14-Day Relaxing Itinerary from Athens to Sicily, Italy

  • Day 1: Palermo
    Arrive at Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO)
    30 minutes (24 km) from the city center

    Begin your trip in Palermo, the vibrant capital city of Sicily. Lose yourself in the city's chaotic markets, marvel at the Byzantine mosaics in the Palatine Chapel, and indulge in the local cuisine.

  • Day 2-3: Cefalù and Torre Salsa
    1.5 hours (80 km) from Palermo to Cefalù
    2 hours (105 km) from Cefalù to Torre Salsa

    Experience the charming coastal town of Cefalù, stroll on its golden beaches, and visit the magnificent 12th-century Duomo. Take a day trip to Torre Salsa's beautiful nature reserve, known for its pristine beaches and hidden coves.

  • Day 4-5: Agrigento
    1.5 hours (120 km) from Torre Salsa to Agrigento

    Explore the Valley of the Temples, which features ruins of seven Greek temples. Check out the nearby Scala dei Turchi (Stair of the Turks), a stunning white cliff made of soft limestone that slopes into the sea. Take a relaxing stroll around the quaint town of Agrigento and visit the beautiful Monastery of Santo Spirito.

  • Day 6-7: Modica and Ragusa
    2 hours (135 km) from Agrigento to Modica
    20 minutes (13 km) from Modica to Ragusa

    Discover two of Sicily's most picturesque baroque towns. In Modica, admire the ornate architecture, tour the chocolate factories, and enjoy the delicious local foods. In Ragusa, explore the labyrinthine streets and alleys, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Day 8-9: Syracuse and Ortigia
    1 hour and 30 minutes (120 km) from Ragusa to Syracuse

    Visit the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, a large archaeological park with an impressive Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, and many ancient relics. Explore the charming island of Ortigia, which is the historic center of the city, renowned for its picturesque narrow streets, stunning Baroque architecture, and fresh seafood.

  • Day 10-12: Taormina and Mount Etna
    1 hour and 15 minutes (70 km) from Syracuse to Taormina
    1 hour and 30 minutes (60 km) from Taormina to Mount Etna

    Relax in Taormina's luxurious hotels and visit the town's impressive Greek Theatre, which offers a spectacular view of Mount Etna. Take a winding drive up Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes, and hike its slopes to see stunning vistas and old lava fields.

  • Day 13-14: San Vito lo Capo
    2 hours and 45 minutes (250 km) from Mount Etna to San Vito Lo Capo

    Recharge at San Vito Lo Capo, a charming fishing village surrounded by gorgeous sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking mountains that jut dramatically from the sea. Relax on the beach, enjoy the views or hike to the nearby Zingaro Reserve.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • The Cathedral of Monreale (1 hour, free)
  • The Valley of Temples in Agrigento (2.5 hours, €10)
  • Cefalù town (1.5 hours, free)
  • Mount Etna hike (4 hours, €35)
  • Antonino Salinas Regional Archaeological Museum (2 hours, €12)
  • Three-course meal (1.5 hours, €30)
  • Public transportation (price varies depending on city, €1.5-€3 each trip)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €220

Transportation

It is recommended to rent a car or take a private transfer for the duration of the trip to increase flexibility and maximize relaxation. Public transportation between most cities is available but it may be more time-consuming and not as comfortable as driving. Expect busy roads in some cities like Palermo, but most roads have light traffic.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a trip to the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the northern coast of Sicily. If you have less time, you can skip some cities, such as Ragusa or Modica, or visit just one side of Mount Etna instead of going all the way around.

Airports

The main airport serving Sicily is Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), which is located 30 minutes from Palermo. Other airports in the region include Vincenzo Bellini Airport (CTA), which serves Catania, a bustling city on the east coast of Sicily, and Comiso Airport (CIY), located about 30 minutes from Ragusa and Modica, but with limited service to other European cities.

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