4 Days in Rome and 5 Days in Sicily: A Nature Lover's Itinerary

  • Day 1: Villa Borghese Gardens
    30 minutes (3.5 miles) from Fiumicino Airport

    Villa Borghese Gardens is a beautiful and historical park located in the heart of Rome. It features beautiful gardens and fountains, a lake, and museums. Spend a relaxing morning exploring the park and enjoying the outdoors.

  • Day 2: Tivoli Gardens
    1 hour (16 miles) from Rome

    Tivoli Gardens is a stunning example of Italian Renaissance architecture and gardening. The park features beautiful gardens, fountains, and buildings. Spend an entire day strolling through the park and taking in the sights and sounds.

  • Day 3: Mount Etna
    45 minutes (20 miles) from Catania Airport

    Mount Etna is an active volcano located on the east coast of Sicily. Spend a day hiking or taking a guided tour of the volcano and its lava fields. Make sure to check the volcano's activity level before going.

  • Day 4: Vendicari Nature Reserve
    1 hour (42 miles) from Syracuse

    Vendicari Nature Reserve is a beautiful nature reserve located on the southeast coast of Sicily. Explore the beaches, lagoons, and marshes that make this park unique. Keep an eye out for flamingos and other local wildlife.

  • Day 5: Zingaro Nature Reserve
    1 hour 30 minutes (45 miles) from Palermo Airport

    Zingaro Nature Reserve is a stunning coastal reserve located on the northwest coast of Sicily. Spend a day hiking the trails or exploring the coves and beaches that the park has to offer. The park is home to a variety of sea life, so make sure to bring snorkeling gear.

  • Day 6: Alcantara Gorge
    1 hour (35 miles) from Catania

    The Alcantara Gorge is a natural canyon located on the east coast of Sicily. The canyon was formed by lava flow and features beautiful and unique rock formations. Take a guided tour or hike the trails at your own pace.

  • Day 7: Aci Trezza
    30 minutes (9 miles) from Catania

    Aci Trezza is a small fishing village located on the east coast of Sicily. The town is known for its stunning Faraglioni rock formations and clear waters. Spend a relaxing day at the beach or exploring the town's local culture and cuisine.

  • Day 8: Taormina
    1 hour (34 miles) from Catania

    Taormina is a beautiful town located on the east coast of Sicily. The town is known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean and ancient Greek theater. Spend a day exploring the town's historical sites and shopping in its local boutiques and markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Villa Borghese Gardens (2 hours, free)
  • Tivoli Gardens (7 hours, €14)
  • Mount Etna (6 hours, €65)
  • Vendicari Nature Reserve (4 hours, free)
  • Zingaro Nature Reserve (8 hours, €5)
  • Alcantara Gorge (5 hours, €25)
  • Aci Trezza (6 hours, free)
  • Taormina (8 hours, €10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €119

Transportation

Travelers should consider renting a car to explore Rome and Sicily's many natural attractions. Public transportation is also available but may not be as convenient. The estimated cost of renting a car for eight days is €200-€400. Travel times and distances are included in each day's itinerary.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider spending an extra day at Tivoli Gardens or exploring the city of Rome. If you have less time, consider skipping Alcantara Gorge or Aci Trezza. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and water for each day's activities.

Airports

Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main airport serving Rome and is located 16 miles southwest of the city center. Catania Airport (CTA) is the main airport serving Sicily and is located 2.5 miles southwest of Catania's city center. Palermo Airport (PMO) is another major airport in Sicily, located 19 miles northwest of Palermo's city center.

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