Sicilian Getaway: A 7-Day Exploration of the Island

  • Day 1: Palermo
    30 minutes (24.3 km) from Palermo Airport

    Begin your Sicilian adventure in the heart of the island’s capital - Palermo. This bustling city is home to stunning ancient architecture, a plethora of art-filled churches, and buzzing street markets. Spend your day visiting the Cappella Palatina, a breathtaking chapel inside the Palazzo dei Normanni, and the Quattro Canti, an iconic Baroque square. End your day with a stroll around the Ballarò Market, sampling mouth-watering street food from the vendors.

  • Day 2: Agrigento
    2 hours 30 minutes (138.2 km) from Palermo

    Discover the ruins of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, one of the outstanding archaeological sites in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to centuries BC includes seven temples, city walls and necropolis. While here, also visit the Agrigento Regional Archaeological Museum that highlights the history and treasures of the ancient city.

  • Day 3: Catania
    2 hours (200.9 km) from Agrigento

    On your way to the next city, stop at the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina? The UNESCO site boasts one of the largest collections of well-preserved Roman mosaics dating back to the 4th century. Then head to the ancient coastal city of Catania. Here you can find the stunning Ursino Castle, the vibrant La Pescheria fish market, and the striking Cathedral of Saint Agata.

  • Day 4: Syracuse
    1 hour (68.6 km) from Catania

    Visit one of the most captivating historical and cultural centers in all of Italy when you make your way to the ancient coastal town of Syracuse where its stunning Greek and Roman ruins are the main attraction. Visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park and see the Greek Theater, the Roman Amphitheater and the lush Garden of Paradise. End your day with a night stroll in the charming island of Ortigia where you can admire the stunning baroque architecture, the Cathedral of Syracuse or dine in one of the many seafood restaurants of the area.

  • Day 5: Mt. Etna
    1 hour (56.6 km) from Syracuse

    Visit the stunning Mt. Etna, Italy’s highest and most active volcano. Explore the area either on foot or by taking an impressive off-road jeep adventure. There are a wide range of tours that will take you through the stunning park that surrounds the volcano. Learn about the history and geology of the area and marvel at the stunning views of the Eastern coast.

  • Day 6: Taormina
    50 minutes (51.7 km) from Mt. Etna

    Taormina is an enchanting town perched high on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea. Start your day by visiting the stunning Greek Theatre which is still used today for concerts and events. Then head to the charming Cathedral of Saint Nicholas which offers breathtaking views of the sea. Cap off your visit by taking a stroll along the popular shopping street, Corso Umberto I, filled with artisan shops, local boutiques and restaurants.

  • Day 7: Cefalù
    1 hour 13 minutes (82.6 km) from Taormina

    End your trip on this beautiful island in the picture perfect beach town of Cefalù. This Medieaval town offers a charming contrast of sandy seashore and stunning rock formations. Visit the stunning Lavatoio Medievale di Cefalù, Duomo di Cefalù and stroll down the picturesque lanes of the town, passing artisanal shops and restaurants.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • The Cappella Palatina (1 hour, €12)
  • The Valley of the Temples (3 hours, €10)
  • Villa Romana del Casale (2 hours, €10)
  • The Neapolis Archaeological Park (2 hours, €10)
  • Mt. Etna (4 hours, €80)
  • The Greek Theatre of Taormina (1 hour, €10)
  • The Cathedral of Saint Agata (1 hour, €5)
  • The Cathedral of Saint Nicholas (1 hour, €3)
  • Lavatoio Medievale di Cefalu (30 minutes, €5)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €145

Useful Tips

If you have more time to explore Sicily, consider adding visits to the picturesque town of Ragusa Ibla or the Roman remains of Piazza Armerina. If you have less time, you may want to skip the Greek Theatre of Taormina and instead opt for a relaxing beach day in Cefalù or exploring the street art of Palermo. Remember to always check opening times before visiting, especially for attractions and restaurants that close for afternoon siestas.

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