travel to sicily

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

Things to do

The perfect sicily itinerary: how to spend 5-7 days.

Sicily is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy. The Mediterranean island boasts medieval charm and a fascinating culture with Greek, Roman, and North African influences. If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, you’re in for a fantastic vacation. 

Spending a week in Sicily will give you endless opportunities to explore the island’s best attractions and immerse yourself in the culture, including strolling through some of the best medieval towns in Italy to exploring Roman ruins.

» You may also like these 11 Beach Hotels in Sicily for 2023 .

We’ve been to many places in Sicily and have always enjoyed our time there. The food is incredible, the views are stunning. You just can’t go wrong with a vacation there.

We’ve put together a 5-7 day Sicily itinerary for you that will take you to the stunning beaches, charming villages – we especially loved Taormina – the ancient ruins, and for some wine tasting on Mt. Etna.

Visiting soon? Check out our expertly curated Sicily itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip, from where to visit , the airports that are closest to the places on our list, plus our guide to wine tasting in Sicily , the food you should eat , and the best beach hotels on the island.

Planning your trip to Sicily?

• Book a transfer from the airport to Catania city center with Welcome Pickups.
• Rent a car from the Catania or Palermo airports through Discover Cars .

Where to Stay See all hotel options

• Where to Stay in Palermo: Rocco Forte Villa Igiea – A renovated Art Nouveau palazzo overlooking the gulf or Palermo – luxury 5-star family-run hotel. 
• Where to Stay in Catania: With tastefully decorated rooms and high-end amenities and facilities, the  Liberty Hotel  is one of the best in the city.
• Where to Stay in Taormina: There’s no better place to stay than the  Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , with direct views of Mount Etna.

Best Tours and Experiences in Sicily:

• Godfather vs Mafia Tour & Sicilian Light Lunch – This is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
• Private 6-Hour Tour of Three Etna Wineries – you can’t miss these wineries!
• Streaty – Palermo Street Food Walking Tour – great way to sample a lot of things at once

Table of Contents

How to Get to Sicily

Sicily is a beautiful island located in the southernmost part of Italy , and there are several ways to get there. The most common way to reach Sicily is by plane. The island has several airports , including the Catania-Fontanarossa Airport and the Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport, which receive regular flights from major European cities.

Another option is to take a ferry from mainland Italy. Ferries run from several ports, including Naples , Genoa, and Livorno, and offer a scenic and relaxing way to reach Sicily.

If you prefer to drive, you can cross the Strait of Messina via the A3 motorway, which connects Calabria on the mainland to Messina on the island.

Tips for Traveling to Sicily

When traveling to Sicily, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

• Rent a car (I always book with DiscoverCars.com for the best deal) or hire a driver to explore the island, as public transportation can be unreliable and limited in some areas.
• Be prepared for hot and humid weather in the summer months, and plan accordingly by packing light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying the delicious Sicilian cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, pastries, and pasta dishes.
• Don’t miss out on visiting some of the island’s most famous attractions, such as the ancient Greek temples at Agrigento, the picturesque fishing village of Cefalù, and the stunning beaches of Taormina.

Sicily Itinerary | 5-7 days on the Island

This Sicily 7-day itinerary takes you from the island’s capital, Palermo, in the west on a road trip to Catania in the east.

You can either explore the island from the west to the east coast, like in this itinerary or vice versa. Which way you go usually depends on where you need to fly into. There are quite a few airports on the island, but most people fly into Palermo or Catania.

The Itinerary:

If you have 7 days:

Day 1: Trapani

Day 2-3: palermo, day 4: cefalù, day 5: taormina, day 6: mt etna.

• OR Catania – I waver suggesting two major cities in a 7-day itinerary. My preference would be to choose either Palermo or Catania and skip the other.
• Day 7: Syracuse

If you have 5 days:

• Day 1: Palermo
• Day 2: Cefalù
• Day 3: Taormina
• Day 4: Mt Etna
• Day 5: Syracuse or Catania

Keep in mind that you might need to drive back to your starting point to fly out, if you can’t get a flight into one airport and out of another.

While some travelers will only choose one side of the island to visit, I think you should do both in one trip, unless you foresee coming back to Sicily in the future for another trip. However, if you only have 5 days and you have to fly into Catania, then I would skip the west coast and do Syracuse, Catania, Mt Etna, and Taormina.

If you have more time to spend, like 10-14 days, I wouldn’t choose to go to more places. I would spend more time in each of the places listed below.

Who Is Sicily For?

I personally think anyone would love Sicily. It’s steeped in history, culture, and amazing scenery, but you might be wondering if you’ll find something there for you.

• If you’re a history lover, you’re going to really enjoy the island’s ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the Roman Amphitheater in Syracuse.
• Foodies will love the fresh seafood, arancini, and cannoli. The island is also famous for its wine production, and wine tastings and vineyard tours are a popular activity.
• Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes of Sicily, including Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe , and the picturesque Aeolian Islands, which offer great hiking and swimming opportunities.
• The island’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Italy, with crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Some of the best beaches in Sicily include the stunning Scala dei Turchi, the white-sand beach of San Vito Lo Capo, and the black-sand beach of Giardini Naxos.

On the first day of your Sicily itinerary, explore the stunning coastal city of Trapani. After landing at Palermo Airport, rent a car and drive to your hotel in Trapani. The drive is 55 minutes. If you arrive early, you plunge right in to sightseeing instead.

Options: If you want to spend more time in each place, I would suggest skipping Trapani (as sad as that is!) and heading straight to Palermo.

Where to Stay in Trapani

The  Rooms of Andrea Hotel  in the center of Trapani is a 4-star property with an ideal location for exploring the city; it’s one of the best.

Famous for its crescent-shaped shoreline, white-sand beaches, and Baroque architecture, Trapani is a great place to spend an entire summer vacation in the Mediterranean Sea . But you have just a day to enjoy it, so time is of the essence.

Admire The City’s Baroque Architecture

Start your day off with a stroll around the city, exploring its unique architecture. Chiesa delle Anime Sante del Purgatorio is an excellent place to admire Trapani’s Baroque architecture. 

Other historical sites like Cattedrale di San Lorenzo and Piazza Mercato del Pesce are also great depictions of Baroque architecture and are worth a visit.

Go Island Hopping

Hop on a boat tour to the Egadi Islands and enjoy a fantastic day of island hopping between Favignana and Levanzo. Onboard, you’ll have expert commentary about the islands and their Roman history. You’ll find several snorkeling spots and beaches ideal for sunbathing.

Visit the Trapani Salt Flats

Take a short 15-minute drive to Trapani’s salt pans for an immersive experience in the rich history of the city’s salt production. Your guided tour starts at the Mulino Maria Stella, where you’ll learn about the salt-making process. And remember to keep your eyes peeled for nesting flamingos around the salt flats.

Bonus Activity: Day Trip to Erice

If you have some more time, take a day trip to Erice — one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Italy . This historic hilltop village has about 60 churches, a cathedral, and two castes, so there’s a lot to see and do. You’ll also get stunning aerial views of Trapani.

The drive to Palermo city center is 1 hour 25 minutes.

Palermo is the island’s bustling capital. We recommend visiting on day 2 so you can unwind a little bit in Trapani and get those first few amazing sea views before launching into the city.

Where to Stay in Palermo

Rocco Forte Villa Igiea  

A renovated Art Nouveau palazzo overlooking the gulf or Palermo – luxury 5-star family-run hotel. 

Take a Walking Tour Around Palermo

There’s so much to see and do in Palermo. But, like many cities in Europe , a great place to start exploring the city is its historic city center. The best way to explore Palermo is by getting lost in its endless walkable passages as you eat your way through the city’s food hotspots.

Take a street food walking tour and explore Palermo’s backstreet markets and food stalls serving local delicacies. You’ll also visit open-air markets like Mercato di Capo and Vucciria Market, where you can enjoy a tasty lunch.

If you don’t have much time to explore Palermo on foot, you can take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour and see top attractions in half the time.

Admire Medieval Architecture at Quattro Canti and Piazza Pretoria

Learn about Palermo’s history through its stunning medieval architecture and bustling squares. Getting an up-close look at the Quattro Canti intersection is a must. Once you’re done marveling at the Quattro Canti, head over to the adjacent Piazza Pretoria.

Here you’ll find a massive structure named Fontana Pretoria , dominating the square with its 436-foot circumference and a towering 39-foot height. The fountain boasts several statues of nude nymphs, tritons, and river gods – which earned it the nickname “Fountain of Shame”.

Visit the Cattedrale di Palermi and Norman Palace

Your next stops are the Cattedrale di Palermo and Norman Palace , where you get a closer look at the architectural prowess of ancient Silicians. If you’d like to see more, take this markets and monuments walking tour and discover other iconic monuments like Teatro Massimo .

The drive to Cefalu is one hour.

The next city on your Sicily itinerary is another gorgeous coastal town – Cefalù. This vibrant old town has a lot to offer, from beautiful sandy beaches to casual restaurants dotted along winding medieval streets and, of course, the unmissable Norman Cathedral.

To cut down on the amount of times you need to change hotel, I would recommend just spending the day in Cefalu and moving on to Taormina for your overnight.

Hike to Castello di Cefalù

Kick off day four of your Sicily itinerary by taking a two-mile hike to Castello di Cefalù. The trail takes you up Rocca di Cefalù, where you’ll find several prehistoric ruins like the Temple of Diana and Church of St. Anna, built in the 5th and 10th centuries, respectively. While you’re here, take some time to enjoy the panoramic views of Cefalù from above.

Admire the Duomo di Cefalù

Once you’ve seen the city from a bird’s eye perspective, make your way to the Duomo di Cefalù. This towering Roman Catholic cathedral makes part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale. Inside the basilica, you’ll spot incredible 12th-century religious mosaics and ornate frescoes.

Explore the Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino

Before you call it a day, take some time to explore a historical laundry house that dates back to the 15th century. This medieval wash house was used by locals well into the 20th century. Walking through the washhouse, you’ll get a glimpse of medieval life in Sicily and how inhabitants used the stone wash basins and cast-iron spouts to do their laundry.

Taormina is one of the popular cities on Sicily’s east coast. The stunning hilltop town also has dramatic backdrops of Mount Etna and its own Greek-Roman Theater. But there are lots of other things to do in Taormina , and you’ll find plenty of charming spots dotted across the city’s medieval cobblestoned streets.

Where to Stay in Taormina

There’s no better place to stay than the  Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , with direct views of Mount Etna.

Walk Around Teatro Antico di Taormina

The ancient theater of Taormina was first built by the Greeks in the third century and later reconstructed and enlarged by the Romans. This 5,400-seater theater was initially built for musicals and performances, and it was turned into a stadium for gladiator games. 

What makes Teatro Antico di Taormina a spectacular feature in the city is its incredible views of the Calabrian Coast and Sicily’s Ionian Coast – so don’t miss out on this attraction.

One of the biggest tourist draws to Sicily is Mount Etna, so it’s only right that you take a hike up the famous peak. Mount Etna is a stratovolcano known for its incredible level of activity; the volcano has been erupting for over 2,700 years. 

A fantastic way to see this monumental landmark is by taking a half-day tour to Mount Ena, where an expert guide will take you through the volcano’s ancient craters and lava flow cave. Your day trip also included a special wine tasting and an incredible view. If you want to hike up to the summit of the crater, this tour is for you.

Mt Etna is home to some of the best wineries in Sicily, so a wine-tasting trip should be on the cards. Take this small group food and wine tour, tasting local delicacies in villages in and around Mount Etna’s countryside. Pick up is from Taormina, so you don’t have to change hotels for this trip.

