Sicily by Train: 12-Day Itinerary from Catania to Palermo

Day 1: Exploring Catania

Catania, Italy

8:00AM

Visit Piazza del Duomo

Start your day by exploring the historic Piazza del Duomo, where you can see the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Agatha and the Fountain of the Elephant.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through La Pescheria Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the famous fish market, La Pescheria, and sample some local street food.
Variable, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Giglio

Indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine at Trattoria Giglio, known for its fresh seafood dishes and cozy ambiance.
30 EUR per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ursino Castle

Discover the history of Catania at the Ursino Castle, which houses a museum with art and artifacts from the medieval period.
5 EUR, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Piazza Stesicoro

Unwind at Piazza Stesicoro, a lively square with cafes and shops, perfect for people-watching and enjoying a gelato.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Antica Sicilia

Savor a delightful dinner at Ristorante Antica Sicilia, known for its authentic Sicilian dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
40 EUR per person, 2 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Mt. Etna and Catania

Catania, Italy

9:00AM

Excursion to Mount Etna

Embark on a day trip to Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. Explore the lunar landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views.
60 EUR for guided tour, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Rifugio Sapienza

Dine at Rifugio Sapienza, a restaurant situated on the slopes of Mount Etna, offering panoramic views and delicious Sicilian cuisine.
25 EUR per person, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Giardino Bellini

After returning to Catania, take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Giardino Bellini, a beautiful public garden with exotic plants and fountains.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria U Fucularu

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Trattoria U Fucularu, known for its rustic ambiance and delicious Sicilian specialties.
35 EUR per person, 2 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to Taormina

Taormina, Italy

9:00AM

Visit Ancient Theatre of Taormina

Begin your day by exploring the well-preserved Ancient Theatre of Taormina, offering stunning views of the coast and Mount Etna.
10 EUR, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Nero D'Avola

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Osteria Nero D'Avola, featuring a charming courtyard and a menu of Sicilian and Mediterranean dishes.
40 EUR per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Corso Umberto

Take a leisurely stroll along Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, lined with elegant boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Isola Bella

Unwind at Isola Bella, a picturesque nature reserve with a pebbled beach and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
5 EUR, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante La Griglia

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Ristorante La Griglia, known for its seafood specialties and panoramic terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.
50 EUR per person, 2 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Ortigia

Ortigia, Italy

9:00AM

Visit Temple of Apollo

Start your day with a visit to the Temple of Apollo, an ancient Greek monument located in the heart of Ortigia, showcasing its rich history.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Arethusa Fountain

Discover the charming Arethusa Fountain, surrounded by lush vegetation and connected to Greek mythology, creating a serene atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Oinos Ristorante

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Oinos Ristorante, known for its creative Sicilian cuisine and extensive wine selection.
45 EUR per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Castello Maniace

Discover the impressive Castello Maniace, a medieval fortress overlooking the sea, offering panoramic views and historical insights.
8 EUR, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Piazza del Duomo

Unwind at Piazza del Duomo, a charming square with a mix of architectural styles, including the stunning Syracuse Cathedral.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Don Camillo

Savor a gourmet dinner at Ristorante Don Camillo, offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu of Sicilian and Mediterranean specialties.
50 EUR per person, 2 hours
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Day 5: Exploring More of Ortigia

Ortigia, Italy

9:00AM

Visit Aretusa Park

Start your day with a visit to Aretusa Park, a beautiful green space with lush vegetation, a pond, and a variety of plant species.
5 EUR, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi

Discover the rich history of Sicily at the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi, featuring archaeological exhibits and artifacts.
8 EUR, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Porta Marina

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Porta Marina, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Sicilian dishes, with views of the harbor.
40 EUR per person, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Lungomare Alfeo

Stroll along Lungomare Alfeo, a scenic promenade offering stunning views of the sea and the picturesque coastline of Ortigia.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Wine Tasting at Enoteca Solaria

Indulge in a wine tasting experience at Enoteca Solaria, where you can sample a selection of Sicilian wines in a charming setting.
20 EUR per person, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Materia Prima

Conclude your day with a gourmet dinner at Ristorante Materia Prima, known for its innovative Sicilian cuisine and elegant ambiance.
60 EUR per person, 2 hours
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Day 6: Day Trip to Noto and Ragusa

Noto, Italy

9:00AM

Explore Noto's Baroque Architecture

Begin your day with a walking tour of Noto, known for its stunning Baroque architecture, including the Noto Cathedral and Palazzo Ducezio.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Al Buco

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Trattoria Al Buco, a charming restaurant serving traditional Sicilian dishes in a welcoming setting.
35 EUR per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Travel to Ragusa

Take a scenic train journey to Ragusa, where you can explore the historic center and admire the unique architecture of Ragusa Ibla.
15 EUR, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Ragusa Ibla

Stroll through the charming streets of Ragusa Ibla, known for its picturesque alleys, historic buildings, and panoramic viewpoints.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Duomo

Conclude your day with a gourmet dinner at Ristorante Duomo, located in a historic building and renowned for its creative Sicilian cuisine.
70 EUR per person, 2 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Modica and Agrigento

Modica, Italy

9:00AM

Visit Chiesa di San Pietro

Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Chiesa di San Pietro, a baroque church known for its ornate interior and impressive architecture.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Modica's Chocolate Shops

Take a chocolate tasting tour of Modica, visiting the renowned chocolate shops and savoring the unique flavors of Sicilian chocolate.
20 EUR, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Locanda del Colonnello

Enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch at Locanda del Colonnello, a charming restaurant offering local specialties and warm hospitality.
30 EUR per person, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Travel to Agrigento

Take a scenic train journey to Agrigento, where you can explore the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
20 EUR, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Explore Valley of the Temples

Discover the ancient Greek ruins at the Valley of the Temples, including the iconic Temple of Concordia and Temple of Juno.
10 EUR, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Il Re di Girgenti

Savor a delightful dinner at Il Re di Girgenti, located in the historic center of Agrigento and offering a menu of Sicilian and Italian cuisine.
45 EUR per person, 2 hours
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