Explore one of Rome's most iconic structures, the Colosseum, where ancient Romans once gathered to watch gladiator games. Afterwards, visit the nearby Roman Forum, a sprawling plaza filled with ancient ruins and temples where many of Rome's most critical events took place.
Take a guided tour of the Vatican City, the world's smallest country and the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church. Visit the stunning St. Peter's Basilica, home to a wealth of artistic treasures like Michelangelo's Pieta and Bernini's baldacchino.
Explore the bustling streets of Palermo and wander its many markets, taking in the sensory delights of this vibrant city. Visit the Cattedrale di Palermo, a historic church that reflects the many cultures that have shaped Sicily over the centuries.
Take a scenic drive to Taormina, a beautiful hilltop town overlooking the Mediterranean. Explore its ancient Greek theater, the Teatro Antico, which offers stunning views of Mount Etna and the surrounding landscape.
Drive to the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains some of the best-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture in the world. Don't miss the stunning Temple of Concordia, one of the most complete and well-preserved of its kind.
Visit the city of Siracusa, where ancient Greek and Roman ruins dot the landscape. Don't miss the Archaeological Park, which contains the largest Greek theater in the world, along with the famous Ear of Dionysius, a man-made cave with incredible acoustics.
Explore the charming city of Catania and marvel at its Baroque architecture. Visit the Piazza del Duomo, which contains the stunning Cathedral of Saint Agatha and the Fountain of the Elephant, a statue that has become a symbol of the city.
Travelers are encouraged to rent a car to explore Sicily's many attractions, as public transportation can be spotty outside of major cities. Domestic flights between Rome and Palermo are also recommended, with flights averaging around €50 per person and lasting around 50 minutes.
For those with more time, consider adding a day trip to the stunning Amalfi Coast, located just a few hours southeast of Rome. For those with less time, consider cutting out one of the Sicilian cities to make the itinerary more manageable.
Travelers will most likely arrive at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO), located around 20 miles southwest of the city center. Palermo is served by Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), located around 23 miles northwest of the city center.