Day 5: Catania

Catania is the second-largest city on the island. This ancient port city sits at the base of Mount Etna and is abundant with culture, architecture, and bustling markets.

For me, it’s only really necessary to visit one of the cities, so if you’ve already planned to visit Palermo, you can skip Catania, or vice versa. Not because Catania isn’t great, it is. I just think the smaller towns are more “real Sicily” and should be prioritized.

Where to Stay in Catania

With tastefully decorated rooms and high-end amenities and facilities, the  Libe rt y Hotel  is one of the best in the city.

Take a Walking Tour Around Catania

Take a guided tour through Catania to see the city’s gorgeous medieval architecture and learn about its history and culture from a local. During your tour, you’ll get to see highlights such as the Ursino Castle, the vibrant scalinata Alessi, La Pescheria, and lots of piazzas.  

Tour the Massimo Theater

The Massimo Theater is the biggest opera house in Italy and one of the largest in Europe . This gorgeous 1,387-seater theater is known for its perfect acoustics, and you can give them a try during your guided tour of the Neoclassical building. You also get to tour the Valsecchi art collection in the historic Palazzo Butera. 

Admire the Frescoes at Palazzo Biscari

If you’re an art lover, visiting Palazzo Biscari should be your favorite thing on this Sicily itinerary. This Baroque palace is the most private in Catania, boasting jaw-dropping interiors from wall to ceiling. Take a guided tour of Palazzo Biscari and marvel at its gorgeous frescoes, paintings, overdoors, and stunning terracotta floors.

Visit the Catania Fish Market

Immerse yourself in Catania’s everyday life by visiting the local fish market. This seafood market has lots of enthusiastic fishmongers selling the day’s catch under colorful umbrellas. To get here, you’ll climb a series of stairs made of volcanic rock – how cool is that?

Explore Catania’s Roman Architecture

Catania is one of the first Sicilian cities to fall to the Romans in 263 BC, so it has a lot of historical monuments from that era. A great way to see the legacy of the Romans and their architecture is by exploring its relics dotted across the city.

Start at the Greek-Roman Theater, where you’ll find two ancient open-air arc Roman theaters. The larger theater was designed to accommodate 7,000 spectators and had marble columns. On the west end, you’ll find the Odeon theater, built for 1,500 people.

Your next stop is the Roman Amphitheater of Catania in the historic Piazza Stesicoro. While most of the ruins lie under the four adjoining streets, the amphitheater was originally built to accommodate 15,000 spectators and is one of the largest in the Roman world.

Sicily Travel Itinerary Day 7: Syracuse

Syracuse is a historic town sitting along the Ionian Coast. This stunning medieval city boasts an abundance of Greek and Roman architecture and amphitheaters, and it’s said to be the birthplace of the famous Archimedes – a Greek engineer, mathematician, and inventor.

Where to Stay in Syracuse

The Caportigia Boutique Hotel  is a 5-star hotel with an excellent location, and luxurious suites with breathtaking views.

Explore Neapolis Archaeological Park

In the Archaeological Park Neapolis, you’ll find plenty of ancient ruins to admire. The complex comprises marvelous Roman and Greek architecture. You can take a tour of Neapolis Archaeological Park and admire its Roman Amphitheater, Teatro Greco, and the Ear of Dionysius –  a limestone cave formed like a human ear.

Visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi

If you want to dive deeper into Syracuse’s history, visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi for a front-row seat to the most extensive archeological museums in Sicily. Here, you’ll see a large collection of fossils and figurines, including Titian’s Venus Anadyomene.

Walk the Grounds at the Temple of Apollo

Dating back as far as the sixth century, the Temple of Apollo sits adjacent to Piazza Pancali. These ancient ruins are one of the most important Greek monuments in Sicily. This Doric temple is considered a pioneer in Greek architecture, as it displays a transition from building with wood to using stone. 

Bonus Activity: Marvel at the Arethusa Spring

If you have some time to spare before the end of your Sicily itinerary, take a stroll down to the Arethusa Spring – a natural spring with a mythical story. This is a great place to sit and recollect all the memories you’ve made on this trip. 

How to Spend One Week in Sicily | Wrapped Up

Italy is home to some of the best well-preserved medieval towns in Europe , and Sicily has plenty of them. The country’s popular regions like Tuscany and Lazio may get the most attraction from travelers, but Sicily is a must-visit.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

2 thoughts on “ The Perfect Sicily Itinerary: How to Spend 5-7 Days ”

Thank you for a great article. We go every year to Sicily. 7 days is such a tease. We go for 2 weeks at a time and still is not enough. What is interesting is no one writes about Marsala. It is a tranquil oasis that seems to be forgotten. Grazie mille per il tuo articulo

Yeah 7 days is definitely not enough! There is just so much to see there and driving takes up so much of the time.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

• Travel Resources

30 Super Useful Sicily Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

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

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

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

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

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

Disclosure :  This Sicily Travel Guide contains affiliate links to our trusted partners. It means that we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase by clicking a link. It helps us grow the blog and create more of free useful travel advice for you. 

30+ essential Sicily travel tips: plan your perfect visit

Sicily travel essentials.

• Rent a car : The best way to explore Sicily is self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars . I use this website to book my rental cars.
• Stay: find your perfect accommodation in Sicily on Booking.com .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Sicily from your location.
• Peace of mind: always remember to get travel insurance to be on the safe side. Get a quote at SafetyWing .
• eSIM Card: Stay connected as soon as you land.   Airalo   offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe.

GETTING TO KNOW SICILY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Is Sicily worth visiting? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Related article: Is Sicily safe? Areas to avid and safety tips.

WHEN TO TRAVEL TO SICILY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Go before it is too late! 

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

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

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

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

GETTING TO AND AROUND SICILY

Getting to sicily: airplane, ferry, or train.

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

Getting to Sicily by air

As expected, most travelers come to Sicily by air. There are 4 airports in Sicily -one in the capital Palermo in the West North, one in Catania in the East, one in Trapani in the West of the island and one near Ragusa Ibla in southeast of Sicily.

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

Getting to Sicily by ferry

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

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

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

Internationally, you can reach Sicily from Malta and Tunisia. 

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

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

Popular ferry routes to Sicily

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

Getting to Sicily by train

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Car rental tip:  if you are looking for  an affordable rental car, check  Discovercars .  This is a car search website that I use for all my trips to Italy. Just by comparing rates between different rental companies,  Discovercars can help you save up to 70% on your rental rate .  It also gives an option to add a reasonably priced full coverage (insurance).

9. Getting around Sicily with public transport

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

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

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

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

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

HOW TO PLAN YOUR SICILY ROUTE

10. how many days do you need in sicily .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ACCOMMODATION – WHERE TO STAY IN SICILY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Accommodation: I always book my stays through Booking.com . This accommodation search site provides a variety of places to stay for any budget. Also, as a returning customer of Booking.com, you get some great Genius discounts (10-30%), and special mobile-only prices when booking through their app. Tip: always check the booking cancelation policy, and if possible, choose accommodation with the most flexible cancelation terms. I usually book places that I can cancel as close to the trip as possible to be on the safe side in case my plans change.

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

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

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

GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH SICILIAN CULTURE

19. travel to sicily just for food.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. Coffee price at a bar vs at a table

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

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

LANGUAGE AND INTERACTION WITH LOCALS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Meet the locals

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

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

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

27. Do not joke about Mafia

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

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

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

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

MONEY, INTERNET, SIM CARD, GROCERIES

28. is sicily expensive to travel to .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Get a local sim card for cheaper data

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. Covid – 19 in Sicily requirements

UPDATE: this is not applicable, Corona is gone!

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

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

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

More Italy travel guides

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?
• Is Sicily safe? Areas to avoid and safety tips by a regular visitor.
• Airports in Sicily Italy : which one you should fly to?

Italy Itineraries

• 15 Most Beautiful Road Trips in Italy: great ideas for your Italy itinerary
• 10-Day South Italy Itinerary: Naples to Calabria road trip
• 14-Day Sicily Itinerary: a 2-week Sicily road trip
• 2 Days in Amalfi Coast Itinerary: how to spend 48 hours on Amalfi Coast, Italy
• 2 weeks Puglia itinerary – Italy’s heel in 14 days

General Italy travel guides

• Browse all my  blog posts about Italy   HERE .
• Looking for romantic road trip ideas in Italy? Check my list of  15 Best Road Trips in Italy.
• The ultimate guide to renting a car in Italy
• Tips for driving in Italy for the first time .
• Best coastal towns in southern Italy.
• Explore Calabria- the least visited region in Italy.
• Visit Sicily- the biggest island in Italy.

Italy travel resources

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

• HIRE A CAR : Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• CHEAP FLIGHTS: find the cheapest and the best flight combinations with Skyscanner .
• ACCOMMODATION: find your perfect stay on Booking.com .
• VISA: apply for a Schengen visa easily at iVisa . Use OneWayFly to reserve dummy flight tickets/hotels if required for your visa application.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider. For the cheapest travel insurance on the market check SafetyWing .
• eSIM CARD: Stay connected before you land. Airlo offers an eSIM card with up to 20 GB (7 to 30 days) data packages for Italy and Europe for reasonable rates.
• GUIDED TOURS:  Find the best day tours in Italy on  GetYourGuide , outdoor tours and activities with Manawa .
• PRIVATE TRANSFER: Book a private transfer to any location in Italy with GetTransfer .
• FLIGHT GOT CANCELLED OR DELAYED? You may receive compensation of up to 600 EUR. Consult and get support from AirHelp or Skycop .

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sicily?

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

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Sicily

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 to 10 Day Sicily Itinerary

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

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

Day 1 – Catania

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Catania

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Taormina, Mt Etna or Siracusa

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

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

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

Day 3 – Catania

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

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

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

Day 4 – Cefalu

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Palermo

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Palermo

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Palermo

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Monreale, Segesta & Erice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Trapani

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Trapani

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

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

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

Day 9 – Marsala & Selinunte

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Agrigento

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

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

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

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

Day 10 – Agrigento

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

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

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

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

Have More Time?

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts:

Italy or Spain: Which Country Should You Visit?

The Perfect Palermo to Agrigento Day Trip Itinerary

The Perfect 2 or 3 Days in Verona Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

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

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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.

[convertkit form=828904]

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks so much, Suzanne!

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

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

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

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

Hi Claudia,

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Sicily   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Federico Scotto | Getty Images

Why Go To Sicily

Picture a tropical island – gentle waves spilling onto sandy shores, sunshine gleaming off a sparkling sea and volcanoes spurting steam in the distance. Add to that image: lush, rolling hills, topped by ruins from antiquity like those at the Valley of the Kings  near Luxor, Egypt . And then you need to imagine the rich tastes of fresh seafood, decadent pastas and desserts. This is Sicily – a balmy, laid-back refuge with an Italian mentality, especially seen in its cuisine and zeal for life. You'll find this large, triangular island, which happens to be the largest island in the Mediterranean, at the toe of Italy's boot, surrounded by the Tyrrhenian, Mediterranean and Ionian seas.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in October 2024
• # 2 in Best Beaches in Italy
• # 6 in Best Places to Visit in Italy

Best of Sicily

Best hotels in sicily.

