  Agriturismo La Rocca della Rosa . This is a wonderful agriturismo with a pool, great food, and the kindest owners, Maria and Franz. You’ll love it here. It’s in a perfect location for exploring Mount Etna and northeast Sicily; the town of Zafferana is lovely, too (don’t miss Blue Gel gelato!). If you stay there, please tell Maria and Franz that Kate, Deb and Sarah say hi! Find and book agriturismi in Sicily by selecting “farm stay” under “unique stays” on Airbnb. You can see all the farm stays in Sicily here. We did the  Etna Summer Sunset Experience  excursion from  Etna Experience , and it was a wonderful way to see the volcano up close and hike a small part of it, finishing with wine and snacks at a beautiful sunset spot. 54 EUR ($60) in summer, 44 EUR ($49) in other seasons. While in Zafferana, we made easy day trips to Taormina and Aci Trezza as well as Etna and my great-grandfather’s village, Castanea delle Furie (the latter of which has zero tourist value and you should not visit). It’s best to have a car in Zafferana and vital if you want to do any day trips. In Avola, Sicily, we stayed at  this two-bedroom Airbnb apartment  for $40 per night plus Airbnb fees. The apartment is clean, cool, modern, and located right by the main square downtown. Giovanni, the host, is an osteopath, has his office downstairs, and offers both massages and adjustments for very good prices! Compare rates on hotels in Avola here . Avola is a bit of an offbeat place, and you’ll be the one of very few non-Italians in town, but it has a great beach. Keep in mind that downtown Avola is dead during the day but comes to life at night. There is a wine bar on Piazza Umberto that makes a FABULOUS cheese and salume plate. Spend your days hanging at the beach or exploring cities nearby like Siracusa, Noto, Modica, and Ragusa; I visited Siracusa and Ragusa and recommend them both. Travel insurance is vital for Sicily travel — it could save your life or your finances if you have an emergency on your trip. I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Sicily .

Have you ever been to a destination that challenged you as a traveler? Share away!

15 Best Things to do in Palermo, Sicily

Energetic, hectic, and overwhelmingly beautiful — this is the infectious city of Palermo, Sicily! Widely considered the most conquered city in the world, its chaotic history means it’s become a melting pot of cultural influences that can be seen in its people, culture, and food. From African-style street markets and Grecian temples to contemporary Italian restaurants and fantastic beaches, these are the top things to do in Palermo.

Things to do in Palermo

Palermo is the capital of Sicily, home to many beautiful buildings, delicious restaurants, and fascinating stories. It’s one of those places that you can enjoy simply by walking around, taking in the sounds, smells, and sights.

Also read: What to do in Sicily, Italy .

Once a famous mafia hotspot, Palermo is now one of the most up-and-coming places for a city trip. Plus, many attractions are also half-price for Europeans under 25, making the city very accessible for travelers.

Tip: Parking is an issue in cities around Sicily, and Palermo is no exception. We recommend researching parking on the fringes of the city and then walking or taking the bus into the center. 

Here are all your hotel options in Palermo.

1. Norman Palace (Palazzo dei Normanni)

The Norman Palace is one of the oldest royal residences in Europe and a top thing to do in Palermo! The stunning palace is a must-see in the Sicilian capital — home to beautiful botanic gardens and the intricately designed Palatine Chapel (Capella Palatina). Although it doesn’t look much from the outside, the interior is stunning, particularly the gold mosaic detailing of the Capella. ( Book a guided tour here )

Spend a few hours exploring the many different areas of the grand palazzo; stroll through the peaceful gardens, take photos of the colorful species of plants and trees, and relax with a drink on the outdoor terrace. 

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday to Saturday. Open Sunday from 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM. Price between 15.50-19 EUR depending on the day ( check website for details ).

Villa Bonanno Garden

One of the most intriguing things about Sicily is the paradox between bustling city and tranquil hidden spots. Nestled between the Norman Palace and the Cathedral is one of the most peaceful areas: the Villa Bonnano Garden. This peaceful, green oasis is filled with palm trees, flowers, and tinkling fountains.

Also read: Things to do in Catania, Sicily .

Relax on a bench in the shade, watching street artists at work and take in the chilled-out atmosphere.

Hotels in Palermo 😴

2. Palermo Cathedral

In line with the city’s complex history, Palermo Cathedral is a fascinating building made up of many different architectural styles. From the outside, it’s not a typical-looking cathedral. Instead, it’s made up of stunning arches that face a luscious plaza filled with green shrubs and palm trees. ( Book your guided tour here )

Take a quiet moment to sit and look at the exterior from one of the many cafes around the cathedral. Alternatively, climb to the rooftop for amazing views of the city (best done at sunset as one of the top things to do in Palermo!). 

Entry Fee: It costs 15 EUR for the full ticket, which includes entry to the Cathedral, museum, and rooftop access. Find the opening times for each area here .

3. Duomo of Monreale

Just outside of Palermo is the stunning and grandiose Monreale Cathedral. This incredible site is one of the absolute must-sees in Sicily, home to Byzantine detailing, which reminded us of the Alhambra in Granada. However, while beautiful, it’s mainly famous for its breathtaking mosaics depicting stories from the bible.

After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site , climb the stairs to the attic and take in incredible views of Palermo from the fringes of the city.

Did you know? The Cathedral is constructed from 1800 kg of pure gold! 

Tip: There is not much to see in Monreale town besides the cathedral. Instead, simply relax with a coffee outside in the sunshine after you’ve explored the beautiful interiors.

How to Visit the Duomo of Monreale

The Duomo is open every day from 9 AM – 5 PM (closed 12:45 PM – 2:30 PM) except Sunday when it is open 2:30 PM – 5 PM. 

It’s a 30-minute drive from the center of Palermo (we visited it on our way to the city). You can park your car just 5 minutes from the Cathedral or arrange a tour that includes transport.

See tickets and availability for a half-day tour to Monreale

4. Orto Botanico di Palermo, Sicily

The Palermo Botanical Gardens are a peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located on the coastline, the gardens are home to 12,000 species of plants, beautiful neoclassical buildings, and lovely water features. It’s the perfect spot to escape the Sicilian sun!

Orto Botanico is open every day from 9 AM – sunset, and tickets cost 7 EUR.

Read: 12 Best Things to do in Taormina, Sicily!

5. Visit the Bustling Food Markets

Sicily has a fantastic street food culture, and Palermo is right at the beating heart of it! Exploring the many incredible open-air markets in the city is one of the best things to do in Palermo, Sicily. 

The three main ones are Mercato del Capo, Mercato di Ballaro, and Mercato di Vucciria. These Arab-style street markets, which have been influenced by Sicily’s proximity to North Africa and the Middle East , are a lively and vibrant display of colors, noise, and smells. It can be intense when crowded, particularly in the mornings, but embrace the craziness and get stuck in! 

Opening Times: The markets are open Monday to Saturday from 7 AM – 8 PM. Please note that on Wednesday, they close at 1 PM. The mornings are normally when it is busiest. 

Mercato di Ballarò

Our favorite market was Mercato di Ballarò, the biggest and the busiest of the three. Here you can find stalls piled high with fresh fruit and vegetables, slabs of cheese and giant olives, vendors shouting for attention, and huge sizzling pans of street food. Make sure to try some cannoli, as Palermo is where the delicious crunchy treat originated!

Tip: Don’t wear flip-flops at any of the markets, as there is lots of water (and other things!) on the streets around the seafood stalls.

6. Sip an Aperitivo

Aperitivo is a way of life in Italy , and Sicily is no exception! Enjoying a refreshing drink before dinner is said to help you work up an appetite, so do as the Sicilians do and sit down to enjoy an aperitivo on the restaurant terraces. This is one of the top things to do in Palermo and certainly the most relaxing!

There are plenty of great places to enjoy this cultural ritual in the heart of the city. Some of our favorites are:

• Bottega Monteleone
• Seven Restaurant & Rooftop Cocktail Bar
• Mak Mixology
• cheers Wine Bar

7. Church of the Gesú, Palermo

Although it seems like any other church from the outside, once you step inside, the Church of the Gesú takes your breath away with its extensive Baroque detailing. Take some time to marvel at its intricately decorated walls, ceilings, marble statues, and beautiful frescoes.

Best of all, it’s conveniently located close to the Ballarò market, so it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re already in this area of Palermo.

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open from 7:45 AM – 4:30 PM daily (Sunday hours may vary due to mass). No entrance fee, but donations are welcomed.

8. Fontana Pretoria

In the center of Palermo, Sicily, is the Piazza Pretoria. This bustling square is the place to go for street musicians and locals — everyone hanging out and enjoying the balmy evening air. The centerpiece of the piazza is the unique Pretoria Fountain, surrounded by regal stone stairs, which you can walk up from all sides.

During the day, the Fontana Pretoria is the perfect place to spend some time before heading to Caffè del Kassaro, a great lunch spot with amazing pizza. At night, the 16th-century fountain is lit up, making this spot even more beautiful.

Did you know? The fountain was nicknamed the ‘Fountain of Shame’ by conservative locals due to its naked figures.

9. Santa Caterina Church

Visiting this beautiful tucked-away spot is an absolute top thing to do in Palermo, Sicily. Santa Caterina Church is a former monastery, still functioning as a church, with a museum on site. From the outside, it seems like most other churches. However, if you visit the interior, you’ll be blown away by the fantastic frescoes that cover the walls and ceilings.

