Begin your trip in Palermo, a city rich in history and culture. Visit the Palermo Cathedral, a stunning representation of various architectural styles, and then head over to the Palazzo dei Normanni, an impressive palace with medieval roots. End your day with a stroll through the Botanical Garden of Palermo, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Visit the charming coastal town of Cefalù, known for its stunning beaches and medieval architecture. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, which is dominated by a picturesque Norman cathedral. Afterwards, relax on the beach and indulge in some fine Sicilian cuisine at one of the many seafood restaurants.
Head over to Taormina, a beautiful hilltop town with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, which dates back to the 3rd century BC, and then wander through the charming Piazza IX Aprile. Don't forget to visit the impressive Castello di Taormina, a medieval castle with stunning views of the coast.
Explore the historical city of Siracusa, which was once one of the most powerful Greek cities in the Mediterranean. Visit the impressive Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, home to ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a massive amphitheater. Afterwards, take a walk through the picturesque island of Ortigia, which is known for its stunning Baroque architecture.
End your trip in Messina, a bustling port city with stunning views of the Strait of Messina. Visit the Cathedral of Messina, a beautiful example of Norman architecture, and then take a walk through the charming Piazza del Duomo. Before you leave, make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as granita and arancini.
As a luxury traveler, it is recommended to rent a private car for your trip to Sicily. This will allow you to travel comfortably and efficiently between the different locations. A rental car can be booked online and collected at the airport. The total cost of a rental car for 5 days is approximately €400.
If you have more time, consider adding a trip to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, which is home to some of the best-preserved ancient Greek ruins in the world. Alternatively, you can spend more time exploring the charming towns and cities of Sicily. If you have less time, consider skipping Messina and spending an extra day in Taormina, which has plenty to offer visitors.
The main airport in Sicily is the Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), which is located in Catania, approximately 220 km from Palermo. It's also possible to fly into Palermo International Airport (PMO), which is located just outside the city center. Both airports offer a range of international and domestic flights, and there are several transportation options available to get you from the airport to your destination.