Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a top choice for those who love road trips. With its diverse scenery, stunning shores, ancient towns, and charming hamlets, this region offers an exciting journey across different eras and traditions. Below is the plan for your ideal tour of Sicily by car.
Day 1-2: Palermo
The journey starts, naturally, in Palermo—the energetic heart of Sicily—where Baroque buildings, bustling food markets, and stunning historical sites converge. Be sure to meander down its winding lanes and explore the opulent attractions.
Palazzo dei Normanni
And then there’s the Palatine Chapel, along with the renowned Palermo Cathedral, which showcases a distinctive mix of Norman, Gothic, and Arab architectural influences. Additionally, be sure not to skip a trip to the street food markets like Ballarò, where you can sample authentic Sicilian street cuisine, including
the famous
arancini
(stuffed rice balls) and
cannolo
.
Before departing from Palermo, we strongly suggest making time to explore the adjacent town of Monreale. The cathedral here, adorned with golden mosaics and featuring a tranquil cloister, stands as a remarkable example of Norman architecture in Sicily.
Interested in discovering Sicily? These articles can assist you with planning your visit:
- What should you try eating in Sicily? Here are some of the top Sicilian delicacies.
- Sicily: 4 Hotels to Reserve During an Escape on the Island
- When is the ideal time to travel to Sicily?
Day 3: Cefalù
A short drive of about an hour from Palermo brings you to the beautiful village of Cefalù, nestled between the Tyrrhenian Sea and a striking cliff. This town is renowned for its enchanting historic center with winding lanes and particularly for its grand Norman cathedral, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Following your stroll through the stone-paved lanes and after sipping a cup of coffee in the central plaza, unwind at one of Cefalù’s sandy shores. For those seeking an adventure, scaling up to the peak of the Rocca offers a breathtaking vista of both the town and the ocean below.
Day 4-5: Taormina
Next, proceed eastward to one of
The top spots in Sicily, such as Taormina, attract many visitors.
Situated atop a hill, this town provides stunning vistas of the Ionian Sea and, when visibility allows, a grand sight of Mount Etna, the renowned active volcano of Europe. Known for its well-preserved Greco-Roman theater, Taormina boasts both significant historical value and panoramic views of the mountain and the ocean.
Wander through the town’s public gardens, then make your way to the beachside.
Baia di Mazzarò
Or use the cable car for exploration.
Isola Bella
, a tiny safeguarded island connected to the shore by a slender sandy isthmus.
Day 6: Mount Etna
No journey to Sicily would be finished properly without
exploring Mount Etna
One of the planet’s most vigorous volcanoes awaits your visit. Head from Taormina towards Etna Park via the available roads. Within this park, you have two options: explore the craters through various hiking paths or opt for an adrenaline-pumping guided tour up to the peak if you’re seeking adventure. Atop this volcanic giant, marvel at spectacular vistas featuring moon-like terrains, historic lava streams, and sweeping panoramas of the Sicilian coast.
As you make your descent, take a detour to one of the numerous wineries nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, offering an opportunity to sample distinctive vintages cultivated in the region’s nutrient-abundant volcanic earth.
Day 7-8: Exploring Syracuse and the Isle of Ortigia
Proceed further south into Syracuse, a city brimming with historical significance within Sicily. Established by ancient Greeks, this destination boasts an abundance of archaeological riches. Be sure not to miss the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, which features a Greek theater along with vestiges from Roman times.
Nonetheless, it is the island of Ortigia, which serves as the historical heart of Syracuse, that draws the majority of tourists. This small treasure is teeming with vibrant plazas, cozy cafes, quaint lanes, and landmarks like the Syracuse Cathedral, constructed atop an old Greek temple. Ortigia also offers a delightful experience for those who wish to wander along its harbors and savor an ice cream as the sunset paints the sky above the ocean.
Day 9: The Valley of the Temples located in Agrigento
When heading west, make sure to visit the remarkable Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, which stands out as one of the most impressive archaeological sites globally, featuring exceptionally well-maintained Greek temples. Notable among them is the Temple of Concord, a stunning example of ancient architectural prowess.
The valley is enchanting, particularly during sundown when the temples light up, casting a nearly surreal ambiance.
Day 10: Scalata ai Turchi
Lastly, as you conclude your road trip, make sure to visit the renowned Scala dei Turchi, situated close to Agrigento. This pristine white limestone formation, eroded by the seas, descends towards the water in steps, forming an impressive vista.
At this location, you have the option to swim in the vivid blue waters or just relax on the pristine white rocks while taking in the scenery.