Best of all, there’s a pastry shop on site called I Segreti del Chiostro, packed with sweet treats made by the nuns. Some say you’ll find the best cannoli in town here; you can even create your own toppings! Unfortunately, there is no seating in the shop. However, you can take your pastry, coffee, or fresh orange juice and sit down in the beautiful church courtyard outside.

Relax in this beautiful oasis within the city, taking in the fountain sounds, picturesque mosaic tiles, and citrus trees. Open 10 AM – 6 PM every day.

Tip: You can also visit the rooftop of Santa Caterina Church, where you’ll find beautiful views of Palermo and the Pretoria Fountain. It costs 10 EUR to see everything (church, monastery, and roof terrace).

10. Bunker Di San Cataldo

Bunker Di San Cataldo is one of the most off-the-beaten-path destinations in Sicily and one of the top things to do in Palermo! This ancient abandoned bunker was built on top of the cliff during WWII and used primarily as a lookout. These days, it’s still not super easy to find, hidden away on the rocks of this remarkable coastline. However, it’s well worth discovering, as it offers spectacular views of the azure ocean water. 

Best of all, there are almost no tourists here! This means you can have the place almost entirely to yourself as you relax and watch the color of the water change from emerald green to bright turquoise over the course of the day. You can even see a volcanic cave (Grotta delle colombe) from this spot!

Note: There are stairs from here that lead down to the water. However, it is not safe to swim because of the high level of pollution here (occurring from industrial spills). 

Getting to Bunker Di San Cataldo

You can find the bunker at Cala Muletti, close to the more well-known San Cataldo Bay. The exact location is here . It’s a 40-minute drive to reach the bunker; you’ll need a car, as there are no public transport options.

We recommend to rent a car in Sicily through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Park the car at this location before walking down to the beach. Once you’ve reached the beach, turn right, and follow the cliffside along an overgrown gravel path and an abandoned building (approximately a 5-minute walk). Be aware that this path goes alongside a cliff, so there is a minor risk of falling rocks. 

Although it’s a little challenging to find, it is relatively easy to access the bunker. Plus, it’s well worth the car rental price as it was one of the most impressive spots we visited in all of Sicily!

Note : Sadly, there was a lot of trash on the beach. Please do your best to be a sustainable traveler and take all your trash away with you in order to preserve this beautiful spot.

11. Temple of Segesta

This stunning temple looks like it could be straight out of Greece — an Acropolis-style structure crafted by an architect from Athens in 420 BC! The temple’s remains and surrounding settlement can be found on a small hill surrounded by meadows and wildflowers, making it a truly beautiful spot to visit.

Drive from the city, and witness this impressive structure appearing on the horizon (one of the top things to do in Palermo!). It’s the remains of an old Roman amphitheater on a hill, surrounded by the mountains of Sicily on all sides. 

Also visit: Valley of the Temples in Sicily .

How to Visit the Temple of Segesta

Tickets cost 6 EUR to visit the Temple of Segesta. It costs 2 EUR for a round-trip shuttle bus to the theater (many people choose to do this instead of walking as it’s hilly).

Opening times vary depending on the time of year, so always check ahead on the official site before your visit.

Getting there: It’s a 1-hour drive from Palermo to the Temple of Segesta. Because of this, we recommend combining your visit with a day trip to the Bunker Di San Cataldo. Alternatively, add it as a stop-off on the journey between Palermo and Trapani as part of your Sicily road trip .

If you don’t have a car, it’s possible to join a tour from Palermo which includes return transportation and entry.

See availability and tickets for a tour of the Temple of Segesta

12. Catacombe dei Cappuchini

Catacombe dei Cappuchini is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Palermo! The eerie catacombs are located underneath the Capuchin Monastery, where you’ll find dark corridors filled with the mummified remains of thousands of corpses. Most of the remains are incredibly well preserved and dressed in clothes from the time of their death.

This spiritual site can sometimes feel quite morbid, so it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted!

Entry fee and opening times: 3 EUR (cash). Open 9 AM – 12:30 PM, 3 PM – 5:30 PM. Please note that no pictures are allowed inside, as this is an important spiritual site.

13. Trip to Cefalú

If you’ve got time on your trip to Palermo, Sicily, we recommend visiting the idyllic beach town of Cefalú — one of the most picturesque places on the island! Spectacular all year round, but particularly special in summer, Cefalú is the place to enjoy the authentic Dolce Vita lifestyle. 

Read about Cefalu in Sicily .

Take a stroll through the medieval old town with its sandy-colored houses, and sip on a cappuccino in the Piazza del Duomo. After, head down to the Old Harbor, with its tiny beach, for some well-earned sunbathing. From the pier, you will see the most iconic view of the stunning shoreline with its backdrop of rustic houses and La Rocca di Cefalú behind it. 

Tip: If you’re traveling by car, consider stopping at Sant’Elia, a tiny fishing village with views that will take your breath away.

14. Beaches in Palermo

There are some stunning beaches around Palermo, Sicily, and in the hot summer months, the turquoise ocean is the perfect place to escape the heat. Some great beaches in the area are: 

• Mondello Beach . Most popular with locals is the beautiful Mondello Beach, with its soft white sand and clear blue water. Best of all, it’s just a 20-minute drive from the city center, making it easily accessible on your trip to Palermo, Sicily.
• Sant’Elia . Further down the coast (40 minutes by car), discover this charming fishing village with colorful houses perched on the edge of rocky coves. Visiting this picturesque coastal retreat is one of the best things to do in Palermo and the perfect place to swim with its crystal clear, emerald-green water.
• Ombelico di Venere . Only a 40-minute drive away from Palermo is the beautiful and rugged shoreline of Ombelico di Venere. This stretch of beach is wide and open and, because of its pebbly character, is home to clear water that’s fantastic for a dip or snorkeling.
• Cefalù . This medieval fishing town is home to several dreamy beaches, both pebbled and sandy, to enjoy. It’s an hour from Palermo, so visit on a day trip or stay the night on your road trip through Sicily. 

15. Teatro Massimo

The Massimo Theater is Palermo’s opera house and the largest theater in Italy. Used as a filming location for famous films and TV shows like The Godfather Part III and The White Lotus, the theater’s interior is absolutely stunning and can be explored on a guided tour where you can learn more about its history and architecture. Better yet, check their website for upcoming events and treat yourself to a live performance!

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: Open 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Guided tours cost 10 EUR (5 EUR for those under the age of 26).  Book your tour in advance here .

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Palermo, Italy

Palermo is a haven for anyone who loves food. Street food stalls, open-air markets, gelaterias, and family-owned trattorias are around every corner, just waiting to be discovered. Food is cheap, with two pizzas and drinks costing as little as 15 EUR. 

Local food that you should try in Palermo include arancini, crispy chickpea fritters, Sicilian pizza, spleen and ricotta sandwiches (!), and of course, cannoli. Here are our favorite food spots in Palermo:

• Caffè del Kassaro
• Ristorante La Galleria
• Fúnnaco PizzaLab
• aTipico (vegan)
• I Segreti del Chiostro (pastry shop)
• Cioccolateria Lorenzo

Tip: Be aware that restaurants don’t open before 7 PM, with most people having dinner around 9 PM. Never assume a restaurant is open despite their opening times on Google Maps, and it is best to book beforehand.

Where to Stay in Palermo, Sicily

It’s best to stay around the historic center of Palermo, so you are within walking distance of all the main sights. We stayed at Canceddi B&B, close to some of the top things to do in Palermo, like the Cathedral and the Norman Palace.

Bear in mind that accommodation is a little more expensive than in other places in Sicily, but you can find reasonably priced hotels and B&Bs, particularly in the Kalsa neighborhood.

How Many Days in Palermo?

Allocate 3-5 days to enjoy all the top things to do in Palermo. This is also a good amount of time to take a day trip or two outside the city. 

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Sicily is a very relaxed place, so don’t feel like you have to rush around – take time to get lost in the narrow streets, hang out at the beach, and enjoy long, drawn-out lunches!

Is Palermo Safe?

The Sicilian mafia, Cosa Nostra, has a long and bloody history on the island. However, these days, their influence is low, and organized crime operations don’t pose a threat to tourists.

If you want to learn more, there are a few anti-mafia walking tours that tell you about the violent history of Palermo and point out the businesses that are opposed to the mafia. We recommend supporting these if you can.

Learn more about the anti-mafia movement on this popular walking tour

Tip: As with any other big city, be aware of your belongings and use your common sense at night. 

How to Visit Palermo, Sicily

The Palermo international airport is about 30 km away from the city center. Please note that although Palermo is the capital, the bigger airport in Sicily is Catania , which is approximately a 3-hour drive away.

There are frequent buses and trains to the center, which take between 45 minutes to an hour and cost 5-10 EUR. The quickest option is a taxi, but this will cost significantly more.

If you are on a Sicily road trip , you can easily reach Palermo by car, but we wouldn’t recommend driving around once you’re in the city. There are many car rental companies in the center if you plan to start your trip from here. Remember that parking can be an issue, so double-check with your hotel before you arrive where is the best place to park.

Palermo is a port city, so plenty of ferries are arriving daily from many destinations in mainland Italy and around Europe . You can also take a ferry from Salerno to Messina (the narrowest stretch of water) and take the train from there to Palermo.

