Scenic Italy Road Trip from Pozzallo: Exploring Sicily and Southern Italy

Day 1: Pozzallo start and local discovery

Pozzallo, Italy on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar del Corso

Enjoy traditional Sicilian pastries and coffee at this popular local café to start your day with authentic flavors.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Pozzallo Waterfront and Marina

Stroll along Pozzallo’s scenic marina to admire the Mediterranean views and vibrant fishing boats, perfect for relaxed morning vibes.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Chiesa Madre Santa Maria delle Grazie

Tour the main church of Pozzallo which boasts beautiful baroque architecture and local history exhibits.
Free, 0h45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Il Rivo

Savor fresh seafood dishes with a modern twist, featuring locally sourced ingredients in a cozy environment.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Drive to Syracuse (approx. 1 hour)

Head northeast along the coast to the historic city of Syracuse for sightseeing the next day.
EUR10 Toll and fuel approx., 1h

3:30pm

Check in at Hotel Athena

Settle into this comfortable hotel located near Ortigia island to be ready for exploration.
EUR80, 0h30m

4:00pm

Late afternoon walk on Ortigia Island

Discover the charming streets, fountains, and piazzas of this UNESCO World Heritage site until sunset.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria del Centro

Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine with specialties like pasta alla Norma in this well-loved trattoria.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Syracuse cultural sightseeing

Syracuse, Italy on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caseificio Borderi

Taste light breakfast options including fresh organic cheeses and pastries in a historic setting.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Archaeological Park of Neapolis

Explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the impressive Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, and the Ear of Dionysius. Open 8:30am-7:00pm.
EUR12, 2h

11:30am

Visit the Cathedral of Syracuse

Tour the cathedral that integrates Doric temple ruins into its structure, showcasing layers of history in Ortigia.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Osteria del Vecchio Ponte

Enjoy traditional Sicilian dishes with fresh seafood in a welcoming atmosphere near the water.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Relax at Fonte Aretusa Fountain and seafront

Spend time at this historic freshwater spring and soak up the views along the seafront promenade.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Drive to Taormina (approx. 1.5 hours)

Travel north to the stunning hilltop town of Taormina, famed for its ancient theatre and views of Mount Etna.
EUR15 Toll and fuel approx., 1h30m

5:00pm

Check in at Hotel Villa Schuler

Settle into a charming hotel offering panoramic views and easy access to town attractions.
EUR90, 0h30m

5:30pm

Explore Corso Umberto

Stroll along the main pedestrian street lined with boutiques, cafes, and spectacular vistas.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante La Griglia

Dine on grilled Sicilian specialties paired with local wines in a cozy setting with a welcoming ambiance.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Mount Etna and Catania day trip

Taormina and Catania, Italy on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast at Hotel Villa Schuler

Fuel up with a continental breakfast included in your stay before heading out for the day.
Included, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Mount Etna

Travel to the base of Europe’s largest active volcano to begin your guided excursion.
EUR15 fuel, 1h15m

9:15am

Guided hike and cable car to Mount Etna summit area

Join a guided tour that includes cable car and short hike to the volcanic craters for breathtaking views. Guided tours run from 9am to 3pm. Tickets approx. EUR60.
EUR60, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Rifugio Sapienza

Enjoy a hearty meal at the mountain hut with spectacular views, perfect to relax after your hike.
EUR20, 1h

1:45pm

Drive to Catania

Head to the nearby vibrant city known for its Baroque architecture and volcanic black-sand beaches.
EUR10 fuel, 1h

2:45pm

Visit Piazza Duomo and Catania Cathedral

Admire the ornate façade and Elephant Fountain in the lively main square, open for casual visits any time.
Free, 1h

3:45pm

Explore Via Etnea for shopping and cafes

Walk this bustling street lined with shops and stop for a coffee or gelato at one of the many cafes.
EUR5, 1h

5:00pm

Drive back to Taormina

Return to Taormina to relax after a full and active day.
EUR10 fuel, 1h

6:00pm

Rest and refresh at hotel

Take a break before dinner to enjoy the comfortable hotel amenities.
Included, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Al Saraceno