• # 1 in Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina
• # 2 in Villa Sant'Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare
• # 3 in Mazzarò Sea Palace - VRetreats

Best Things to Do in Sicily

• # 1 in Aeolian Islands
• # 2 in Mount Etna
• # 3 in Greek Theatre of Taormina

Popular Tours

Boat tour Giardini Naxos Taormina Isola Bella Blue Grotto

(323 reviews)

from $ 38.59

Taormina and Castelmola Tour from Messina

(294 reviews)

from $ 99.24

Boat Tour Egadi Day discover Favignana and Levanzo from Trapani

(901 reviews)

from $ 105.85

Sicily Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Sicily is from May to June or September to October. These late spring and early fall months offer hospitable temperatures in the 70s and low 80s, which are ideal for temple gazing, beach lazing or hiking. These are both considered shoulder seasons, and you may be able to score some discounts. If you plan a July or August vacation, you'll contend with lots of crowds, high prices and the hottest temperatures of the year. Winter sees temperatures in the 50s and low 60s; you can find greatly reduced hotel rates, but swimming in the ocean isn't an option.

Weather in Sicily

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Avoid a summer trip While a summer visit is ideal for sunbathing, it can be less than ideal if you're hoping to explore ancient archaeological sites that offer little to no shade.

Eat your heart out Sicily is full of local specialties like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and fresh seafood. If you'd like a little guidance navigating Sicily's dining scene, consider signing up for a food tour. Sicily's top food tours are featured in our list of the best Italy tours .

Bring walking shoes Some of Sicily's top attractions, including the Valley of the Temples and Mount Etna , will require a lot of walking, and thus, a quality pair of shoes.

How to Save Money in Sicily

Ride a bus While traveling to Sicily's various cities by train may be quicker, taking a bus, especially round trip, may be the cheapest option.

Take advantage of free activities Sicily has lots of free things to do from its plentiful beaches to hiking to its many beautiful churches.

Visit during the low season Although you may face rain and cooler temperatures, you're also likely to score deals on hotels , restaurants and attractions from November to April.

Culture & Customs

Sicilians tend to be friendly and welcoming, though they may not speak English. In fact, many speak in a Sicilian dialect, which is a bit of a mix of words from various cultures that once conquered the island, including Spanish, French, Greek and Arabic. They are also known to be aggressive drivers, so watch out when crossing streets or driving.

Most Sicilians consider themselves to be Roman Catholic, so much of the island's culture centers around the holidays and festivities of the Catholic church. Holy days like the Feasts of the Assumption and the Immaculate Conception of Mary are national holidays, Sicily celebrates the feasts of St. Agatha, its patron saint, and Santa Rosalia.

Sicily's official currency is the euro, and you may want to check the exchange rate before you travel there. Plan to carry cash and coins with you, as many establishments may not take credit cards, especially in some of the island's smaller towns. When dining, tipping is common in Sicily and locals recommend leaving 3 or 4 euros for your server, or around 5% of your bill.

What to Eat

Sicily has been influenced by many cultures, including Greek, Roman, Norman, Arab and more, so its cuisine is a unique mixture of many traditions. Some classic dishes include arancini (a fried rice ball), cazzilli (pan-fried, potato croquettes), crispeddi (fried potato fritters) and the island's famous pastries like pignolata (a dessert of fried dough) typically enjoyed during Christmas. Sicily is known for the production of many foods and food products like extra virgin olive oil, capers, prickly pears, blood oranges and olives. Be sure to give their pecorino and Ragusano cheeses a taste and sample their sumptuous sausages.

The Principe Cerami at the San Domenico Palace Hotel, overlooking the Ionian Sea in Taormina, is a fine dining restaurant serving haute cuisine with a Sicilian touch. The menu features pastas with black truffle, smoked anchovies and stuffed guinea fowl, as well as a variety of Mediterranean fish entrees.

For a bistro setting, check out Antica Focacceria San Francesco in downtown Palermo, which dates back to 1834. Sample their brand of arancini, focaccia sandwiches and Sardinian meatballs. Palermo is also known for its street food with items like boiled octopus, fritters and rice croquettes cooked up roadside.

Seafood lovers won't want to miss L 'Oste e Il Sacristano in Licata where visitors recommend the pasta in fish broth with red prawns. Other options include barbecue octopus and pasta with clams.

Travel to Italy is generally safe, even though it's rife with rumors of a mafia presence. As with many European countries, simply be aware and on the lookout for pickpockets and petty thieves. In some cases, people on motorcycles may snatch a bag or purse as they drive by. Leave valuables and extra cash in a safe place at home or in the hotel room safe, and never leave your bags unattended.

The U.S. Department of State issued an advisory in December 2018 warning Americans to exercise increased caution in Italy overall due to terrorism. The Department of State also warns that some thieves may impersonate police officers and that you should always ask to see a uniformed officer or the officer's identification card.

Additionally, because Sicily is home to an active volcano, Mount Etna , there is the potential for it to erupt, which could cause airports to close and other disruptions.

Getting Around Sicily

The best way to get around Sicily is by train, as it allows you to quickly and affordably get from the island's various cities while still enjoying the scenery. Be sure to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines. Buses are another affordable transportation method and may be your next best option. They're less expensive than trains; however, they don't get you there as quickly. You can purchase bus tickets in many places, including newsstands, bars and tabacchi shops, but be sure to bring cash to pay for your ticket.

Cars can give you more freedom when traveling throughout Sicily, but you'll have to contend with traffic, confusing tolls, limited traffic zones (where you can be heavily fined if you're driving where you shouldn't be), parking and more. Since Sicily is surrounded by water, you can travel by ferry, as well, though service may be limited in the winter months.

You can fly into Sicily via three airports, including Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), Trapani Vincenzo Florio Airport (TPS) and Catania Vincenzo Bellini Airport (CTA). There are shuttle services and taxis that will take you to town or you can ride the local bus from Catania airport. Additionally, you can reach Sicily by water from mainland Italy and France, as well as islands like Sardinia and Corsica using ferry services like Corsica Ferries-Sardinia Ferries . You can even reach Sicily by train from the Italian mainland with the entire train boarding a ferry for the water crossing.

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens may enter Italy with a valid passport that does not expire for at least six months from the time you plan to leave the country and that has at least two blank pages for stamps. What's more, you can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State website .

Mount Etna can be seen from many vantage points on Sicily.

Explore More of Sicily

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 2 in  Best Places to Visit in September 2024

# 5 in  Best Honeymoons in Europe for 2024

# 1 in  Best Beaches in Italy

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Travel notes

Collections

Experiences with soul

• Destinations
• experiences
• think exquisite

Featured villas

Palombaggia, Corsica

3 Bathrooms

Marza (Ispica), Sicily

Baia L’Aura

5 Bathrooms

Alati Bay, Paxos

7 Bathrooms

Featured collections

Villas in Italy

Villas in Greece

Villas in Corsica

Discover more

Culinary retreats Rocca delle Tre Contrade

• Guide to Sicily

Your travel guide to Sicily

General information about sicily, travel to and around sicily, food and wine in sicily, towns and cities in sicily, areas of sicily.

The Ultimate 7 Day Sicily Itinerary (2024)

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and amazing food and wine, it’s no surprise that Sicily is one of the most popular destinations in the Meditteranean. With so much to see and do on the island, it can be challenging to plan a Sicily itinerary and that’s where we’re here to help!

Having explored the island and experienced much of what it has to offer we’ve put together our recommended one week Sicily itinerary. We’ve included everything you’ll need to plan your own Sicily itinerary for 7 days: it includes route suggestions, how long to spend in each area, the best places to stay, and all the best things to see and do in Sicily in one week.

Table of Contents

Sicily Itinerary: the Essentials

First things first, there are a number of Sicily itinerary essentials that are worth considering when planning your trip.

How Long to Spend in Sicily?

Sicily is the largest island in the Meditteranean and there is so much to see and do. You could easily spend two or three weeks exploring the island. If you have one week then we recommend focusing on eastern Sicily.

One week in Sicily : if you have one week then we recommend focusing on the eastern Sicily highlights. A week affords time to visit Taormina, Mount Etna, Syracuse/Ortigia, and the historical towns of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa.

Best time to visit Sicily

With its Mediterranean climate, Sicily is a great year-round destination. Our favourite months to visit are those shouldering the high season, so May, June, September, and October – but it depends on what you plan to do on the island.

• Summer: If you want endless sunshine and dips in the sea then the summer months are favourable.
• Shoulder seasons: if you want a mix of sun and sightseeing then the shoulder months are preferable and hotel rates are often lower.
• Year-round: if sightseeing is your main priority and you don’t mind the cooler months then take advantage of the lower crowds and hotel rates during the rest of the year.

Sicily itinerary tip: we most recently visited Sicily in September and it was a perfect balance of lovely weather (high 20s C), lower crowds and some great rates on hotels.

Shoulder-Season (May-June / September-October): the weather tends to be very good with the south and east coast temperatures typically in the 2 0°Cs even in May and October. Crowds tend to be lower, hotel availability and prices are better and sightseeing is more pleasant in the lower temperatures. The towns and cities are less crowded but are still lively enough for a great atmosphere.

Peak-Season (July and August ): these are the peak months for visitors to Sicily, so demand for hotels and crowds are increased. Temperatures range from lows at night of 20 °C to daytime highs of over 30°C.

Low-Season (November to April) The off-peak months are the best for those looking to visit the archaeological and historical sites on the island. Visitor numbers to Sicily are much lower during these months and daytime temperatures rarely drop below 10 °C .

How to get around Sicily

Most visitors to Sicily either rent a car or travel by train. It’s also possible to see lots of the island by taking day trips from the two biggest cities, Palermo and Catania.

Renting a car

Renting a car in Sicily is the easiest way to explore the island. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make stops at all the wonderful sights on the island. We love having a rental car in Sicily as it gives so much freedom to explore the island.

Rental car prices can be slightly more expensive than the Italian mainland (as is expected with most island rentals), however, if you book in advance you can secure good prices and car availability. We recommend using Booking.com  to reserve your car. They have a great selection and really competitive prices –  check prices here!

Book your Sicily rental car now

Sicily by train

Sicily has a good train network and it is possible to reach many of the popular destinations by train. Well serviced tourist routes include:

• Palermo – Catania – Taromina
• Palermo – Cefalu
• Catania – Syracuse
• Syracuse – Noto
• Palermo – Agrigento

Day Trips and Tours

Many of the main sights can be reached by taking day trips from the popular tourist towns. We’ll list some of the most popular tours as we move through the itinerary.

Sicily Itinerary: Suggested 7 Days

From the stunning seaside town of Taormina to the buzzing capital of Palermo and the historical Baroque Island of Ortigia, this is the ultimate 7 day Sicily Itinerary for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful Mediterranean island.

Sicily Itinerary: Suggested One Week Route

Most visitors to Sicily arrive through either Catania or Palermo. We’ve included itineraries for both of these arrival points so you can follow our recommended Sicily itinerary from either.

Our one-week Sicily itinerary includes lots of day trip ideas so you will have lots of opportunities to explore more of the island.

• If you fly into Catania : Catania – Taromina – Syracuse/Ortigia – Catania
• If you fly into Palermo: Palermo – Taormina – Syracuse/Ortigia – Palermo

Our route includes all the main cities, sights, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the east of the island. We’ve also included some of the lesser-visited spots that are definitely worth a stop.

Sicily Itinerary: Route Map

We’ve put together a one week Sicily Itinerary route map which includes all the main sites on the island and our recommended route.

Click here for the Google Map

How to Use This Google Map:  Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

Sicily 7 Day Itinerary

The first two days will be spent in Catania or Palermo depending on which airport you arrive at in Sicily. After day 2, both itineraries follow the same route on the east coast of the island before departing Sicily.

Days 1/2: Palermo / Catania

If you arrive in palermo: palermo (2 nights).

Visitors to Sicily might be tempted to skip the capital city of Palermo in favour of the seaside towns on the east and south of the island but it’s definitely worth spending at least one day checking out Palermo.