See availability for a ferry trip to Messina

There are trains available all over the island that connect the main tourist spots, and there are lovely scenic routes through the Sicilian countryside and along the coast. Train timetables can sometimes be unreliable, so be prepared to be flexible. You can also take the train from mainland Italy, which crosses the Strait of Messina by boat!

Book your train tickets in advance

Getting Around

We don’t recommend driving in the city, as there is a lot of congestion, so if you are arriving by car, park by your hotel and explore on foot. The city center is compact; you can walk to most attractions within half an hour or less. 

How Much Does Palermo Cost?

Palermo is a reasonably cheap travel destination compared to other more touristy destinations in Italy. It’s walkable, the food is very cheap (you can get two pizzas and water for as cheap as 15 euros!), and museums and tourist attractions aren’t expensive to visit. 

Costs of Traveling in Palermo

Travel on a budget in Palermo, from $340 − $290 USD weekly per person, mid-range $580 − $1630 USD, and high-end from $1560 − $2270 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $35 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $45 USD
• Activities: $10 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Palermo, Italy

The best time to visit Palermo, Italy, is during the shoulder seasons, particularly late spring and early fall when the weather is warm and sunny (perfect for exploring). 

The summer months can get very busy, with September being the island’s busiest month for tourism, so prices can increase during this time. As a big city, there are always things to see and do, regardless of the season, so it really depends on your budget and preferences!

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Cortona, Italy: The Gem of Southern Tuscany

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Sicily Travel Guide

Sicily is a picturesque and serene island, that somehow also seems to be full of drama. Choose your own adventure from your luxury  villa in Sicily ; whether you’re all about exploring history, food and drink or want to spend your time soaking up the sun. Mount Etna dominates the landscape, it’s active presence providing forests, mountainsides and cold lava streams to explore. The cities are bustling with activity in the form of markets, theatres and great shopping – all in the shelter of beautiful ancient streets. Learn more about the type of holiday you’d like to experience with our handy Sicily travel guide – packed with tips, inspiration and things to add to your holiday to-do list.

• HIDDEN GEMS

The largest island in the Mediterranean might be part of Italy, but Sicily has carved out its own distinct personality over the centuries. Boasting a smattering of medieval towns and villages, where the heady smells of centuries-old Sicilian dishes waft along cobbled lanes. So whether you’re looking to lounge on perfect beaches, dine on sumptuous Sicilian fare, ski a volcano, take a wine tour or two or explore ancient ruins, Sicily will most happily oblige.

When to visit

Sicily is one of Europe’s most southerly destinations – parts of it are even on the same latitude as North Africa. This means that the island enjoys a long, warm season and can be visited year-round . You could be swimming in the bath-warm waters right into November if you’re lucky. Yet, the gentle coastal breezes mean that even in the height of summer ( July and August ) when the temperatures do rocket, it isn’t too stifling.

Shoulder seasons make for a perfect time to visit. Spring arrives early and autumn settles in late; so April to June, and September to late October bring with them balmy temperatures, warm seas and fewer tourists. Having said that, if you do choose to visit in the height of summer, Sicily’s long coastline seems to easily absorb the crowds and it never feels too busy. For the best hiking, February is a good choice as the weather is cool yet sunny and the ground carpeted with wildflowers, while the winter months are popular for those looking to ski down the slopes of Mount Etna.

Typical sights

• Taormina – Wander the cobbled streets of this charming medieval town.
• Mount Etna – Ski down or climb up one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
• Agrigento – Wander among the UNESCO-listed ancient Greek remains of the Valley of the Temples.
• Palermo – Take in the boisterous vibe of one the capital’s street markets.
• Syracuse – Explore the history and ancient architecture of this 2,700 year-old city.
• Lipari and the Aeolian Islands – Relax in whitewashed villages beneath bubbling volcanoes.
• San Vito Lo Capo (Zingaro Nature Reserve) – Laze on the Blue Flag beaches.
• Piazza Armerina and Villa Romana del Casale – Gawp at some of the world’s oldest and most beautiful Roman mosaics.
• Erice – Ride a cable car to the ancient mountain-top castle.

Sicily Travel Guide: Map of the best sights to visit

Getting Around

• Airports: Flights from the UK go directly into Palermo airport on a regular basis. You can also easily get to Catania on a direct flight through major and budget airlines. Other airports on the island include Trapani and Comiso.
• Public transport : Trenitalia offers a fairly comprehensive rail service that connects the main cities on the island, and is efficient and cost-effective. To get to more off-the-beaten-path destinations, buses are a better bet as there is a pretty good network connecting smaller towns and villages. Bear in mind that on Sundays, service slows to a trickle.
• Hiring a car:  Hiring is a car and a  monthly parking service  is the best way to get better acquainted with Sicily and hunt out those hidden spots. It is also a good option for the time-tight traveller as public transport timetables can be limiting. Car hire tends to be in higher demand come summer, so it’s best to book ahead at this time. The driving conditions on the island are generally very good and there are some excellent motorways connecting the main cities and towns. Parking in the cities during peak months, however, can be a tad tricky to find.

Hidden Gems

• Just south of Syracuse in Avola is the Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve , one of Sicily’s best kept secrets. A vast, 10 kilometre-long gorge has been carved by the Cassibile River, through which a series of fresh water pools and waterfalls tumble. Spend a day hiking, clambering and (if you’re brave enough) taking a dip in the ice-cold water. There are beautiful wildflowers, butterflies and several interesting archaeological ruins here too.
• The entire town of Caltagirone is ablaze with vivid colour and vibrant patterns crafted onto ceramic tiles. Everywhere you look, the centuries-old traditional ceramics adorn the buildings, houses and shops of the old town. The highlight of a trip is the 142 steps leading to the Santa Maria del Monte church, which are completely decorated in the town’s tell-tale ceramics. If you want to recreate the effect back at home, pick up some tiles of your own at the shops here.

• Though perhaps not best described as a ‘gem’, the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo are certainly hidden. You’ll find them in the limestone corridors under the Capuchin Church, where over 8,000 mummies, each dressed in their finest clothes, are either laying down or hung by hooks from their necks. Dating to the 16th century, the catacombs are eerily well-preserved and a macabre but fascinating experience.
• Since the days of the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans, Sicily’s salt flats have been an important resource. Today, mounds of blindingly white salt – some of the oldest salt marshes in Europe – dot the Lo Stagnone lagoon just outside of Trapani. Windmills add a romantic touch to the scene and there are a couple of interesting museums here too. The salt is used liberally in regional cooking, and adds a unique flavour.
• Perched on a hilltop 1,000 metres above sea level, the romantic little town of Enna is steeped in history and mythology. At its heart is the imposing medieval castle, from which there are staggering views across the lower valleys. Spend a delightful day wandering around the cobbled streets, visiting the charming Duomo (cathedral) and a spattering of small museums.

Sicily is a popular destination with holidaying mainland Italians, and with bambinos being at the heart of every Italian family, there is plenty to keep them happy. Raucous theme and aqua parks, traditional puppetry, donkey trekking and dinosaur parks are just a few of the exciting options that have made it onto our list of the best activities for children, whether they’re tiny tots or older teens.

Best Family Holiday Activities in Sicily

• If you like your volcanoes with a side of cute, check out Etna Donkey Trekking , who will take everyone on a steady but fun trek in the foothills of the great volcano.
• Piccolo Teatro dei Pupi   is a great family-run theatre to take your kids to marvel at this ancient art form.
• Be Tarzan for the day on the rope swings, nets and treetop obstacles at  Monti Rossi Adventure Park .
• Sicily Bike Routes   run tours to suit all levels and also rent bikes if you’d rather pedal at your own pace.

For more brilliant family-friendly ideas to do in Sicily, check out our family activities blog .

Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Sicily

Sicily is blessed with a huge expanse of dramatic coastline, so you will be spoiled for choice with beaches wherever you stay on the island. Sicily’s famously clear waters make for fantastic snorkelling, and the sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming six months a year, so your water babies will love it.

• The steep descent to the beach of Mazzaro is best done by cable car from Taormina. Major fun points! This pebble beach also has kayak rentals, perfect for exploring the nature reserve of Isola Bella, in the centre of the bay.
• The long sandy sweep of beach at Cefalu is one of the loveliest on the island. It has a great range of facilities too, perfect for whatever your family may need for  a beach day.
• The Blue Flag beach of Lido Fiori is a relaxed sandy expanse close to the village of Menfi. The shallow water is perfect for splashing about and paddling with little ones.
• Fontane Bianche is a huge 3km stretch of coastline, close to Syracuse. Warm, gentle sea, great facilities and sun loungers and parasols for hire make it hugely popular with families.

Stuck for ideas for what to do? Sail on the crystal-clear waters, survey some of Europe’s most impressive archaeological remains or get cultural with a night at the opera. Speed up the slopes of a volcano in jeeps or on quad bikes, or take a leisurely guided bicycle ride through the countryside. Learn to cook regional cuisine and then sit down to a large noisy meal with friends and family Sicilian-style.

Adrenaline-fuelled group activities

If you’re the type of group that likes to get out and about, you’ll be spoilt for choice in action-packed Sicily.

Mount Etna is an absolute mecca for all things active. If you’re a team of ski-bums and are visiting Sicily between December and March head to Go Taormina to organize downhill and cross-country ski days on the great volcano. For the more sun-loving, Go Etna run hair-raising tours of Etna’s ancient forests and lava streams by Jeep, with civilised pit stops at vineyards along the way.

