9-Day Sicily Itinerary

  • Day 1: Palermo
    Palermo Airport to City Center (40 minutes by car)

    Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is an ancient city filled with fascinating architecture, colorful markets, and delicious street food. Visit the stunning Palermo Cathedral, explore the Capuchin Catacombs, and take a stroll through the Ballarò market for a true taste of Sicilian culture.

  • Day 2: Cefalù
    Palermo to Cefalù (1 hour by train)

    A charming coastal town, Cefalù is perfect for beach lovers and history buffs alike. Visit the Cefalù Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century, and take a dip in the crystal clear waters at the town's beach or go hiking in nearby La Rocca.

  • Day 3: Taormina
    Cefalù to Taormina (3 hours by train)

    With stunning views of Mount Etna, Taormina is a picturesque town with plenty to do. Visit the ancient Greek Theater, stroll through the lovely public gardens, and take a cable car down to one of the local beaches for a day in the sun.

  • Day 4: Mount Etna
    Taormina to Mount Etna (1 hour by car)

    The largest and most active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna is a must-visit attraction when in Sicily. Take a hike to enjoy the epic views of the mountain peak or take a jeep tour to explore its on-site lava caves.

  • Day 5: Syracuse
    Taormina to Syracuse (2 hours by train)

    Home to some of the finest ancient Greek ruins in all of Italy, Syracuse is a history lover’s paradise. Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which includes a massive amphitheater and a Greek theater, and the stunning Greek Temple of Apollo.

  • Day 6: Noto
    Syracuse to Noto (30 minutes by car)

    Known as the "stone garden," Noto boasts a unique baroque style of architecture that has made it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the town’s winding streets, visit the stunning Cathedral of San Nicolò and enjoy a gelato from one of the local shops.

  • Day 7: Modica
    Noto to Modica (40 minutes by car)

    Modica offers visitors an unforgettable taste of Sicilian chocolate, with its rich and creamy treats that are a must-try. Visit the famous Antica Dolceria Bonajuto or the little-known Sabadì chocolate factory, explore the stunning baroque architecture, and don't forget to take a stroll on the lovely Corso Umberto I.

  • Day 8: Agrigento
    Modica to Agrigento (2 hours by car)

    Home to the Valley of the Temples, Agrigento is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sicily. Explore the ancient ruins of the Temples of Concordia and Juno, take a stroll through the lovely Kolymbetra Garden, and visit the Archaeological Museum for a deeper dive into the regional history.

  • Day 9: Palermo
    Agrigento to Palermo (2.5 hours by car)

    Spend your last day in Sicily taking in some final sights and sounds of Palermo. Stroll through the Piazza Pretoria, visit the Chiesa dell'Osservanza, and take in the local street art scene.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Palermo Cathedral (1 hour, free)
  • Capuchin Catacombs (1 hour, €9)
  • Ballarò Market (2 hours, variable costs)
  • Cefalù Cathedral (1 hour, free)
  • La Rocca hike (3 hours, free)
  • Taormina Greek Theater (2 hours, €10)
  • Public Gardens (1 hour, free)
  • Cable car to beach (30 minutes, €2)
  • Mount Etna hike (4 hours, €64)
  • Neapolis Archaeological Park (3 hours, €10)
  • Greek Temple of Apollo (1 hour, €7)
  • Cathedral of San Nicolò (1 hour, free)
  • Sabadì chocolate factory (1 hour, €10)
  • Valley of the Temples (3 hours, €14)
  • Kolymbetra Garden (1 hour, €3)
  • Archaeological Museum (2 hours, €8)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €147

Transportation

Public transportation, such as trains and buses, are widely available throughout Sicily and are a cost-effective way to get around. Car rentals are also available, but keep in mind that driving in some cities, such as Palermo, can be challenging. Taxis and ride-sharing apps, such as Uber or mytaxi, are also available, but can be more expensive.

The estimated travel cost for this itinerary is approximately €200, which includes train tickets, car rentals, and taxi rides.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider a day trip to the Aeolian Islands, a chain of seven islands off the north coast of Sicily that offer stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities. And if you have less time, consider skipping a few destinations or shortening the length of your visit to make the most of your time.

Airports

The main airport serving Sicily is Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), located in Palermo, approximately 35 km from the city center. Another major airport is Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), located in Catania, approximately 5 km from the city center.

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