Sicily itinerary tip: We recommend speding two nights in Palermo: one day to explore the city and a second to try some of the day trips from Palermo.

Where to Stay in Palermo

Hotel Politeama: we loved our stay in Hotel Politeama. Overlooking the Politeama Theatre, this modern hotel is perfectly located for exploring the city. The hotel has reasonably priced valet parking if you are driving – check prices now!

Alma Hotel : small boutique hotel located in the center of Palermo. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a budget-friendly hotel located close to everything in Palermo – check prices now!

Massimo Plaza Hotel : for those wanting one of the best locations in Palermo then check out the Massimo Plaza Hotel. It’s located directly in front of the Massimo Theatre opera house and is a short stroll from all the major sights – check prices now!

Book your Palermo hotel here

Things to do in Palermo

Palermo was a surprise hit for us on our first visit to Sicily and we loved the vibrant and fun city. There are lots of amazing things to do in Palermo , from enjoying the delicious food to browsing the markets throughout the city and marveling at the stunning architecture of this historic city.

Palermo is a foodie paradise so make sure to visit one of the city’s amazing food markets: Mercato del Ballaro (the largest of the markets), Mercato della Vuccuria and Mercato del Capo (a small local market) are all worth a visit and each market has its own charm.

The best way to sample Palermo food is by taking a food tour. This tour includes del Capo market, so it’s a great way to start your first day in Palermo, plus it will give you a great feel for the city – check prices now!

Book your food tour now

Palermo is also packed with historical and archaeological sites. The Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace with its Palatine Chapel were our favorites. Make sure to stop by the Massimo Theatre , the Capuchin Catacombs , and Santa Caterina Church , all of which should not be missed.

Day trips from Palermo

Due to its location, Palermo is a great place to visit some of Sicily’s most beautiful places by day trip. The most popular day trips are to Monreale, home to Monreale Cathedral, and the archaeological sites of Segesta and Agrigento. Our favourite day trips include:

• M onreale and Cefalu: located on the slopes of Monte Caputo, Monreale’s biggest draw is the Duomo di Monreale, its magnificent Cathedral adorned with gold mosaics. Considered the most important masterpiece of Sicily’s Norman period, the cathedral is one of 9 civil and religious structures which make up the UNESCO listing for the Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale. The coastal town of Cefalu is a typical Italian seaside town and is home to Duomo di Cefalu, another cathedral on the list – check tour prices here!
• Segesta, Erice and the Salt Pans of Trapani: a whistlestop tour of three remarkable sights on the west of Sicily. The tour includes the beautiful archaeological site of Segesta and the medieval hilltop town of Erice as well as a stop at the Salt Pans of Trapani – check tour prices here!
• Agrigento and Valley of Temples: one of the highlights of Sicily, the sprawling archaeological site is located on a rocky hilltop overlooking the ocean and is home to some incredible Greek artefacts –  check tour prices here!

Check out our full list of day trips from Palermo for more day-trip ideas.

If you arrive in Catania: Catania (2 nights)

An ancient port city, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city and the arrival point for many visitors. Catania is different to Palermo, but not in a bad way. While Palermo may have more markets, Catania is better for shopping and has an abundance of trattoria for food. Catania’s architecture is also more Boroque buildings and it’s worth spending a few nights in the historic city, a compelling mix of gritty and charming.

Sicily Itinerary tip: Catania was almost entirely destroyed in the 1693 earthquake (not Mount Etna as sometimes assumed) and the city was rebuilt in the Boroque style, leading to a different experience compared with Palermo.

We recommend allowing two days for Catania: one day to explore the city and a second to make some of the day trips from the city.

Where to stay in Catania

• Hotel Centrum Catania : great location close to Catania’s historic attractions. Rooms are refurbished and modern and breakfast and parking are provided for guests – check prices here!
• Hotel Villa Romeo : once a 19th Century palace, the hotel is located opposite the train station making it a convenient choice for those travelling in Sicily by train – check prices now!

Book your stay in Catania now

Things to do in Catania

One day is enough time to see most of the main sights in Catania.

Start your morning at the Catania Fish Market (Piscaria Mercato del Pesce). Located close to the Port and a short walk from Ursino Castle (Castello Ursino). The fish market is one of the best markets in Sicily and is packed with every kind of seafood imaginable.

Sicily Itinerary: LIke most markets in Europe we recommend visiting the fish market early in the morning to experience it at its best. It can get very busy by mid morning.

Make sure not to miss the Catania Archaeological Park in the centre of the old town. Catania was once a Greek settlement and the ruins of the Greek Theatre remain hidden away under the city. The park contains a Roman Amphiteare and baths along with the Greek-Roman Theatre on Via Vittorio Emanuele II.

One of the best parts of the park is that visitors are free to walk around all of the ruins so it’s a very intimate experience compared to other archaeological sites in Italy.

There are many great sites to explore in Catania. We recommend a visit to the stunning Bellini Gardens and the impressive Catania Cathedral . The medieval Ursino Castle is definitely worth an hour to explore and has an impressive museum inside.

If you fancy some window shopping take a stroll up Via Etnae , a partially pedestrianised street that leads off Piazza Duomo. There is also a great view of Mount Etna in the distance looking north from Via Etnae.

Day trips from Catania

Catania is a great base for day trips to various places along the east coast of Sicily. A visit to Mount Etna is by far the most popular day trip from Catania. It’s is also possible to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site such as Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale as a day trip.

• Mount Etna: most visitors to Catania make the journey to Mount Etna, one of Sicily’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. There are some fantastic tours which include guided hikes around the ancient craters and recent lava flows. This tour is one of the most popular day trips from Catania and the best for Mount Etna – check prices here!

Book your trip to Mount Etna

• Another great option for Mount Etna is this tour that includes Mount Etna cable car and a hike to the summit – check prices here!
• Godfather filming locations: a must-do for fans of the Godfather trilogy, this tour visits the Sicily filming locations around Catania- check prices here!
• Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale: one of the highlights of Sicily, the sprawling archaeological site is located on a rocky hilltop overlooking the ocean and is home to some incredible Greek artefacts – check prices here!

Both itineraries follow the same route from Day 3:

Days 3/4: Taormina (2 nights)

Taormina is located on the northeastern corner of Sicily in the shadow of Mount Etna and is one of our favorite places in Sicily. The beautiful hillside town is perched almost 500 meters above the sea and is a Meditteranean paradise with quaint old streets, incredible food, and beautiful views.

We recommend at least two full days for Taormina (although we could have spent a week here!).

Sicily Itinerary tip: Taormina is a key stop for many cruise ship tours so it can get very busy during the day.

Getting from Palermo/Catania to Taormina

It’s a three-hour drive from Palermo to Taormina along the beautiful north coast of Sicily. The coastal town of Cefalù is a lovely stop en route. The highlight is the Cefalù Cathedral nestled beneath La Rocca di Cefalù, the great hill towering over the town.

You can also take the train between Palermo or Catania and Taormina: it takes about 4.5 hours from Palermo Centrale to Taormina Giardini, connecting in Catania Centrale.

Where to Stay in Taormina

Taormina is a really popular tourist destination in Sicily and, despite its small size, attracts many visitors each year. As a result demand for hotels during peak months is very high so we recommend booking your stay well in advance, so it’s important to decide on where to stay in Taormina well in advance of your trip.

Sicily Itinerary tip: We recommend staying in a hotel in the old town so the restaurants and sights are only a short walk away. If you stay by the sea then it’s a long walk or a taxi drive up to the old town.

• Hotel Villa Belvedere : our favorite hotel to stay in Taormina, we love staying at Hotel Villa Belvedere. The hotel overlooks the ocean and has views of Mount Etna. There is a beautiful pool and the Old Town location means it’s a perfect choice. Hotel Villa Belvedere is one of the most popular in Taormina and does sell out during peak times, so make sure to book well in advance – check prices now!
• Hotel Villa Ducale : a small boutique hotel with incredible views of the sea and Mount Etna. Hotel Vilal Ducale is located on the hill above Taormina, a short walk from Madonna della Rocca Church and offers a shuttle down to the town and beach. – check prices now!
• Hotel Casa Adele : a great budget option in Taormina. Casa Adele is perfectly located in the middle of Taormina beside Porta Catania, one of the main entrances to the old town. Everything is a short walk and it’s one of the best-ranked hotels in Taormina – check prices now!

Book your stay in Taormina

Things to do in Taormina

Despite it’s relatively small size, there are a lot of things to do in Taormina . Stroll along the Corso Umberto (the ancient main street) and take in the views from Piazza IX Aprile. Get lost down the winding back streets and check out the public gardens, a quiet oasis away from the crowds. The food in Taormina is also amazing and a stop at Bam Bar, famous for its granitas, is essential!

The highlight of Taormina is the ancient Greek theatre that sits in the old town. This 4th-century theatre has one of the most impressive backdrops we’ve ever seen with Mount Etna towering in the distance. To avoid the crowds we recommend visiting the theatre early in the morning – check prices now!

Book your Taormina theatre tickets here

If you fancy a day on the beach, make your way down the hill to Isola Bella, a small island located below Taormina. Known as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea, visitors can walk the stony beach out to the island and it’s a great place for a swim.

Sicily Itinerary tip: Isola Bella beach is a stony beach so we recommend taking swim shoes with you, especially for young kids.

If you’re feeling active there is a beautiful hike from the old town up to the Della Madonna Church above Taormina. The views from up here are incredible and it is a great place to view Mount Etna from.

Taormina is a great base for exploring the area and a day trip to Mount Etna is a must. We drove from Taormina to the Rifugio Sapienza, a tourist area on the slopes on Mount Etna from where the cable cars depart.

• Mount Etna: Mount Etna is a popular day trip from Taormina. One of the best tours includes pickup in an offroad jeep from Taormina from Catania or Taormina and a guided hike around the ancient craters and recent lava flows – check prices here! or this full-day tour which includes lunch and includes wine tasting at a local winery – check prices here!
• Aeolian Islands: a UNESCO World Heritage site, the seven island archipelago is a little piece of paradise located close to Sicily’s north coast. This full-day tour, which stops at two islands, is a fantastic opportunity to experience the Aeolian Islands – check prices here!

Days 5/6: Syracuse and Ortigia (2 nights)

The city of Syracuse and the island of Ortigia are packed with charm and history. Ortigia Island (also known as Città Vecchia, the Old City) is the historic centre of the city and is connected to Syracuse by three bridges.

We recommend spending at least three days in Syracuse, which will allow a day for exploring Ortigia, Syracuse and a day trip to the stunning old towns of Noto, Ragusa and Modica.

Where to Stay in Syracuse and Ortigia

The main decision facing visitors to Syracuse is whether to stay in Syracuse itself or on the historic island of Ortigia.

Siciliy itinerary tip: we decided to stay on the mainland as we had a rental car (Ortigia is a restricted traffic zone and parking is limited) and we planned to do lots of day trips. We spent a few mornings/afternoons in Ortigia and loved it.

Ortigia: Stay here if you want old-world charm, cobbled streets and boutique hotels. Ortigia is packed with character and offers stunning sea views and lots of restaurant options. Plus you will get to experience the island in the evening when most of the day visitors leave.

• Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel – one of the best hotel options in Ortigia and our top pick for the island check prices now!

Syracuse: We found the hotel options more affordable and more varied on the mainland and it was easier to find a hotel with free parking. It’s still very easy to visit Ortigia.