Saddle up for some two-wheeled fun with a bike excursion from Etna Tribe .  You can hire bikes to explore under your own steam or sign yourselves up for a guided mountain bike tour.

When you’re on an island, and surrounded by beautiful coastline, the best way to see it is by boat. Buena Vida Catamarano  run tours on impressive catamarans, where you can help out with the sailing or dive in to snorkel your way around.

Laid-back activities for groups

For the more sedate holiday, Sicily has lots of mellow days for you too. You could spend an entire week on the island’s fantastic beaches, or if you wanted to venture further afield without breaking a sweat, Tour of Sicily offer luxurious coach tours of Mount Etna where you can take in all the impressive sights in total comfort. If culture is more your bag, they also offer city-based tours, where you can explore fascinating cities like Syracuse.

To get a real feel for Sicilian high-class society of old, take in a show at  Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele .  The baroque architecture of the theatre creates a stunning setting to get dressed up and take in a ballet or an opera. And while we’re on the subject of performances, another must is to take in an open air show at the incredible greek amphitheatre in Taormina .

A worthwhile afternoon should certainly be spent ambling around Palermo’s extensive street market, Mercato di Ballarò . You’ll be able to find pretty much anything you could desire from children’s toys to terrifying hunting equipment and there are food stalls aplenty, all happy to provide tasters for a smile. It is held most days, but closes at lunchtime on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Sicilian food is a true hybrid cuisine, bearing influences from the centuries of settlers of Arabic, North African and French origin. Capers, tomatoes, olives and aubergines are staple ingredients, and seafood also plays a big part. Commonly eaten dishes include arancini (stuffed rice balls), aromatic couscous and hearty bowls of steaming pasta.

And what of wine, you ask? Italy may be home to such esteemed wine-producing regions as Piedmont and Tuscany, but Sicily manages to give its mainland counterparts a run for their money. Indeed, Sicilian wine-making dates back to the ancient Greeks and wineries on the fertile volcanic soils of Mount Etna produce world-class reds, whites and roses. For an after dinner tipple, be sure to try locally made limoncello liqueur. Well, when in Italy… do as the Italians do !

Best restaurants in Sicily

For fine dining, try  Ristorante La Madia , in Licata. Here you’ll find local and seasonal ingredients used to create traditional dishes with a modern twist. This restaurant’s two Michelin stars are well deserved, and the tasting menu is well worth dedicating an afternoon to.

Kids and adults alike will love the local institution that is  I Cuochini   in Palermo. This teeny hole-in-the-wall has been there for decades, serving up delicious traditional snack foods that are as moreish as they are delicious.

Dishes not to miss when in Sicily

When on a villa holiday in Sicily ,  there are a few things you need to try to ensure your palette get the best holiday it possibly can. First things first, pick up some juicy  local tomatoes ,  Pane Cunzato (seasoned bread) and whatever other favourite things from a local market, and whip up a picnic to enjoy on your patio.

While you’re out and about, arancine (fried risotto balls filled with ragu or ham and cheese), are the perfect snack food. For dinner, be sure to try the local specialities like the aubergine stew, caponata and pasta with sardines. 

Best foodie activities in Sicily

Eat as the locals do with a guided street food tour from  StrEAT Palermo , where you’ll sample local coffees, wines, snacks and more from the hidden gems around the city.

After eating in Sicily for a few days, you’ll wonder how you ever ate anything else. Turn that dream into a reality with one of the island’s plentiful cookery classes. The most authentic local recipes have been passed down for generations, learn from an actual Sicilian grandma with a course from  Zuleima Ospitalità Diffusa a Ragusa Ibla .  For a more studied approach, try the  Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School ,  which is located on a wine estate as an added bonus.

If wine is what you’re all about, a tour of the wineries on the island will be right up your street.  Go Etna   offer tours that take in several vineyards, tastings and a hefty dose of Sicily’s impressive scenery.

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21 Best Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily | Palermo Travel Blog

Palermo, Sicily. The rugged capital of Italy’s southernmost island, and not somewhere that makes it onto the Italian itinerary of most travellers. When I visited Palermo in July 2019, I initially only planned on staying for 3 days, but as soon as I arrived and strolled around the narrow cobbled streets of the historical centre, I knew that I would end up staying for longer. My 3 days turned into 6 months, and even though I’ve since moved on, living in Palermo remains one of my most treasured travel memories.

It is safe to say that Palermo truly stole my heart, and as I am passionate about promoting those destinations that don’t get enough love from tourists, I figured that I would write a Palermo travel guide that includes all the best things to do in Palermo, whether you’re a foodie or an adventure traveller. If you’re planning some Palermo travel, don’t worry, because this guide is packed with all of the best things to do in Palermo, one of the highlights of Sicily!

Table of Contents

21 Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily | Palermo Travel Blog

Why visit palermo.

I hadn’t heard many good things before I visited Palermo. People complained that it was ugly (not true), dirty (not true – only on the outskirts) and big (technically true but the main tourist sights are all very close together). Palermo has also had a pretty bad reputation historically due to organised crime, and so people often mistakenly assume that Palermo is unsafe to visit. Well my lovelies, I am here to tell you that not only are the naysayers totally wrong about Palermo, but that Palermo is truly the soul of Sicily , a rough diamond that you will absolutely fall in love with. While it is true that Palermo isn’t as polished as other Italian cities, and that Sicilian travel is sometimes challenging, it is also so rewarding. There are many reasons to visit Palermo , but some of the main ones are as follows.

Reasons to Visit Palermo, Sicily

1. Palermo has yet to be discovered by mass tourism This means that if you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience, you will find it in Palermo . The people are unfiltered, the street food is greasy, the buildings are dilapidated (but so charming) and the traffic is crazy. Palermo is the beating heart of Italy and if you’ve previously visited cities such as Rome or Florence, Palermo will stop you in your tracks with its rawness.

2. Palermo is a foodie paradise The street food in Palermo has been named the best in Europe, a title that it truly deserves. I won’t spoil the surprise for now (there will be a whole section about Palermo food later!), but just know that if you’re looking for a gastronomical experience then Palermo is the place to be.

3. Palermo is friendly Locals in Palermo are incredibly friendly. My friend and I joked that we couldn’t go on one night out without making at least several new Facebook friends and being invited to somebody’s family home for dinner, and every night for almost two weeks, this is exactly what happened! Palermo locals may be a little rough around the edges, but they will go above and beyond to make you feel welcome in their city, and they will ensure that you get looked after during your time in Sicily.

4. There are tonnes of great things to do in Palermo, as well as lots of awesome day trips! Think that there aren’t a lot of things to do in Palermo? Think again! Whether you want to explore centuries old catacombs, marvel at UNESCO churches, buy fresh fish at one of Palermo’s traditional markets or simply watch the world go by while eating cannolo, Palermo has it covered.

As far as day trips from Palermo go, you are just a stone’s throw away from the white sands of Mondello, or you can go further afield to the seaside towns of Trapani , Cefalu and San Vito Lo Capo . Perhaps you want to jump on a boat to head to the paradise island of Favignana , or visit the medieval hilltop village of Erice ? Whatever you fancy, it’s never very far from Palermo.

21 Things to Do in Palermo

Things to do in palermo…for sightseers, 1. visit the capuchin monastery and catacombs.

One of the strangest things to do in Palermo to pay a visit the Capuchin Monastery and Catacombs. Back in the 16th century, the monastery outgrew its original cemetery and so the monks began to excavate the crypts below it to create a space to keep mummified corpses. Originally, the crypts were reserved for friars, but eventually it became sort of a status symbol to be entombed in the catacombs, and people would write in their wills which clothes they wanted to be dressed in, or how frequently they wanted their clothes changed (often to reflect the fashions of the time!).

Relatives would pay for the corpses to be kept in the spot which they had been allocated, but if the payments stopped then the body was taken away and put on a shelf until payments resumed. Today, the Capuchin Monastery and Catacombs are open to the public and contain about 8000 corpses and 1252 mummies that line the walls. One of those is Rosalia Lombardo, who tragically died of pneumonia when she was just aged 2 in 1920 – her body is so well-preserved that she looks as though she is still sleeping and will open her eyes at any moment.

Some of the other mummies have been so well preserved that they still have hair and fingernails, which is a very unnerving thing to see! The catacombs are open every day including holidays (apart from Sunday afternoons in from late October to late March) from 9.00 – 13.00 and then again from 15.00 to 18.00. Admission is €3. Officially photography inside the catacombs is not allowed but there have been many documentaries and photographs taken inside the catacombs, and outside you can even buy fridge magnets with photographs of the mummies on them, so whether the Capuchin Monastery restricts photography in order to preserve the mummies, or whether it just wants tourists to have to pay to buy the professional photographs from their gift shop is unclear. If you prefer to take part in private guided tours when you travel then you can always combine a trip to the catacombs with a visit to Monreale.

2. Teatro Massimo

Teatro Massimo is the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest opera theatre in the whole of Europe, so it’s definitely one to add to your list if you’re sightseeing in Palermo! Not only were some scenes from The Godfather III filmed inside Teatro Massimo, but Pavarotti himself has even performed here! Unfortunately, the only way that you can see inside Teatro Massimo if you aren’t going to see a show is to book a guided tour – you cannot simply pay an entrance fee and wander around alone. English language tours begin every 50 minutes (or thereabouts), between 9.30 and 18.00. Tickets cost €8 and the tours last for around 30 minutes.

