Begin your Italian adventure in Palermo, where you can explore the bustling city center with its vibrant markets, ornate churches, and impressive museums. Visit the UNESCO-listed Palermo Cathedral and marvel at its striking Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the charming historic district of La Kalsa and visit the vibrant street markets.
Head south to the stunning Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts some of the best-preserved Greek ruins outside of Greece. Be sure to visit the breathtaking Temple of Concordia and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. After exploring the archeological site, take a stroll through the charming medieval town of Agrigento.
Spend the day exploring the ancient Greek ruins of Syracuse, including the stunning Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius, a unique cave-like quarry. Afterward, visit the charming Ortigia Island, the historical center of the city, where you can admire the stunning Baroque architecture and indulge in delicious Sicilian cuisine.
Visit the vibrant port city of Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to some of Sicily's most iconic landmarks, including the Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, and the Ursino Castle. Take a stroll through the bustling fish market and grab a traditional Sicilian snack, "arancini," from one of the street vendors.
Get ready for a breathtaking adventure to one of the most iconic landmarks in Sicily, Mount Etna. Take a guided tour of the active volcano and marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. For a more adventurous experience, take a hiking tour and explore the breathtaking lava fields.
Spend a relaxing day in the charming seaside town of Taormina, located on the east coast of Sicily. Visit the ancient Greek Theater, which offers stunning views of nearby beaches and Mount Etna. Explore the picturesque streets filled with chic boutiques and seafood restaurants, and enjoy a traditional Sicilian dinner at one of the local trattorias.
End your Italian adventure in the charming coastal town of Cefalù, home to a beautiful beach and an impressive cathedral. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque winding streets and alleys, soak up the sun on the beach, and indulge in a final traditional Sicilian meal before heading home.
Getting around Sicily can be done by car or public transport, but for the most convenient experience, renting a car is recommended. A car rental can cost around €200 for a week, and driving to each location is relatively easy, with well-marked roads and highways. Public transport, such as buses and trains, are also available but may be less flexible and comfortable.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Aeolian Islands, a group of stunning volcanic islands located off the coast of Sicily. You can take a ferry or a hydrofoil to reach the islands from mainland Sicily. If you have less time, consider cutting out a day in Cefalu and spending more time in Palermo or Taormina.
The two main airports in Sicily are the Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) in Palermo and the Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) in Catania. PMO is located 32 km from Palermo city center, while CTA is located 4 km from Catania city center.