Indulge in casual Sicilian pizzas and seafood specialties in this friendly, well-rated spot.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 4: Agrigento and Valley of the Temples

Agrigento, Italy on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Grab a quick, energizing breakfast before the long drive to Agrigento.
Included, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Agrigento

Embark on approximately a 2.5-hour drive southwest toward Agrigento.
EUR25 toll and fuel, 2h30m

10:00am

Visit Valley of the Temples

Explore one of Sicily’s most famous archaeological sites with stunning Greek temples; open 8:30am-7:00pm.
EUR15, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria dei Templi

Dine on traditional Sicilian recipes close to the archaeological area, perfect to soak in local tastes.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Agrigento historic center

Walk the charming streets, visit the Cathedral of San Gerlando, and admire panoramic views.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Drive to Ragusa

Travel east to Ragusa, a city famous for its baroque old town, about 1.5 hours away.
EUR15 fuel, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check in at Hotel Palazzo Failla

Stay in a historic baroque palace conveniently located near Ragusa Ibla.
EUR85, 0h30m

5:30pm

Evening stroll in Ragusa Ibla

Explore narrow streets and baroque churches in this UNESCO-listed quarter with a magical atmosphere at dusk.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Duomo

Savor award-winning Sicilian cuisine at this Michelin-starred restaurant known for inventive dishes.
EUR70, 2h
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Day 5: Exploring Ragusa and surroundings

Ragusa, Italy on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Sicilia

Start your day with famous Sicilian pastries and granita at this beloved local institution.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Ragusa Ibla Gardens

Enjoy peaceful strolls through Giardino Ibleo with its beautiful plantings and views over the valley.
Free, 1h

10:15am

Tour the Cathedral of San Giorgio

Discover this stunning example of Sicilian baroque architecture that dominates Ragusa Ibla.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Drive to Modica (20 minutes)

Short trip to a nearby town famous for its chocolate and baroque architecture.
EUR5 fuel, 0h20m

11:50am

Explore Modica and chocolate tasting

Visit historic churches and sample artisanal chocolate that follows an ancient Aztec recipe.
EUR10, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto

Enjoy traditional Sicilian sweets and savory dishes in this historic chocolate shop and eatery.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Ragusa

Head back to your hotel to relax or explore more of Ragusa at your leisure.
EUR5 fuel, 0h20m

4:00pm

Optional: Visit Donnafugata Castle

Tour this romantic 14th-century castle 15 minutes from Ragusa with extensive grounds, open 9am-7pm on weekdays.
EUR10, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Dei Sapori Perduti

Dine on homemade Sicilian dishes focusing on local, seasonal ingredients in a quaint setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Return to Pozzallo via beaches

Ragusa to Pozzallo, Italy on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Palazzo Failla

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast onsite before departing for coastal exploration.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Sampieri Beach

Head southeast about 30 minutes to one of Sicily’s beautiful sandy beaches for some morning relaxation.
EUR5 fuel, 0h30m

9:30am

Relax at Sampieri Beach

Swim or sunbathe on this serene stretch of coastline with calm waters and picturesque views.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Drive to Pozzallo (30 minutes)

Return to Pozzallo in time for lunch and easy ahead of your departure day.
EUR5 fuel, 0h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Lido Azzurro Pozzallo

Enjoy fresh seafood plates and Sicilian salads right by the beach in Pozzallo.
EUR25, 1h30m

1:30pm

Leisurely afternoon on Pozzallo beach

Spend the afternoon on Pozzallo's sandy beach, soaking in sun and sea air before the trip ends.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Explore Pozzallo town center

Wander historic streets, do some last-minute shopping, or grab an espresso before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Acquamarina

Finish your trip with a delicious meal featuring Sicilian specialties and beautiful sea views.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Departure from Pozzallo

Pozzallo, Italy on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar del Corso

Enjoy a final peaceful breakfast in Pozzallo with fresh pastries and coffee.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Prepare for departure

Pack up and check out from your accommodation, ensuring your car is ready for the journey home or onward travel.
Included, 1h
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