3. Pretoria Fountain

Palermo’s Pretoria Fountain used to be known as the Piazza della Vergogna or ‘Square of Shame’ due in part to the naked statues that surround the magnificent fountain, but also because the statues were seen to represent the corrupt municipality of the Palermo. However, what the figures actually represent are the 12 Olympians, as well as other mythological figures and animals. Whatever it represents, Pretoria Fountain is one of the most impressive things to see in Palermo (and the sight of many a wedding and Instagram photoshoot!).

4. Marvel at Quattro Canti

Quattro Canti is the most famous intersection in Palermo, and chances are you will stumble upon it by mistake when wandering around the capital of Sicily. Each of the four sections represent one of the four seasons, one of the four Spanish Kings of Sicily, and one of the patronesses of Palermo.

5. Amble Down Via Maqueda

Via Maqueda is a fully pedestrianised street and one of the most important streets in Palermo. From fancy restaurants to boutique stores, coffee shops, smoothie joints and more, Via Maqueda is a lovely street to walk down. Buy some gelato or granita and meander slowly down the street, taking in the souvenir stalls and the atmosphere.

6. Palermo Cathedral

Palermo Cathedral is comprised of a mix of architectural styles due to a long history of additions and alterations. Palermo Cathedral is free to enter but the outside of it is actually far more impressive than the interior and it is one of those buildings that will make you stop in your tracks when you see it.

7. Join an Anti-Mafia Tour

If you want to learn more about the history of the Mafia in Sicily, you should take a trip to Corleone with a guide . Here you will learn everything there is to know about this infamous Sicilian village and the Mafia bosses that came from there.

8. San Giovanni degli Eremiti

San Giovanni degli Eremiti is a Benedictine monastery-turned mosque-turned church in the centre of Palermo that was once inhabited by a wolf-taming hermit. Yes, you read that right. A wolf-taming hermit. The hermit monk, Saint William of Montervergine, decided to tame and keep a wolf after it had killed one of his donkeys – umm, yeah. Anyway, the building itself reflects the various architectural styles, and it is possible to enter but there is a fee of €6. It is closed on Sundays.

9. The Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio

Also known as La Martorana, the Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio sits on Piazza Bellini (lots of the streets and piazzas in Palermo are named after food and drink – it’s very cute). The most impressive thing about the interior of the church is its gold mosaic decorations, made by Byzantine artists around 1151. Entrance is €2.

10. Cappella Palatina Chapel

Another top tourist attraction in Palermo is the majestic Cappella Palatina Chapel, with its gold mosaics, marble floors and painted wooden ceiling. This chapel is also on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, and is part of the architectural complex of the Norman Palace.

Things to Do in Palermo…for Foodies

11. eat all of the food.

I mentioned earlier that Palermo street food is the best in Europe and I wasn’t lying – however, some of Palermo’s more unusual dishes may not be for everyone. Something that Palermo is famous for is offal. That’s right – waste products or the innards of an animal. Perhaps the most famous example of this is the pane ca’ meusa , which is a sandwich comprised of spleen, lung and trachea – oh, and cheese! The pane ca’ meusa may sound unappealing, but trust me when I say that it is delicious. Full of flavour and dripping with grease, the pane ca’ meusa is the perfect hangover food! My favourite place to get pane ca’ meusa is ‘Nni Franco U’Vastiddaru. The service is slow but the food is GOOD.

If you like the sound of the pane ca’ meusa then it may also interest you to know that Palermo street food also includes sheep’s intestines wrapped around spring onion and grilled on a BBQ and fr ittula, which is waste product from calves (ground bone, scrap meat and cartilage) mixed with lard and ladled onto sandwiches . If the innards of a baby cow don’t appeal to you then you’ll be relieved to know that there is a lot more to Palermo cuisine than offal! From arancine (fried rice balls with various fillings) to chick pea fritters, potato croquettes and sweet treats like the legendary Sicilian cannoli (tubes filled with sweet ricotta and sprinkled with pistachio) and ice cream for breakfast, the food in Palermo will keep you coming back for more. I sampled all of these and more on my Palermo street food tour with Streaty (which you can read about here ).

I highly recommend doing a Streaty tour in Palermo because not only will you get to sample all of the best authentic Sicilian food , but you will learn SO much about Palermo as a whole that you wouldn’t find out anywhere else. Restaurants in Palermo are all very reasonably priced, but if you want the true Palermo experience then you will eat like the locals do – on the street.

On almost every corner (and in the markets), you will find street food vendors grilling their specialities, and if you want an authentic Sicilian experience then this is where you should head. If you’re not sure which street food you want to try, head down to La Vucciria market in the evening – you’ll find everything imaginable all concentrated in one piazza.

12. Explore Palermo’s Historic Street Markets

Ballarò market.

Ballarò market is the largest and oldest Palermo market of all. Ballarò is unhygienic, stinky and loud, and if you visit here in the morning, you will find people of every nationality imaginable pushing their way through the crowds to get the best produce from the vendors who are all seeing who can yell the loudest to attract passers-by to their stall. Ballarò market is the most authentic and entertaining of all Palermo’s street markets, but be sure to keep an eye (and hand!) on your valuables as Ballarò is known for pickpockets.

La Vucciria

While Vucciria isn’t the market it once was in terms of an early morning spot to buy every ingredient imaginable for making perfect Sicilian cuisine, now La Vucciria is the place to be once the sun goes down in Palermo. As soon as darkness hits, this dilapidated square comes to life, with street food vendors setting up shop, bars throwing open their doors, trattorias serving steaming bowls of spaghetti to hungry partiers and all of Palermo’s weird and wonderful people congregating together.

The history of the Capo market is an interesting one. Capo dates back to the times when Arabs ruled Palermo, and was the place where pirates and slave merchants would congregate. Today however, Capo has left the past in the past and is a favoured spot for bargain hunters. Here you can find cheap local produce, and all of the chaos that you should have come to expect from Palermo. You can read my in-depth guide to Palermo’s street markets here.

13. Take part in a street food tour

If you don’t know where to start when it comes to sourcing out some of Palermo’s best cuisine, then I highly recommend going on a street food tour. Not only will your tour guide take you to all of the best vendors, ensuring that you get great products, but you will also learn a tonne of the fun facts and information that you wouldn’t ever get if you decided to explore on your own. A great street food tour can be found here!

14. Enjoy an Aperitivo

One of my absolute favourite things to do in Palermo is to unwind with a glass of wine and a platter of yummy goodness. Aperitivo is one of the best things about Italy, and in Palermo you can either go to one of the many bars which have a buffet-style aperitivo, where you pay €5-6 for a drink and can help yourself to any of the food from the buffet that is laid out, or you can go to a fancier bar and pay €10-12 for a drink and be served with a beautiful platter full of Sicilian delights. My favourite buffet aperitivi can be found in Zammu Drink and More and Come Nelle Favole Taverna , and my favourite high-end aperitivi can be found at Vespa Cafe, Palermo Store and Il Siciliano.

Things to Do in Palermo…for Day Trippers

Palermo is a fantastic place to base yourself for day trips. Whether it’s white sand beaches, stunning mountains or charming villages, Palermo is just a stone’s throw away from some must-visit places in Sicily, and if you have time then you should definitely check some of them out! Please note that this list is by no means an exhaustive list of Palermo day trips. These are just the most famous and the ones that are most interesting for tourists.

15. Mondello Beach

The easiest day trip from Palermo and one of the most popular things to do in Palermo in the summer is to visit Mondello beach. Mondello is just a 15 minute car ride (or 40 minute bus ride) away from Palermo and is where all of the young Palermitani head to in the summer months to relax on the beach or rent a boat for the day. Although Mondello beach gets super busy during high season and most of the beach is private (meaning that you have to pay in order to access the beach and use the sun loungers), it’s the closest beach to Palermo and the easiest to access. However, if you are lucky enough to visit Palermo in shoulder season, all of the sun loungers are cleared, giving way to a huge stretch of white sand that truly is bliss.

16. San Vito Lo Capo

San Vito Lo Capo is a bit further away (a 2 hour bus ride from Palermo), but it is a lovely seaside town with stunning white sands and an abundance of cafes selling the regional speciality of couscous, as well as tonnes of gelaterias and small bars. I actually spent a few days in San Vito Lo Capo, but if you’re short on time then it’s definitely doable as a day trip from Palermo. If you do decide to spend the night in San Vito Lo Capo then I highly recommend Timbuktu Hostel . It has a 9.9 rating on Hostelworld and is one of the nicest hostels I’ve stayed in.

Just over an hour away from Palermo (70km) is the stunning coastal town of Cefalù , which boasts both a stunning sandy beach and an old town that could have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Cefalù is one of the most charming places I’ve visited, and if you only take one day trip from Palermo then let it be to Cefalù.

18. Monte Pellegrino

Monte Pellegrino towers over the city of Palermo and is one of the most popular day trips from Palermo. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic in the stunning nature reserve or pay homage to Santa Rosalia in her sanctuary atop the mountain, Monte Pellegrino is one of Sicily’s true gems. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth going to the top of the mountain just to see the jaw dropping panoramic views over the city of Palermo.