• Hotel Mercure Siracusa : we stayed here recently and had a lovely time. A modern hotel located a short walk from the Neapolis Archaeological Park and Archaeological Museum. It’s a perfect base for staying in Syracuse and it has free parking! – check prices now!
• Caportigia Boutique Hotel – another great option if you’re looking to stay on the mainland – check prices now!

Book your stay in Syracuse now

Things to do in Ortigia

We recommend taking a day to explore the beautiful island of Ortigia in the centre of Syracuse. It’s a small island and easily explored on foot.

Siciliy itinerary tip: If you are driving a rental car in Sicily there is ample parking close to the entrance to Ortigia. We don’t recommend taking a car onto Origitia island as the entire island is a a ZTL area. Entering the ZTL outside the allocated times can lead to a hefty fine.

There are lots of things to see in Ortigia, including the Arethusa Springs , the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse and the Temple of Apollo . We really enjoyed strolling around the narrow streets of Ortigia and just wandering around the town.

For a really unique experience in Ortigia check out the Church of St. Filippo the Apostle . The church is a hidden gem in Ortigia. Here visitors can take a tour of the underground levels of the church (built by the Greeks) that are beneath the city. Tours run hourly throughout the day.

Things to do in Syracuse

Most of the main historical sights in Syracuse are located just north of the city. Our favourite place in Syracuse was the Neapolis Archaeological Park which is home to the most important archaeological sites in Syracuse including the large Roman and Greek Amphitheatres. The park is open each day from 9 am and takes around 2-3 hours to visit – check prices now!

Make sure to visit the cave known as the Ear of Dionysius located in the park. This ancient water cistern is shaped like an ear which gives it excellent acoustics.

Book your tickets now

A short walk from the Neapolis Archaeological Park is the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi . The museum holds a vast array of artefacts from locations throughout Sicily and is one of the most prominent archaeological museums in Europe.

Sicily Itinerary tip: The museum also holds an impressive coin collection, which is only open to the public in the mornings.

The impressive Basilica Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime (Our Lady of the Tears) church is just across the road from the archaeological museum and is worth a visit.

One final place that’s worth a visit is the Catacombs of San Giovann i (the catacombs of St. John). Visitors can take a tour of the subterranean tombs that lie beneath the church.

Day Trips from Syracuse

Syracuse is a great base for exploring the southeast of Sicily. We stayed in Syracuse for 5 nights and did day trips to a number of places along the coast.

• Ragusa, Noto and Modica : the UNESCO towns of Ragusa, Noto and Modica are popular day trips from Syracuse. These beautiful towns are well worth the trip and we especially enjoyed Ragusa and Noto.

• Enjoy the Beaches : the coast around Syracuse has some of the best beaches in Sicily and great places to relax for a day. Some of the most popular beaches close to Syracusa include Arenella Beach (a popular local beach) and the beautiful Fontane Bianche.

• Necropolis of Pantalica : this is a perfect day trip for anyone interested in archaeology or hiking. The Necropolis of Pantalia is a cemetery of almost 5,000 rock-hewn tombs located in a limestone valley around an hour west of Syracuse. The necropolis dates back to the 7th-13th centuries. Pantalica was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the city of Syracuse, in 2005. We visited the necropolis from Syracuse and it was well worth it. The views of the gorge and the many tombs are a really unique experience.

Day 7: Return to Palermo / Catania

Depending on your departure city there is another day at the end of your trip to relax and take in anything you missed before departing Sicily.

3 thoughts on “The Ultimate 7 Day Sicily Itinerary (2024)”

Do you truly recommend driving in Sicily? I am a solo traveler and part of me feels it would be great to drive but I’ve heard it’s awful !!

Did you end up driving? Would love to know because I’m in the same sort of boat!

We had a rental car and drove around the island – this post has more info on driving in Sicily

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

Disclaimer:  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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

ITINERARIES

Travel tips and advice.

Abundance is the key word for understanding Sicily in its many facets: from one side of the island to the other, there are endless solutions for itineraries lasting a few hours, days or weeks.

In the western part, Palermo ‘s historical and architectural heritage is represented by the Cathedral and the Cappella Palatina, while archaeological triumph is celebrated in Agrigento ‘s Valley of the Temples and in Segesta. A treasure trove of antiquities that rank among the most beautiful in Italy can be found perched on Mount Erice , and the seaside villages such as Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo are home to an indescribable atmosphere. These places go straight to your heart at first glance.

In the eastern part, the lure of Etna is irresistible, between lava and snow. This leads you back to Catania , with a wealth of dynamic charm and a sparkling array of proposals for activities and nightlife.

The baroque of the southeast represents a great beauty among a thousand wonders and brings with it a nobility that starts from the soul.

Clear waters and pristine beaches are not far from urban jewels such as Syracuse , Taormina , Modica and Ragusa Ibla , home to a wealth of charm as well as ancient buildings and monuments.

And how could we not be seduced by literary Sicily , with the places dear to Camilleri and to the great Sicilian writers and poets that came before him? With Castles and sacred paths , food and wine tourism routes and those that lead to ancient rocky necropolises and naturalistic and cultural treasures enclosed and scattered within each of the nine provinces , ancient customs and new trends, Sicily is a single great itinerary, one that is extensive and engaging.

HIGH LIGHTS

Outdoors Sea in Sicily Sicily and Cinema

Discovering the places of Montalbano TV series

Have you ever imagined walking side by side with Inspector Montalbano? In this route, we will stroll through the places [...]

Archaeological Sicily Art and Culture Handicraft Outdoors

ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARKS BETWEEN CATANIA AND TAORMINA

Not all the archaeological parks are surrounded by unspoilt nature and set kilometres away from the city centres. Some cities [...]

Archaeological Sicily Outdoors Trekking and Outdoor UNESCO

LANDSCAPE AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK OF THE VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES

Have you ever dreamed about taking a walk back in time, among massive columns, perfectly preserved temples, flowering almond trees [...]

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM, SPORT AND ENTERTAINMENT – SICILY

Via Notarbartolo, 9 – 90141 – Palermo

Tourist Informations

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

VISIT SICILY

ACCESSIBILITY

• Toggle High Contrast
• Toggle Font size

© 2022 Regione Siciliana – All rights reserved

VAT number: 02711070827 – Tax Code: 80012000826 – Privacy

DATA PROCESSING

Privacy preview.

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

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Hotels + Resorts

The Best Hotels in Sicily, Italy

There's more to Sicily than The White Lotus lets on.

Courtesy of Mazzaro Sea Palace

There's a certain sense of calm that comes over you as you fly into Palermo, Sicily. The azure waters give way to verdant hillsides, punctuated by white-washed buildings with terracotta roofs along the way. Sure, upon landing, there's the usual airport chaos, along with the added stress of getting a rental car and attempting to drive through the tiny, winding streets in the city. But that only lasts a moment, and if you can get through it, you'll be rewarded with everything Sicily has to offer: climbing vines that make some of the best wines on Earth; olive groves producing that liquid gold; and if you roll down your window, you can smell the fields of citrus trees from a mile away.

Not to mention the fact that Sicily is home to some truly awesome historic sites like the Valley of the Temples and the Palermo Cathedral. And while you're on the island, you get the supreme honor of checking into some of the most stunning hotels in Europe. Below, find eight hotels sprinkled across Sicily that are worthy of a visit right now, based on our first-hand experience as well as winners from our prestigious World’s Best Awards and It List.

Villa Sant'Andrea, a Belmond Hotel

Courtesy of Villa Sant'Andrea 

Its gorgeous beachfront location provides some of the best views in Sicily.

Its nightly rate tends to skyrocket during peak season.

Nestled in the charming town of Taormina, Villa Sant'Andrea, a Belmond Hotel, is a luxurious, dream-come-true destination. The hotel, a World's Best Awards winner in 2020, 2021, and 2022, is set amid a lush garden on one side and overlooks the gorgeous Bay of Mazzarò on the other. The hotel's rooms and suites are all perfectly appointed, including its signature suites that come with private pools, dedicated host services, breakfast, and even laundry.

Guests can enjoy the spa, which offers massages and treatments in an outdoor area that overlooks the sea, and its exclusive dining destinations like Brizza, a 16-seat restaurant located right on the rocks above the ocean.

The Details:

• City: Taormina
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available 
• Nearby Attractions: Mount Etna, Isola Bella, Taormina Greek Theatre
• Loyalty Programs: Belmond Bellini Club
• Rates: Starting at $864 a night

Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Courtesy of Villa Igiea

There's historical charm tucked into every corner.

If you want to explore Palermo's city center, you'll have to drive.

Villa Igiea, located on the outskirts of Palermo, earned a spot on our 2022 It Iist thanks to its uncanny ability to marry historic charm with modern amenities. It's yet another Sicilian hotel that comes with marvelous sea views along with elegant interiors lovingly brought back to life by the Rocco Forte team, which purchased the property in 2019.

The rooms and suites are as regal as they come, with plush furnishings and canopy beds, while its exteriors exude the same refined charms thanks to well-manicured gardens and a pool surrounded by matching, emerald green umbrellas and chairs. Those who want to get out and explore beyond the hotel can thanks to its exclusive experiences just for guests — including everything from private tours of historic sites to hot air balloon rides over Sicily.

• City: Palermo
• Nearby Attractions: Palermo Cathedral, Norman Palace, Teatro Massimo
• Loyalty Programs: Rocco Forte Friends
• Rates: Starting at $485 a night

AD 1768 Boutique Hotel

Courtesy of AD 1768 Boutique Hotel

It features a unique history and stellar views.

It's a smaller hotel, so it comes with limited amenities.

AD 1768 Boutique Hotel, another 2020 It List winner, is a charming property that honors its historic past. The 18th-century building still boasts its original (albeit restored) ceramic floors and frescos adorning the walls. The rooms here are simple but elegant, with wrought iron beds and vaulted ceilings.

If you’re so inclined, opt for one of the executive rooms that come with a view of Piazza Duomo. In the morning, make your way to La Carretteria, the building's one-time carriage house turned common area, where every guest is invited to breakfast.

• City: Ragusa
• Nearby Attractions: Ragusa Ibla, Duomo di San Giorgio, Giardino Ibleo
• Loyalty Programs: No
• Rates: Starting at $124 a night

San Domenico Palace Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels

This property offers world-class service paired with 14th-century history.

It can be very expensive to stay during peak season.

San Domenico Palace Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, made its way onto our 2022 It List for all the right reasons. It's the first Sicilian outpost for the Four Seasons brand, and they pulled out all the stops to ensure they got it right. The hotel is actually a converted 14th-century convent that boasts heavenly (sorry, we had to) views of the ocean and Mount Etna.

Each of the rooms and suites is more romantic than the last, with floor-to-ceiling French doors that open to allow the sea breeze in, and some with private plunge pools for when you need a moment alone. Just be sure to make a reservation at Principe Cerami, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in Sicilian cuisine. Go ahead, treat yourself to the tasting menu while you're at it.

• Nearby Attractions: Mount Etna, Taormina Greek Theatre, Corso Umberto
• Rates: Starting at $1,273 a night

Grand Hotel Timeo

Courtesy of Grand Hotel Timeo

The panoramic views of Mount Etna never get old.

It's tough to get a reservation during peak season.

Looking for a sensational view of Mount Etna? Look no further than the Grand Hotel Timeo. The luxury property offers dazzling views of both Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea, which guests can swim in by stepping right outside. Visitors can also choose to quietly lounge by the azure pool, or sit and enjoy the view on their private balcony in the signature suites.

Spend a little more time unwinding in the spa, which features organic products for all its treatments. The hotel's dining options are fantastic, too, including its own 16-seat restaurant, Otto Geleng. The hotel's staff is top-notch, and will help to plan your best vacation ever through the hotel’s bespoke experiences program.