19. Corleone

Corleone is the home of the Corleonesi, one of Italy’s most infamous Mafia gangs. Located just one hour south of Palermo, it is a surprising favourite among tourists, and locals have set up the Mafia and Anti-Mafia Museum of Corleone, a place that preserves history while helping locals move on from the criminal past of the town. Something that I recommend is taking part on an organised Corleone excursion . That way you’ll learn so much more than you would if you did it on your own, plus you don’t have to worry about figuring out Sicily’s terrible public transport system!

20. Agrigento

Agrigento is one of the best places to visit to see the ruins of the Ancient Greek civilisations that one ruled Sicily. The Valley of the Temples is one of the largest archaeological sites in the whole of Italy and if you’re an ancient history buff then this is the place for you!

21. Zingaro Nature Reserve

The Zingaro Nature Reserve, or Riserva Naturale della Zingaro is en route to San Vito Lo Capo and is home to countless unspoilt beaches, hiking trails, caves and tunnels and is a favourite for nature and adventure lovers alike! To find out more about the Zingaro Nature Reserve and plan your trip properly, please see their website.

Things You Should Know Before You Visit Palermo

• The currency in Palermo is the EURO. Not everywhere accepts card payments so it is useful to carry cash with you.
• Palermo is a safe city. You can read more about safety in Sicily here.
• Even if you speak Italian, you may find it difficult to make yourself understood in Palermo. Sicilians have their very own language (complete with a kind of sign language!) that is totally different from the Italian that you may know. A guy I met from Milan could not make himself understood in Palermo!
• Sicilians have heard all of the mafia jokes before and they don’t find them amusing. For people in Sicily, organised crime has been a dangerous and unpleasant reality for a long time and they don’t need dumb tourists like us joking about it. In case you were genuinely curious, organised crime doesn’t pose an issue for tourists at all in Palermo and the city is not the dangerous place it once was.
• Be careful driving if you choose to rent a car in Palermo. Sicilians are crazy drivers and I feared for my life many times while being driven around by locals in Palermo! Even if you’re an experienced driver, be cautious when renting a car in the Sicilian capital – if you do plan to rent a car, you can find one for as little as 3 EUR per day on Discover Cars .
• Some of the cobblestones on the streets are uneven and most of them are very slippery! I found walking in flip-flops almost impossible in Palermo so I suggest opting for pumps or sandals that have some grip.
• If taking the bus, buy your ticket beforehand. Tickets are purchased from tobacco shops. If that sounds weird, it’s because it is.
• Relax! Maybe your tour will begin late, or a restaurant won’t be open at the correct time, or you won’t be given enough change (or you’ll be given too much if that requires less effort for the cashier!). Sicilians are super laid back, and if you expect everything to be organised and on time then you won’t enjoy Palermo very much!
• It is perfectly acceptable to have ice-cream for breakfast! Especially popular in Palermo is dipping a brioche into coffee flavoured granita (shaved ice popular in Sicily).
• Most restaurants only open for dinner between 7:30 and 8:00pm so make sure to factor that in to your dinner plans.
• If you think people are arguing, don’t worry. That’s just how Sicilians talk to each other. And if they are arguing? They’ll be hugging before you know it.

Getting to Palermo

Palermo is just a 3 hour flight from London or Manchester, and there are many direct flights from the UK, as well as daily flights to Palermo from Paris and Brussels. It is also very easy to fly to Palermo from pretty much anywhere on mainland Italy (alternatively, you can fly from mainland Italy to Trapani airport). If you’re coming from mainland Italy, you can reach Palermo by bus. You can get to Palermo from many places in Italy such as Bari , Rome or Naples. My go-to bus travel in Europe is always FlixBus . Flixbus is the most extensive bus network worldwide and all Flix buses have Wi-Fi, extra legroom, charging ports and the ability to modify your booking just 15 minutes before departure!

Palermo is also easily accessible from other cities in Sicily. It is just 1 hour by train from Cefalu, a 2 hour bus ride from San Vito Lo Capo, or around 4 hours by bus or train from Catania . The coach station in Palermo is just behind the main train station, and both can be found in the Old Town district of Palermo.

Where to stay in Palermo – Hostels and hotels in Palermo

Hostels in palermo.

The hostel scene in Palermo is still in its infancy, and so there is not a whole lotta choice when it comes to finding a decent hostel in Palermo. I personally have stayed in two (one of which is no longer in business), and I haven’t heard anything about the other hostels in Palermo (good or bad), so here I am just including the one that I stayed in twice, Balarm Hostel . Now look – Balarm Hostel is not the BEST HOSTEL EVER that you will write home about. With that said, I believe that Balarm Hostel is still the best hostel in Palermo.

The beds are comfy and the security system is really good (with electric combination lockers and key cards for all the rooms, as well as having to use a code or buzzer to get into the building itself). In addition to that, the location is perfect – Balarm Hostel is just a few steps away from the train station and it is on the main street in Palermo, just a few steps from bars, restaurants and markets. It’s also a pretty sociable hostel, and you can drink your own beers there or buy some from the hostel itself. There is also a free breakfast which was nice.

Hotels in Palermo

Budget hotel in palermo.

Hotel Concordia   is in a 19th century building and rooms have wrought iron beds, exposed brick and traditional tiled floors. It is just a 5 minute walk from the train station and close to all of Palermo’s main sights, including Quattro Candi, Palermo Cathedral and La Vucciria market.

Mid-range hotel in Palermo

Located in the heart of Palermo, 60m from Via Maqueda shopping street,  Eurostars Centrale Palace Hotel  is a 4 star hotel that was once the noble 18th-century Palazzo Tarallo, and when you see the interior, you’ll certainly feel like you’re in a palace. With ornate ceilings, stunning tiled floors and chandeliers, you will certainly get the Italian experience here. There’s also a gym and sauna, and the location is perfect, just steps away from the main pedestrian street in town and all the major attractions. At the time of writing, a double room here was just 68 EUR, which is a steal.

Luxury hotel in Palermo

The  Grande Hotel Et Des Palmes   is an absolutely beautiful 5 star hotel in an Art Nouveau building. Palermo Port is a 10 minute walk away and Teatro Massimo is just 5 minutes away. You are slightly further away from the cathedral (1.6km) than the other options, but you are still incredibly central. The word ‘grand’ really doesn’t do this place justice – tradition and luxury are an indulgent combination, and there is also an onsite cocktail bar and high end restaurant.

Best Time to Visit Palermo

The best time to visit Palermo is the shoulder season. This is when the weather is still great, but the beaches are not as crowded as they are in the summer months. With that said, if you’re not too bothered about going to the beach, Palermo in the summer is a lot of fun.

The heat in the centre never feels too oppressive due to the way the Arabs built the city long ago, and while many Italians come to visit Palermo in the summer, you won’t be fighting your way through hordes of Brits and Americans (see my article about the problems related to overtourism here ). In addition to that, the council makes a real effort to clean the streets up in time for summer so the city is cleaner than at other times of the year. Palermo is also somewhere that you can visit during the cooler months. Even in January, Palermo is still around 15 degrees Celsius, so if you’re looking for some winter sun then Palermo is a great bet.

Budgeting for Palermo

Palermo is the most affordable Italian city that I’ve been to. Here are some average prices for Palermo: Hostel beds (in high season and with breakfast) are around €17 ; Restaurant meals are usually less than €10 (with some pasta and risotto dishes being just €5); Street food is €2-3; A large (0.66cl) beer at any of the bars on La Vucciria (party street) is €2; A small beer, glass of wine or shot on La Vucciria is €1; A one way bus ticket is €1.40 or a full day pass is €3.50 So there concludes my monster list of things to do in Palermo! I hope that this information helped you in planning your trip to Palermo, and if I missed anything then please let me know in the comments section below! If you enjoyed this article then please pin it using the buttons below so that other people can find it – thanks! xoxo

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16 thoughts on “21 Best Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily | Palermo Travel Blog”

Amazing post. Thanks for sharing your tips and photos. We haven’t been in the Northwest part of Sicily in Palermo or San Vito Lo Capo but for sure next time we will visit these beautiful places of Sicily. We’ve been only in the Southeast Sicily and we’ve brought a lot of great memories to our blog. Maybe you will find some inspirations there? Keep calm and wayamaya https://www.wayamaya.com/search/label/Sicily

I’ll keep it bookmarked for sure as I’m heading back to Sicily soon and I plan to do a lot more exploring while I’m there 🙂

Have you been to Alia, Palermo, Sicily? My great grandparents came over to America in the late 1800’s. I can’t find much out on this town, but would owe love to walk the steps of my ancestors someday.

No I haven’t! Sorry 🙁 I do plan on moving to Palermo as soon as travel is possible again and so I will definitely put Alia on my list – I want to explore as much of Sicily as I can!

This was super helpful, thank you! I booked a spontaneous trip to Palermo and didn’t know anything about it so this was a great read. I’m a little nervous about not knowing Italian or Sicilian, but hopefully I can get by somehow 😅

Our little group of OAPs loved Palermo it has a great vibe. Your recommendations were very helpful and spot on. It is an amazing city with the friendliest people ever! They love to practice their English which was very good xx

This was super helpful, thank you! I’m going to Palermo next month and will be living there for 4 weeks. It was a spontaneous decision, and I didn’t know anything about Sicily. Wish me luck with the language barrier! 😅

Haha, good luck! I’m sure you’ll be absolutely fine!

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A complete guide to Palermo, Sicily

Updated On 8th March, 2024

Palermo, the capital of Sicily and the 5th biggest city in Italy, is well worth exploring for a weekend. If that’s your plan, this is the Italy travel guide for you! It’s a bit more chaotic and ‘rough and ready’ than  Rome  is, but that doesn’t make it any less worth visiting.

Boasting over 100 churches and 12 UNESCO sites (across the Palermo province), it’s easy to see why Palermo was awarded the ‘Capital of Culture’ award in 2018. There are so many things to do and see in Palermo, including watching a show at the third largest opera theatre in Europe and try street food such as arancine, panelle and cannoli and the four oldest street markets in Italy. This guide is going to give you all my top tips for your Sicilian adventure and tell you all the best things to do in the city of Palermo.

A complete guide to visiting Palermo, Sicily…

How do you get to Palermo?

The easiest way to get there is by plane. Palermo Falcone Borcellino Airport (PMO) is the biggest in Sicily. Alternatively, fly into Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) on the other side of the island, and get the train across.  Check train routes to Palermo here.

From the airport, there are a few ways you can get to Palermo city centre:

• Shuttle bus from €6.00 (if you book online in advance) (45-55 minutes).  Book your airport shuttle here.  
• Train: The Trinacria Express runs between the airport and Stazione Centrale every hour.  Check train routes to Palermo city centre here.
• If you’d prefer to get a taxi from the airport, with the meter on, it should be around €35.

If you’re on mainland Italy already, there are several boat routes across to Sicily.  Check ferry routes to Palermo here.

Top tip: Check out the flight deals on  Skyscanner here.

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

Where’s the best place to stay in Palermo?

Palermo is a completely walkable city, so it doesn’t make a huge difference where you stay. I’ve always stayed in the centre, near the Quattro Canti or Teatro Massimo, and AirBnb prices have always been reasonable, even with the fantastic location! Vucciria is one of the big bar areas, so consider how close or far you want to stay from the hustle and bustle when looking at accommodation.

I’ve not stayed in a hostel in Palermo, but I’ve heard good things about  Balarm  hostel and  A casa di amici  hostel.

Top tip: Get  £25 off your first AirBnb stay here.

Check out hotel and hostel options on  booking.com here.

What’s the best way to get around Palermo?

Palermo is a completely walkable city if you love exploring on foot! It’s also a great place to rent a bike and cycle around.

There’s also the public transport: the AMAT bus and tram network. You can pick up 90-minute tickets for €1.40 at AMAT kiosks and  tabaccherie  (tobacconists), or you can buy tickets on the bus, valid only for that bus ride, for €1.80. Don’t forget to validate your ticket on the bus/tram, or you could get a fine!

Exploring a city on foot or by bike is a great way to keep fit when travelling. Here are more ways to  keep fit when you’re travelling!

If you want to save some money, see all my  top tips for travelling on a budget in this blog post.

The best places to eat in Palermo…

• NonnAngé

Great for a instagrammable, relatively healthy brunch or lunch. The cakes looked really good too!

If the pizza, pasta and fried food has all got a bit much, try a freshly squeezed juice or salad from SpremiAmO.

A tea house in the city centre (perfect if you need a dose of matcha!) that also offers an extensive brunch, lunch and dinner menu.

With a wonderfully Palermitan take on tapas, this is one of my favourite restaurants in Palermo. The food is amazing, as are the cocktails!  See the menu and book your table here.

This is where I ate the best arancina of my life, no joke. They have a huge variety of flavours on offer, including seasonal ones!

• Bar Touring

I haven’t had the arancina here (yet), but it’s supposed to be  really  good. Try the classic ragù filling in the arancina bomba, the biggest arancina in the area!

• Panificio Pollicino

This is the place to go if you want to try a traditional, Sicilian pizza.

• Osteria Nonna Dora

Book this one in advance (call the number on  the website ) as it gets busy. I had the most incredible prawn and pesto pasta here. It was perfectly cooked with delicately balanced flavours, and it was also the biggest portion of pasta I’ve ever had in my life! I’ll definitely be coming back on my next trip to Palermo.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this community kitchen offers a variety of international food, representing the melting pot of culture that is Palermo. My personal favourite on the menu is the Afghani curry. Moltivolti also offers a co-working space if you need to hit the laptop for a couple of hours!

• Seven restaurant rooftop garden at Hotel Ambasciatori

We had cocktails on the rooftop terrace here. Not the cheapest place in Palermo, but the views were amazing! We just missed sunset, but I bet it’s beautiful. We only had drinks, but the menu looked incredible!  See the menu and book your table here. 

Places to drink in Palermo…

As well as Locale and Seven for cocktails (see above), the best areas for nightlife in Palermo are Vucciria, Piazza Sant’Anna, Champagneria and Piazza Rivoluzione. I haven’t been out that much in Palermo, but bars that I’ve heard good things about include:

• Cavù
• Luppolo l’Ottavo Nano (craft beer)

See my  21 cheap places to visit in Europe here

See my  22 top tips for travelling in Europe here.

The best things to do in Palermo…

1. marvel at i quattro canti.

The ‘four corners’ are a central point in Palermo, making a crossroads between two of the city’s busiest streets, Via Maqueda & Via Vittorio Emanuele. More officially known as Piazza Vigliena, the baroque structures were built in 1608, featuring four kings, four seasons, four fountains, four palaces, four saints, the meeting point of four neighbourhoods, and more.

2. Visit the famous Cattedrale di Palermo.

One of eight buildings in Palermo on the UNESCO world heritage list, this building is beautiful inside and out. The main part of the church is free to visit, but if you want to go down into the crypt or up onto the roof, you need to pay. It’s €8 for a ticket that includes the tombs, treasury, crypts and terraces, but you can also get cheaper tickets to see each thing individually if you don’t want to see them all.

3. Take a local cooking lesson.

I love visiting places and taking cooking lessons to spend some time with locals and taste some of the local cuisine! From pasta to pizza to Sicilian desserts, take your pick and ready, steady cook!  Check out cooking classes on AirBnb experiences here.

4. Watch a show at the largest opera house in Italy, Teatro Massimo.

You can also take a tour around the theatre.  For show tickets and information about the tour, check out the website here.

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

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

5. Try tandem paragliding at one of the surrounding beaches.

You can get the adrenaline thrill of a lifetime at several points just outside the city centre.  For fly points and prices, check out the ‘ Parapendio in tandem’ website here.

6. Try a local aperitivo.

Relax with a beer, glass of wine, or spritz, and enjoy some snacks as the sun goes down.

7. Be amazed at all the Arab-Norman-Byzantine style architecture, including the Normal Palace, the Palatine Chapel and San Giovanni degli Eremiti.

More palaces to look at in Sicily include Gangi, Chiaramonte, Mirto and Zisa.

8. Visit the ‘fountain of shame’, Fontana Pretoria.

Thought to be shameful because of the naked statues surrounding it, these stunning statues represent Greek and Roman mythology and add wonder to this beautiful fountain. Get there early if you want a photo without tourists!

9. View the largest collection of mummies in the world at the Capuchin Abbey & catacombs.

The living meet the dead at this macabre attraction.   Get more information on the website here.

10. Try the street food at the markets.

There are four famous street markets in Palermo: Capo, Ballaro, Vucciria and Borgo Vecchio. They’re all famous for the street food, but you can find an array of things here! Things to try include:

• arancina (fried stuffed rice balls)
• panelle (chickpea fritters – either in a sandwich, with croccè (potato croquettes), or alone!)
• stigghiola (lamb intestine)
• sfincione (somewhere between a pizza and topped bread)
• cuoppo fritto misto (fried mixed fish in a cone)
• pani ca meusa (bread with spleen!)
• frittula (best tried before you ask too many questions – meat and various other organs/insides fried together!)

11. Save room for dessert!

After you’ve filled up on street food, make sure you have room for some Sicilian desserts! Famous desserts in Palermo include:

• cannoli (see below – a fried pastry tube filled with a creamy, ricotta mix. You can also get chocolate, hazelnut and pistachio flavoured ones!)
• granita (kind of like a slush puppy, but a million times better as it’s made with fresh fruit!)
• gelato or sorbetto (get a brioche con gelato for an ice cream sandwich if you have room!)
• cassata (sponge soaked in liqueur, layered with ricotta and jam, decorated with marzipan and candied fruit)
• biscotti di mandorla (soft almond biscuits)
• frutta di martorana (marzipan shaped like fruit and vegetables)

Top tip: If you can, do a street food/culinary walking tour! Not only will you get to see the city, but you’ll have a happy tummy too!  Check out street food tours on AirBnb experiences here.

12. Take in the art on the gold mosaics in La Martorana, church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio.

The mosaics are best seen in the morning, when the sun shines on them. I’ve heard you can buy handmade frutta di martorana in the foyer, too!

13. Watch a traditional puppet show at the Cuticchio theatre.

Puppet theatre is a huge Sicilian tradition.  Check the schedule at the pupper theatre here.

14. Hike Monte Pellegrino.

Take in the nature reserve as you ascend this hill just outside of Palermo, and then marvel at the views across the island once you get to the top. There are also Santa Rosalia Chapel and Castello Utveggio to look at while you’re there, as you catch your breath before you come back down!

See my  beginner’s guide to hiking here.