• Nearby Attractions: Mount Etna, Taormina Greek Theatre, Villa Comunale
• Rates: Starting at $656 a night

Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection

Courtesy of Marriott

Its history as a 20th-century post office shines through.

There's no outdoor pool.

​​Ortea Palace is a lovely neoclassical building overlooking the Porto Piccolo that was once the area's old post office. This elegant property offers spacious rooms and suites that each come with glistening marble floors and vibrant blue accent furniture.

Guests can take a dip in the indoor pool, which comes with a beautiful mosaic tile floor. The pool is also part of The Ortea Spa, where guests can indulge in a treatment or relax even further in the steam room. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, head straight upstairs to Incanto, the hotel's rooftop terrace that offers unparalleled views.

• City: Syracuse
• Wi-Fi: Included in the rate.
• Nearby Attractions: Ortigia, Syracuse Cathedral, Neapolis Archaeological Park
• Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
• Rates: Starting at $197 a night

Mazzaro Sea Palace

Its prime beachfront location offers superb views.

That beach can get rather crowded.

Mazzaro Sea Palace, located on the coast in Taormina, is tailor-made for those looking for beachside bliss. Each of the hotel's 70 rooms and suites comes with a balcony so every guest can enjoy a view, while several also come with the bonus of a private plunge pool so you can relax without another guest in sight.

But, there's always the private beach for taking a dip, too, which comes lined with gleaming white lounge chairs just for guests. After a day in the sun, re-fuel by visiting the hotel's restaurant, Armònia, which serves gourmet Sicilian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.

• Nearby Attractions: Isola Bella, Mount Etna, Taormina Greek Theatre
• Rates: Starting at $411 a night

Courtesy of Q92

The boutique atmosphere naturally lends itself to more personalized service.

There are limited amenities compared to larger hotels.

Located in the historic town of Noto, Q92 is a charming boutique destination that offers plenty of warm, personalized service. It offers just nine rooms and suites, though each is absolutely exquisite, combining ultra-comfortable modern furnishings with old-world decor, including exposed stone walls and antique-inspired paintings and sculptures.

Every morning the hotel offers guests breakfast in the lounge that overlooks the Noto Cathedral, while the hotel's concierge remains at the ready to provide you with a local's guide to Noto, ensuring a stay unlike any other.

• Nearby Attractions: Noto Cathedral, Palazzo Ducezio, Vendicari Nature Reserve
• Rates: Starting at $374 a night

Know Before You Go 

Try and learn a little italian.

If you're heading to Sicily it's a good idea to try and learn just a touch of Italian. English is not as widely spoken as it is in other parts of Italy (though you should still be fine at larger hotels and major tourist attractions). You can always use a translation app, but it’s smart to have a little "ciao," "grazie," and "mi potete aiutare per favore" in your back pocket, just in case.

Consider renting a car

Yes, there is public transportation in Sicily, but it can be complicated and unreliable. If you're comfortable driving, we recommend getting a car. This will also help you explore much more of the island and allow you to do it at your own pace, too.

Go on a winery tour 

Sicilian wine really is fantastic. Make sure to book at least one winery tour while you're there so you can taste the distinct Mediterranean notes of the terroir . And, as a bonus, you can pick up a bottle or two to bring home with you to share with friends as you regale them about your trip, too.

How We Chose These Hotels

Several of the hotels chosen for this story have earned spots in our World's Best Awards and It List , and many are also personal favorites of our editors. Writer Stacey Leasca visited Sicily on a road trip, reporting on the 1 euro villas for Travel + Leisure , and she's planning her return trip to officiate her first wedding in Sicily, too. She also consulted family, friends, editors, and locals for their input and researched guest reviews from a multitude of websites for others. And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

Related Articles

7 Things to Know Before Visiting Sicily in Italy

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

It’s not too often that I find myself spending a month in a region and feeling disappointed by how much there is still left to see. That’s a long time to travel anywhere and an opportunity that few get to enjoy. But that doesn’t change how I felt after visiting Sicily , because all I wanted was more time to experience everything I’d yet to see. Yes, you could craft a quicker itinerary that covers the best places to go in Sicily, but I tend to travel with a little less focus.

Ask me what the most beautiful place in Sicily is and I’d have a hard time deciding. The same goes for what to do in Sicily, because we all have our own interests and preferences, and there’s just so much you can do around the island. Answering the question of where to stay in Sicily is one that I can do and have already kind of done.

What I can share with you here is a selection of things I think you may benefit from knowing. Some may seem obvious, but if I were visiting Sicily for the first time all over again, these are the things I’d want to know.

Table of Contents

1. Different to Mainland Italy

One of the wonderful things about spending time travelling in Italy is that you realise just how different each part of the country is. That’s definitely the case with Sicily. I constantly found myself thinking “I’ve never seen anything like this in Italy before” which says it all really, doesn’t it?

Many of the reasons why Sicily is so special I’ll cover in more detail below. But they follow the usual lines of history, food, culture etc. One of my favourites though is the architecture, which I know isn’t something that will excite others in the same way. But look at the sheer beauty of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO-recognised region full of Baroque architecture, with places like Noto and Ragusa , and you’ll see what I mean.

My point though is that if you’re expecting or dismissing Sicily because “you’ve done Italy” then stop that thinking right now. Because Sicily is definitely its own thing.

2. How to Get There

As with most of Italy, you shouldn’t have much trouble getting to Sicily to start your trip. The island is extremely well connected with the rest of the country, not to mention Europe in general. Since we are talking about an island, your two options to get there are either flying in or taking a ferry, although taking the train is technically a third way to go.

For most tourists, flying is going to be the most obvious solution to get there. Sicily has three airports to fly to: Catania, Palermo and Trapani. Budget carriers and national airlines fly to all three, but Catania and Palermo are the bigger two. Flights to Sicily can be insanely cheap sometimes which was part of the reason I finally went when I did.

Next, we have ferries to Sicily, both domestically and internationally. Naturally, there are ferries to the mainland, with Naples and Villa San Giovanni the main places to go from. The latter sits on the narrow Strait of Messina between Sicily and the mainland and is the quickest sea crossing if you don’t like boats. But there are also ferries to neighbouring islands and even a ferry to Malta if you want to combine Sicily and Malta in a trip.

As for the train, you can buy train tickets from the mainland direct to Sicily. What happens is that the train actually uses a special train ferry to cross the Strait of Messina, which honestly sounds like a special experience.

3. Getting About

One bit of hard won advice from my time travelling in Sicily is that getting around isn’t as easy as it seems. I used public transport in Sicily throughout my trip to get about and ran into plenty of troubles along the way. In hindsight, having a rental car in Sicily would have helped, although that naturally brings the challenge of driving in Italy. Alternatively, you could cede control completely and take a guided tour of Sicily .

No matter though, as now I get to warn you about what its like taking trains and buses here. And really, I never had any trouble with the trains in Sicily . Trains are mostly useful for travel along the coasts, but not so much in the island’s interior. In some parts they’re also not super fast due to the weaving, winding routes they need to take through the hilly terrain.

No, it’s the bus travel where things got tricky. At first it was just people pushing ahead of me in the line so that there was no room by the time I stepped aboard. The real problem though is trying to reliably plan your bus trips. Buses in Sicily belong to a mess of different companies, many of which you can’t get accurate timetables of online.

Timetables for large companies like Interbus are pretty good, but for smaller regional ones you can forget about it. And I’m not just talking about online here. I got given completely wrong information twice trying to get from Piazza Armerina to Agrigento, once from the actual bus ticket office. My advice is to try to stick to major routes as much as possible and seek local help otherwise.

4. Fantastic Sicilian Food

If you’re looking for a reason to visit Sicily that’s not simply “why not?”, then may I suggest its awesome cuisine?

That’s usually one of the reasons people go to Italy anyway, but Sicilian cuisine is its own thing and it is phenomenal. Even if you’ve spent a month travelling through mainland Italy, you’re bound to find new and exciting things to try when you reach Sicily.

And with so many Sicilian specialities to experience, my advice is to dive right in. Don’t make the mistake of just eating the typical dishes of Italy while in Sicily because you’ll be missing out if you do. I personally spent much of my time in Syracuse and Catania experiencing the food scene and was far from disappointed. Another way to discover the food scene is with a food and wine tour like this one out in the countryside.

Now, some Sicilian dishes are better known internationally than others. Arancini are a quite well-known dish in other countries and cannoli are the island’s most famous sweet treat. But even these recognizable foods come in a dizzying array of styles and flavours; especially all the types of stuffing you can find in arancini from one place to the next.

Then there are the less instantly recognizable foods found across Sicily that you’ll soon find are just as common, like Pasta alla Norma with its tasty eggplant sauce and granita, the refreshing icy dessert you can get from kiosks everywhere. One of my favourite new experiences was trying busiate pasta in Agrigento, a spiral pasta from Sicily I’ve yet to find elsewhere.

5. Remarkable History

Followers of the blog will know that learning about a destination’s history is one of my favourite things to do. And I have to say that Sicily is just awesome for those interested in history. The island has had such a layered, diverse past and that means you get to see all sorts of historical sites when you travel in Sicily.

Sicily’s notable history stretches back thousands of years. With the incredible ruins of Agrigento , you can learn about the island’s settlement by ancient Greeks. Over at the mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, you can learn more about Sicily during the time of the Romans. At Syracuse, you can see both . The Arabs and Normans defined the medieval history of Sicily and many of the best places to visit in Palermo are tied to that era.

Then there are the destinations that feel trapped in time, offering a window into what 17th-18th century Sicily was like. For that, you need to head to the Val di Noto, which I mentioned earlier. These may be the most picturesque places to explore that era, but trust me there are many more. The point is you’ll be spoiled by the end of your Sicily trip, that’s for sure.

6. Surprising Mountains

With its location right at the heart of the Mediterranean, you might think that the beaches in Sicily are the island’s best natural asset. And if that’s your kind of thing and what you want from your trip then you won’t be disappointed. But in my books, the most interesting natural attraction of Sicily is its mountains.

Certainly, the most famous mountain on the island is Mt Etna . The volcano near the popular tourist town of Taormina is one of the best places to go in Sicily, even if I chose not to during my visit. Its looming, sometimes smouldering, presence adds so much drama to the island’s east coast. I can’t wait to see it up close one day.

But a place that equally appeals to me now and is far less well-known is the Madonie Mountains. These mountains sit within a natural park at the centre of the island’s north coast. While planning my trip to Sicily I didn’t even know about them, and by the time fellow travellers had recommended them as a great place to go hiking it was too late to change plans.

Then I chatted with a man with family near there who said how beautiful it is there. A little bit of research later and the mountains are very high on my list for next time. This is why I mention them now, so you can know before you go and maybe factor them into your plans.

7. Sicilian Pride

While it shouldn’t necessarily be a surprise, it’s hard to describe just how proud of Sicily the people of the island seem to be. You definitely notice the fervent pride in Sicily and everything Sicilian, even when doing the most generic touristy things. Sicilian flags are everywhere, as are the island’s distinctive ceramics, but that’s just the start.

It truly becomes clear when you talk to Sicilians about Sicily. During my stay in Piazza Armerina I met and dined with an Australian/Sicilian guide who been showing tourists around for decades. I was genuinely taken aback by just how much he raved about how great everything to do with Sicily was, from its heritage and culture to the produce and the people. Even when he talked about the dark history of the past related to the Sicilian Mafia, he found positives to focus on.