15. Take in some of the green space in the heart of Palermo.

The  botanical gardens  are both a safe haven for those of you trying to escape city life for a couple of hours, and a research facility for the university. Top tip: Next door to the botanical gardens is Villa Giulia, and you can enjoy part of the gardens for free if you go round the back!

Within the city there is also Foro Italico, a grassy area on the seafront, and Giardino Garibaldi, a city part with eye-catching exotic trees.

16. Kick back and relax on Mondello Beach.

One of Sicily’s best beaches lies just outside Palermo (30 minutes on the 806 bus). You’ll need a break after exploring the city!

17. Enjoy a night out!

Palermo has a great nightlife, so whether you want to enjoy the crowded Vucciria market or enjoy a drink in other areas popular with locals such as Piazza Sant’Anna, Champagneria or Piazza Rivoluzione. Palermo is no Ibiza, but it offers a rough and ready nightlife that everyone can appreciate!

18. Take a day trip to Monreale.

There’s an old Sicilian proverb that is translated something like this, ‘Whoever visits Palermo without visiting Monreale arrives a donkey and leaves an ass. This commune within the metropolitan area of Palermo is home to a UNESCO world heritage cathedral, as well as stunning views of Palermo and the Aeolian islands. The backstreets are full of little shops that sell the most beautiful jewellery and souvenirs. There are regular buses from the city centre to Monreale, so make sure you visit.

See all the  best things to do in Sicily here.

See my complete  guide to exploring Rome here.

EXPLORE ITALY ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been to Palermo?

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

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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13 of the most beautiful villages and towns in Sicily

I f you found yourself dreaming of a trip to Sicily this year, you are not alone. The island's popularity soared this year thanks to its appearance on the popular HBO series, "The White Lotus," as did one of its most luxurious staging posts, San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel, where the show was filmed.

Part of a larger trend toward "set-jetting" — the phenomenon whereby movies and TV shows inspire travel itineraries — Sicily has dominated social media and Google searches this year. Hoppe r reported that Palermo was one of the top trending destinations for airfare searches this summer, with a 90% spike in interest.

While many travelers flocked to Sicily this year to indulge their White Lotus fantasies — facilitated by new luxe resorts like Rocco Forte's Ville Igiea in Palermo and, of course, the aforementioned San Domenico Palace in Taormina — Sicily's distinctive culture and traditions far and away transcend its moment in the media spotlight.

The largest island in the Mediterranean has long been something of a hidden gem, drawing European jet-setters in the know. It's home to gorgeous, UNESCO-inscribed villages, dazzling beaches, a wine and cuisine scene that easily rivals Italy's mainland, and even its Mount Etna volcano. Sicily is one of the best places in Europe to hire a car and explore without any prescribed agenda.

From the baroque towns of Val di Noto to villages with medieval castles and quaint beachfront fishing communities, Sicily's sheer diversity of cultural and natural treasures enthralls travelers who want to experience the more authentic side of one of Europe's hottest destinations.

Scicli is dramatically sited in a valley sandwiched between rocky cliffs. It's situated in the southeast area of the island, and it's one of the seven famed Val di Noto baroque towns.

Like many towns in the Val di Noto, it was heavily damaged by the 1693 earthquake and rebuilt in baroque style. It's affectionately known as the setting for the hit Italian television series, "Commissario Montalbano."

Plan to explore the city on foot, starting on Via Francisco Mormino Penna, a street with several baroque palaces and churches all constructed in local white stone. Don't miss the emblematic baroque Palazzo Beneventano, an ornate 18th-century palace (the original building dates to the Middle Ages) with a courtyard hailed as the most beautiful in Sicily.

Draped over Mount Marone and dramatically framed by Mount Etna, Gangi is often called the most beautiful village in Italy. Crowned by the 14th-century Ventimiglia castle, the town's charm lies in its authentic Sicilian ambience and evocative medieval alleyways photogenically lined with two- and three-story stone houses.

In the San Nicolo Church, you can visit the rather macabre "tomb of dead priests" (or fossa de parrini), where a crypt contains niches with about 100 mummified priests thought to have lived in Gangi from around 1720-1850.

One of Sicily's most well-known beach towns , Cefalu has more than just golden sands and azure waters.

Visit the 12th-century cathedral, complete with Renaissance sculptures and Byzantine mosaics. If you have some energy to spare, hike the massive Rocca mountain that towers above the town until you reach the old castle remains. If it looks vaguely familiar, this former fishing village was the setting for the Oscar-winning movie "Cinema Paradiso."

This stunning island, once inhabited by Greeks, is filled with ancient monuments and historic churches. Its picturesque squares are lined with elaborate palazzi, and its labyrinthine streets are dotted with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.

Connected to Sicily's mainland by two bridges, it's best to park your car in Siracusa and walk over to Ortigia's old town. Don't miss the Piazza del Duomo, with its showstopping Duomo, the oldest church in Europe.

Another highlight is the town's lively food markets (pick up some pistachios — Sicily has thousands of acres of pistachio trees). Fresh swordfish is a local delicacy that you'll find on chalkboard menus in many restaurants.

Erice's claim to fame is its Venere Castle, which sits atop the fabled mountain peak of Ertz and boasts expansive views of the Sicilian countryside and the sea.

Within the town's 12th-century walls, you'll find an array of churches — its moniker is the "city of 100 churches." The most famous is the imposing Norman Erice cathedral, built with stones from Rome's Temple of Venus; it's distinctive for its freestanding bell tower and intricately carved vaulted ceiling. The church dates to 1314 but was rebuilt in its current Gothic style in 1865.

You'll find the town's greatest joys wandering its streets, which feature antique stores, craft shops, restaurants, cafes and bakeries (almond pastries are renowned here).

The second of what will be a few of the iconic UNESCO-designed Val di Noto baroque villages on this list, Modica's never-ending rooftops rise along the surrounding hills. Before the earthquake of 1693, the medieval old town was carved into the rock face. Now built on top of the ridge, it's an evocative maze of stunning baroque facades, extravagant churches and beautiful palaces connected by stairways.

Make sure to see the San Giorgio cathedral, and for an afternoon snack, sample some chocolate . The ancient recipe uses special grinding methods at frigid temperatures sans cocoa butter for a grainy and bold taste.

North of Taormina in the province of Messina, Savoca is set between Sicily's aqua waters and the Peloritani mountain range. It's surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.

Another cinematic backdrop, iconic scenes from Francis Ford Coppola's movie "The Godfather" were shot there — most memorably, the wedding of Michael Corleone and Apollonia at church of San Nicolo. Fans of the film should also stop into Bar Vitelli (another famous filming location) for a glass of local wine.

Ragusa Ibla

Nestled among craggy peaks, Ragusa's old town (Ragusa Ibla) is one of the most spectacular spots to view from a distance.

The striking town sits upon a hilltop, complete with blue-domed churches and pink and yellowed crumbling baroque buildings. With its charming tangle of streets and elegant squares lined with gray stone houses and palaces, Ragusa is one of the best places on the island to just relax and watch Sicilian life unfold.

The town is divided into two distinct parts: Ragusa Superiore is the town's more modern enclave with a more prosaic vibe, while Ragusa Ibla is the town's beautifully preserved historic center that unfurls down the hillside. Don't miss sites include the church of San Giorgio and the San Giovanni Cathedral.

Built right into the stone of the surrounding mountains, Sperlinga sounds suspiciously like the word spelunking — caving. As you might guess, there are numerous caves carved into the stone throughout the village, and you can explore them all. Find the best views can by hiking up to the Sperlinga castle, which overlooks the village.

Related: The best way to travel to Europe using points and miles

Novara di Sicilia

Nestled between the two mountain ranges of Nebrodi and Peloritani, Novara di Sicilia has spectacular views from pretty much any angle. Built from local sandstone beneath the remnants of an ancient castle, most of the village dates to the 17th century. The oldest building is the small and unassuming 13th-century Church of St. Francis.

If you're lucky, you'll visit during one of the many food festivals this village has throughout the year, dedicated to local products such as hazelnuts, Maiorchino cheese and bread. If not, you can simply wander the village's magical streets.

The town is steeped in myth — legend has it that Cyclops once lived in Novara di Sicilia.

San Vito Lo Capo

Shoulder season (May-June and September-October) is the best time to visit San Vito Lo Capo, one of Sicily's most beautiful beach villages , to beat the crowds but still have perfect weather. You may not associate couscous as a Sicilian specialty, but the village has an entire festival dedicated to the food each September.

Castiglione di Sicilia

With views of the volcano Mount Etna, this village is similar to many other Sicilian towns in that it has a signature 12th-century castle and many churches. One of the most distinctive is the Santa Domenica chapel, a small stone structure built by Byzantine monks.

This tiny fishing village is famous for its tonnara or tuna fish. It's also a popular beach spot for tourists and locals alike in the summer when the population increases exponentially. People-watching over a spritz in the main plaza, Piazza Regina Margherita, is the activity of choice for a warm, summery evening.

Bottom line

With so much to see and do in a beautiful country like Italy, it can be hard to figure out where to start. But if you end up in Sicily , the best way to explore the island is by car.

Taormina may have stolen the limelight this year thanks to "The White Lotus" effect, but once you get off the beaten path, you'll find stunning villages with timeless cultural traditions at every turn. Make sure to add some of them to your Sicilian vacation itinerary.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.