Were he talking about a country, you’d call it unwavering patriotism. But Sicily isn’t a country, at least nowadays. But I’ve never really experienced this sort of regional pride in a place without a strong modern separatist movement like Catalonia.

I personally find that sort of intense, passionate pride hard to swallow because everywhere has flaws, but it did make me reflect on everything I’d seen and realise just how strong the Sicilian identity is. And what is more interesting when you travel than exploring the identity of a destination?

Resources for Visiting Sicily

• Getting There: To find the cheapest and most useful flights to Sicily make sure to check Kayak .
• Accommodation: Here you can find hotels, apartments and guesthouses throughout Sicily .
• Tours: There are countless day trips and sightseeing tours available for exploring Sicily, plus longer Sicily tours .
• Car Hire: If you want to travel more independently, consider renting a car to drive yourself about.
• Managing Money: The Wise card can be a great option for getting cash out and making purchases .
• Travel Medical Insurance: Need coverage in case you get sick, or injured, or your luggage gets lost? Get a quote for Nomad Insurance from SafetyWing .

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sicily during your travels? What advice do you have for people spending 7 days in Sicily or longer? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

You may also like

Where to stay in sicily to get the most from..., 6 reasons why lucca is my favourite city in italy..., 5 reasons why you really must visit palermo, sicily, 5 tips to make the most of visiting ragusa, sicily, how to spend a day in castellammare del golfo, sicily, how to make the most of a day trip to....

Sicily has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. I go every summer for the food, people and beaches. You can stay a month and not see everything there is to experience on this beautiful island.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Mount Etna eruption: Is it safe to travel to Sicily and are flights cancelled?

T ravellers using Catania airport - Sicily’s largest - are facing severe delays and cancellations thanks to Mount Etna’s latest eruption.

The active volcano, Europe’s highest, has seen significantly increased activity over the past week. Stromboli, on the nearby Aeolian island, could also erupt imminently.

The Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia in Catania has reported that ash emanating from Mount Etna has reached a staggering 4.35 kilometres into the air.

As a result, much of the airspace near the volcano was forced to close to passenger aircraft. That means that the number of arrivals at Catania airport is much lower than usual - at just five per hour.

The airport has said normal service will resume at 3pm local time.

What kind of disruption has Mount Etna’s eruption caused to air traffic?

So far, at least 90 outbound and inbound flights have been cancelled at Catania airport, disrupting around 15,000 passengers.

Ryanair alone have been forced to cancel 42 flights - the highest of any airline.

Easyjet have been affected too: “We’re sorry that your flight has been cancelled,” they told passengers, “This is because volcanic activity in CTA [Catania] is causing restrictions to the areas in which aircraft are permitted to fly.”

A large chunk of travellers have found themselves on diverted flights, with many arriving at Palermo, the airport which serves Sicily’s capital and a 4-hour drive from Catania.

Is Mount Etna likely to continue erupting?

Italy’s Civil Protection Department has warned that this is not a one-off event.

“Italy, together with Iceland, has the greatest concentration of active volcanoes in Europe and is one of the first in the world for the number of inhabitants exposed to volcanic risk,” they said in a statement, “Active or potentially active volcanoes are situated in southern Italy with varying degrees of hazard.”

The department also advised locals and tourists alike to “follow the civil protection authorities’ instructions transmitted by radio, TV, in the daily press, on the internet and by the various toll-free numbers that will be set up.”

They also instructed people, during eruptions, to not enter forbidden areas as “it is dangerous to approach the crater area even if there is no eruptive activity as sudden explosive phenomena or gas emissions are always possible.”

Catania’s Mayor, Enrico Trantino, also issued an order banning local people from using two-wheeled forms of transport for 48 hours. He also set a speed limit of 30 km/h because of the potential danger of driving on ash.

Italy issues red alert over Sicily’s nearby Stromboli volcano

Etna is not the only volcano causing issues for Sicily.

Late on Thursday, Italy's Civil Protection Department issued a red alert for a possible eruption of the nearby Stromboli volcano, raising the potential threat level from moderate to severe.

Stromboli is on one of the Aeolian islands, located off the north-east of Sicily, and popular tourist destinations especially in the summer.

The ruling came after the department and local leaders assessed “rapid developments” concerning Stromboli volcano.

There have been reports of lava spilling into the sea and generating a two-kilometre high plume of smoke.

In a press release, Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported "effusive activity" from a vent 700 metres above sea level.

The INGV added that "the seismic signal has remained at a very high level” and authorities have warned the situation could deteriorate.

Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said Stromboli was "under surveillance" and confirmed that evacuation plans were in place in case of emergency and that the fire brigade had preemptively doubled the number of firefighters on the island.

Videos and images of Stromboli showed a dramatic giant ash cloud rising out of the sea.

On the neighbouring island of Lipari, the mayor has put in place precautionary measures to protect the small community’s inhabitants.

Stromboli is a diminutive island - just 12 square kilometres in area and 924 metres high.

It’s made up of the top of a volcano which is largely underwater, but is one of the most active on the planet.

Despite the fact that it has been erupting almost continuously for the past 90 years, it’s a tourist hotspot.

The INGV says it is one of very few volcanoes in the world with almost continuous activity.

Stromboli last erupted in 2022, with no casualties. A 2019 eruption, though, resulted in the death of a 35-year-old hiker from Messina and forced about 30 tourists to jump in the sea for safety.

9 things you cannot miss on your next trip to Sicily

Mar 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Experience all the beauty and history Sicily has to offer with these amazing experiences Giovenda / Shutterstock

Something of a mini-continent, the island of Sicily in Italy ticks most boxes. Adventurer, art lover, beach bum, ruin explorer: this rugged chunk of sun-spun land at the crossroads of the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Mediterranean seas has enticed ancient and modern peoples with its charms since time immemorial. The result: one of Europe's richest and most extraordinary histories, with an unmatched booty of artistic and drop-dead-gorgeous natural treasures. The food and drink's not bad either.

Turquoise cove to ridgetop temple. Byzantine mosaics to chubby-cheeked baroque putti (cherubs). Windswept olive and lemon groves and dry, parched gardens planted with pomegranate, fig and carob trees. Traveling around Sicily might feel like sensory overload on steroids, but it exudes Sicilian dolce far niente (sweet nothing) in buckets. 

July and August are the busiest months, but every month has its own beauty. The very real temptation of simply eating and drinking your way around Sicily aside, here are nine top things to see and do on the island.  

1. Discover Sicily's backstory in a kaleidoscope of UNESCO mosaics

Scantily-clad Olympians, African animals, lepers, deities, mythical monsters, Adam and Eve: the wild stories told by Sicily's Herculean cache of Roman, Byzantine and Arab-Norman mosaics will have you hooked for days. Begin your mosaic mini-tour in the glittering gold cathedral crowning the hilltop Monreale , built for William II in 1184 to upstage grandfather Roger II's magnificent building accomplishments in Cefalù ( Duomo di Cefalù ) and Palermo ( Cappella Palatina ). Continue the mosaic fest in Villa Romana del Casale , a Roman patrician's palatial country pad a couple of hours' drive inland.

2. Adventure up Sicily's "other" volcano on Stromboli

Hiking or mountain biking up the emblematic slopes of massive brooding Mount Etna is a classic. But if you're into a fire-spitting volcano with a primordial village vibe and post-hike pizza with fireworks, hit the less-sung Stromboli – legend says that wind god Aeolus and other mythological deities had a hand in this island's marvelous creation. But a guided trek at sunset from the whitewashed village up charred slopes shows the harsh reality of living next to a volcano, a tempestuous environment ruled by Mother Nature alone. From the smaller volcano's Sciara del Fucco viewpoint at 400m, only accessible with a guide, watch red-hot rocks roll down the lava-charred mountainside into the sea, and then hike back down by torchlight for dinner alfresco at Ristorante Osservatorio Stromboli .

3. Wander ancient ruins in the Valley of the Temples by moonlight

On Sicily's southern Mediterranean coast, Agrigento's Valley of the Temples makes an impression like no other ruins on the island. Strung out along a long rocky promontory where the ancient Greeks built sacred temples as holy beacons for sailors 2500 years ago, the vast archaeological site is prized by UNESCO as one of the world's "most outstanding monuments of Greek art and culture." The magic peaks on summer evenings when the moon casts the ruins in a celestial, iridescent light, and the wind plucks tunes on the columns of ghostly Doric temples.

Planning tip: Sicily's flush of ancient Greek ruins runs deep. Add hilltop Segesta and sea-facing Selinunte , both in western Sicily, to your long weekend itinerary to bag the hat trick.

4. Taste vino with winegrowers on the slopes of Mount Etna

Sun-soaked grapes have always been grown on the island – this is Italy's second-largest wine-producing region after all. But with the exception of sweet dessert wines like Marsala , Sicilian wines are hard to come by outside Sicily. Drink in local viticulture, meet wine growers and swill, sniff and sip wines produced on Mount Etna's fertile slopes along the Strada del Vino dell'Etna (Etna Wine Road). This is not a road at all, but a deliciously scenic train journey peppered with sumptuous villa-wineries along the lower slopes of Europe's largest active volcano.

Planning tip:  The Strada's wine trains depart twice weekly from Riposto, an hour's drive from Catania on the Ionian Coast. Tickets  include a guide and bus transfers to wineries for degustazione (tasting).

5. Splash and snorkel like a 1960s movie star on Isola Bella

Vintage glamour queen Taormina is the springboard for chic sea dips and snorkeling forays in the crystal water that laps the pebble beach on Isola Bella – as bella (beautiful) as its name suggests. The dot of an island, linked by cable car to Taormina (which is perched dramatically on a cliff high above), lured Europe's aristocracy during the days of the Grand Tour and the literati likes of DH Lawrence in the 1920s. Glitzy views of smoking Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea vie for the spotlight during summertime theater performances in its resplendent ancient Greek amphitheater.

Planning tip: Taormina gets packed to bursting in July and August and all but shuts down between November and Easter. April, May, September and October are best.

6. Learn about the Mafia past and present in Palermo

Try to better understand what makes Sicily's disheveled, high-octane capital tick at No Mafia Memorial, a multimedia space in a palazzo on Palermo's main street Corso Vittorio Emanuele that explains Mafiosi and anti-Mafia history. Combine the interesting if unsettling exhibitions with a contemplative walk along the powerful Wall of Legality street mural in rough-and-tumble Il Capo; then snap a selfie on the opera-house steps at Teatro Massimo , where the iconic mafia shooting scene from Francis Ford Coppola's Godfather trilogy was filmed.

7. Admire prehistoric art in a cave on Levanzo

When you tire of beach-hopping by bicycle on the Egadi island of Favignana, swap wheels for water and catch a ferry to pin-prick Levanzo. From its tiny port, motorboats whip along the wave-lashed coast to Grotta del Genovese , a cave hidden high in the hillside that shelters Upper Paleolithic and Neolithic rock art. Etchings of goats, dolphins and donkeys reflect farming practices some 12,000 years ago when a vast plain linked to the two islands. Bookend the torch-lit cave visit with huge, glittering sea views.

Planning tip: Cave visits must be booked online at least 48 hours in advance. Ditto in July and August for Liberty Lines hydrofoils to/from Trapani on "mainland'" Sicily and also Favignana. To continue the rock art theme, stay the night on Favignana in rooms at Giardino dell'Impossible , botanical gardens hewn in labyrinthine rock.

8. Uncover the greatest city of ancient Magna Graecia in Syracuse

To think small town Syracuse in southeast Sicily was the largest city in the ancient world in its heyday – bigger even than Athens and Corinth – is mind-boggling. A near-perfect encapsulation of Sicily's timeless beauty, its "once upon a time" begins in 734 BCE. Split your time between the ancient island-city of Ortygia – where honey-hued medieval streets flow like ribbons down to the sea and open-air food market brim with lunchtime oysters  – and the evocative, citrus-scented ruins of Parco Archeologico della Neapolis .

Planning tip: Bag a golden ticket for theater beneath the stars at Syracuse's supremely well-preserved Greek amphitheater during May-June's Festival del Teatro Greco.

9. Get off-grid on the Aeolian island of Alicudi

Magical and mesmerizing, the Aeolian's second-smallest island feels like a mischievous afterthought on the map. As isolated a place as you'll find in the entire Mediterranean basin, this 5.2 sq km island has no roads – just a relentless succession of time-wizened, volcanic-stone steps staggering mercilessly up to the craggy summit of Monte Montagnola (675m). After you step off the hydrofoil at the sleepy port, simply follow the donkeys and mules uphill – they're the only means of transport on this old-timer island. Post-hike, watch fishermen clean fish and nets, or track down a boatman at sundown to bathe in the peace and tranquility of aperitivo al tramonto (early-evening drinks at sea).

This article was first published Nov 18, 2021 and updated Mar 16, 2024.

Explore related stories

Apr 28, 2022 • 6 min read

Easily reachable by train, bus or e-bike, these top destinations make for delightful day trips from Turin.

Nov 7, 2016 • 6 min read

Jul 10, 2024 • 7 min read

May 24, 2024 • 9 min read

May 23, 2024 • 6 min read

May 17, 2024 • 14 min read

May 7, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 9 min read

How to Get to Sicily

The Italian island of Sicily , the largest island in the Mediterranean, is less than 2 miles from mainland Italy at its closest point. Since Roman times, and as recently as this century, conquerers and politicians have talked about building a bridge across the Strait of Messina, the narrow channel that divides Sicily from the mainland. For now, and for the foreseeable future, there is no land route to Sicily.

But that doesn't mean Sicily is hard to get to. By plane, train, ferry, and even by car, here are all the ways to get to Sicily.

There are four international airports on the island of Sicily. Aeroporto di Catania (CTA) on the east coast and Aeroporto di Palermo (PMO) to the northwest of the island, are far and away the largest and the departure and arrival point for the majority of flights. Trapani–Birgi Airport (TPA) on the west coast and Aeroporto di Comiso (CIY) to the southeast are smaller airports served by budget airlines.

There are no direct flights from the US to Sicily, so travelers must change planes, either within Italy or at another airport in Europe.

Catania Airport : At Catania Airport (sometimes written as Aeroporto di Catania-Fontanarossa), major international carriers include Alitalia, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and Swiss Air. The airport is also served by budget carriers Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling. Within Italy, there are regularly scheduled flights, mostly on Alitalia, from Rome, Milan, Bologna, and Verona.

Palermo Airport : Also written as Aeroporto di Palermo Falcone e Borsellino, major carriers to Palermo Airport include Alitalia, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Swiss Air. Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling also fly here. There are regular flights from Rome, Naples, Milan, Venice, Bergamo, and several other Italian cities.

Trapani and Comiso airports: Ryanair offers the majority of flights in and out of Trapani-Birgi Airport, including several from mainland Italy. For Comiso Airport (Aeroporto di Comiso "Pio La Torre"), Ryanair offers flights to and from cities in Europe and Italy. Alitalia also offers a handful of flights.

Note that all airlines reduce their flight schedules in the off-season, and tend to ramp up service from May through September.

By Ferry (Including Car & Train)

If you're not flying to Sicily, then you'll have to take a ferry even if you're driving or taking the train from elsewhere in Europe. There are dozens of ways to reach Sicily by ferry, though only the passage across the Strait of Messina (accessed through Villa San Giovanni can be done quickly. Other mainland points of departure for ferries include Rome-Civitavecchia, Naples, Salerno, Reggio-Calabria and, more seasonally, Livorno and Genoa. Note that ferry frequency — and prices — will increase in the high summer season.

Routes Departing From Villa San Giovanni

From Villa San Giovanni, the closest mainland port to Sicily, several ferries a day depart for Messina, just across the Strait of Messina.

• Passengers on foot can book with BluJet , a division of Trenitalia, the Italian national rail system. The 20-minute ride on a high-speed ferry boat costs 2.50 euros one way. Boats land at Messina Marittima, adjacent to Messina Centrale train station, from where travelers can reach all of Sicily by train or bus, or walk or catch a cab to their hotel in Messina.
• Passengers with cars can book passage on the Caronte & Tourist Ferry , which takes about 30 minutes (though wait and loading times are not included). You drive your car directly onto the ferry, then exit the car and wait on deck or in one of the passenger lounges during the trip. From Messina, coastal roads connect to the rest of Sicily. One-way tickets start around 37 euros for a standard-sized automobile. Prices will go up during the summer, especially on weekends.
• Passengers on trains may be stunned to watch as entire multi-car trains are loaded directly into massive ferries at Villa San Giovanni for the one-hour crossing to Messina. They have the option of staying in their train car during the crossing, or going up on deck. Note that this method of travel is valid only on Trenitalia Intercity trains that are continuing on to Siracusa (Syracuse) or Palermo. Otherwise, train passengers take the train to Villa San Giovanni, the walk-on ferry to Messina, and then pick up another train in Messina.

Other Ferry Routes

• From Rome-Civitavecchia: Ferries run by GNV (Grandi Navi Veloci) depart a few times a week from Rome's port city to either the Port of Palermo or Termini-Imerese, 20.5 miles (33 kilometers) east of Palermo. From the Port of Palermo, you can catch a bus to either the historic center or to Palermo Centrale train station. Termini-Imerese is more convenient if you have a car and want to immediately set out for other parts of Sicily, rather than stopping in Palermo. The trip to either city takes about 14 hours.
• From Naples: GNV and Tirrenia offer regular departures for the 10-hour ferry ride from Naples/Porto di Napoli to Palermo. Liberty Lines offers seasonal, 16-hour service from Naples to Milazzo.
• From Salerno: Located south of the Amalfi Coast, Salerno is also a 10-hour ferry ride to Palermo. Grimaldi Lines offers the route all year round.
• From Reggio-Calabria: Liberty Lines offers passenger ferry service from Reggio-Calabria to Messina, as well as the Eolie Islands, and from the small mainland port of Vibo Valentia for Milazzo and the Eolies.
• From Livorno and Genoa: Grimaldi Lines offers seasonal passage to Palermo from the ports of Livorno or Genoa, on Italy's northerly coast. The trip takes 20 to 21 hours.

Tips for a Smooth Ferry Ride

• For a ferry ride of longer than a few hours, we recommend you pay extra to book, at minimum, a poltrona, which is a reserved, indoor seat. Unreserved outside seating is limited, and if it's rainy, windy or there are rough seas, it's also not very comfortable.
• For overnight voyages, consider paying extra for a cabin with a bed. If you don't want to splurge on a cabin, at least reserve a poltrona.
• High-speed ferries are often hydrofoils. These can be bumpy rides even on days when the sea is calm. So if you suffer from motion sickness, keep this in mind.

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Tuscany

Where to Go on Italy's Mediterranean Coast

Naples International Airport Guide

Top Italian Islands for Your Next Vacation

Florence Airport Guide

Italo High-Speed Trains

How to Travel From Rome to Naples by Train, Plane, Bus, or Car

Tuscany Guide: Planning Your Trip

Tunisia Travel: Visas, Health, Transport, & More

How to Travel from Rome to the Cinque Terre by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

Mediterranean Cruise Maps

A Guide to Airports Near Milan

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

A Travel Guide to Baia Sardinia and the Emerald Coast

Sicily closes airport as Etna and Stromboli volcanoes erupt

Streets of Catania’s city centre covered in black ash, slowing traffic, as residents try to clean up.

Italy’s Mount Etna and the smaller Stromboli volcano spewed hot ash and lava, raising alert levels on the Mediterranean island of Sicily and forcing a temporary shutdown of the airport in Catania, disrupting flights.

Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has seen intense activity in recent days, lighting up the sky near Catania, while Stromboli off the northern Sicilian coast spilled lava into the sea.

Keep reading

Photos: indonesia’s tenggerese pray for rain amid climate change threat, six killed in ecuador as heavy rains trigger landslide, ‘a continuous curtain of fire’: lava spurts from iceland volcano.

“The runway at Catania Airport is unusable due to volcanic ash fall: both arrivals and departures are suspended,” the company managing the airport said in a statement on Friday.

Flights should resume at 3pm (13:00 pm GMT), it said, asking travellers to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

Ash plumes shot up into the sky as high as 4.5km (2.7 miles), the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) wrote on X on Thursday.

Footage shared on social media on Friday showed the streets of central Catania covered in thick layers of black ash, slowing traffic.

Residents and authorities moved in to clean up the city after streets and cars were smothered in ash.

Mount Etna, a 3,324-metre (10,905ft) volcano, has erupted multiple times in recent decades.

Over the past few days, its crater had started spitting out fountains of scorching lava and releasing ash that landed on Catania airport.

Millions of passengers transit every year through Catania’s airport, which connects them to eastern Sicily, among Italy’s most popular tourist destinations.

Stromboli ‘under surveillance’

Italy’s Civil Protection Department also issued a red alert, its highest, for Stromboli, warning the situation could deteriorate.

Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said Stromboli was “under surveillance”, adding that authorities were making sure evacuation plans were ready in case of emergency.

The fire brigade said they had doubled the number of firefighters on the island, also named Stromboli, which is just off Sicily.

Mount Stromboli, which rises to 920 metres (3,018ft) and has a base reaching 2,000 metres (6,560ft) below sea level, is known for being one of the only nearly constantly active volcanoes in the world, according to the vulcanology agency.

In 2019, one person was killed and a second injured in a Stromboli eruption.

Massive drought in Italy threatens to destroy Sicilian tourism

• Sicily, Italy, is in a state of emergency over the worst drought the country has seen in 20 years.
• Water rations are so strict that hotel and inn owners are turning tourists away.
• As a tourism-driven economy, the drought is threatening the financial stability of the region.

An extreme drought in Sicily is the worst the Italian island has seen in 20 years, and it's so bad it's threatening the region's economy.

The drought in Sicily has caused the local climate to mirror that of Ethiopia, UK outlet Sky News reported, causing a state of emergency, drying up lakes, and prompting officials to implement strict water rations.

Related stories

The rations are so strict — with some residents being asked to cut their water use by as much as 45% — it's prompting some hotel and inn owners to turn guests away because they cannot guarantee showers will run or toilets will flush, CNN reported.

"Rightly, people ask us for reassurances before coming, but we don't know what to say," Giovanni Lopez, who owns the Le Cinque Novelle bed and breakfast (B&B) in central Agrigento, told CNN. "The situation is quickly impacting the entire tourist accommodation sector, which risks serious economic consequences, given that tourism is a sector almost everyone in this part of Sicily relies on."

The economic impact is impossible to ignore — between empty reservoirs and livestock that have died due to the drought, CNN reported the region has lost more than a billion Euros, or nearly 1.1 billion USD.

Representatives for Italy's Ministry of Tourism did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. However, CNN reported that Italy's tourism minister, Daniela Santanchè, suggested in April that Sicily should attempt to expand its tourism beyond summer to address the region's worsening water crisis.

In addition to the drought, numerous regions of Italy, including Sicily, are also facing population destabilization, prompting officials to offer incentives to relocate to its rural regions in hopes that new residents will help stabilize the population levels.

Watch: Garbage and floodwater fill up streets in Italy, disrupting tourist season

• Main content