Authentic Eastern Sicily: A 10-Day Off-the-Beaten-Path Journey from Palermo

Day 1: Arrival and Palermo

Palermo, Sicily on September 28, 2025

5:30pm

Check-in and Rest

Take some time to check into your accommodation and rest after your journey to Palermo.
EUR0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Evening Stroll in Palermo Historic Centre

Explore less touristy streets such as Via Vittorio Emanuele near Piazza San Domenico, for an authentic local vibe.
EUR0, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Osteria Ballarò

Enjoy authentic Sicilian flavours in this restaurant famed for traditional dishes and friendly atmosphere, away from large tourist crowds.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Palermo to Taormina

Palermo to Taormina, Sicily on September 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bar Alba

Try Sicilian pastries and a strong espresso in this local café to start your day.
EUR8, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Taormina

Journey east for approximately 3 hours to the charming town of Taormina, avoiding the coast road to see less crowded inland scenery.
EUR50 (car rental/fuel estimate), 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Don Ciccio

Savour traditional Sicilian dishes with fresh local ingredients in a quiet and intimate setting.
EUR25, 1h15m

2:00pm

Visit Ancient Theatre of Taormina

Explore the historic Greco-Roman theatre with spectacular views, arriving early to avoid crowds. Open 9am-7pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Isola Bella Beach

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at this beautiful pebble beach away from the busiest spots.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Casa Niclodi

Dine on traditional Sicilian seafood and dishes prepared with local ingredients in a friendly atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Taormina to Siracusa

Taormina to Siracusa, Sicily on September 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bam Bar

Taste granita and brioche, a Sicilian delicacy, perfect for a refreshing start.
EUR6, 0h30m

8:30am

Drive to Siracusa

Head south for about 1.5 hours to the ancient city of Siracusa, focusing on Ortigia Island.
EUR20 (fuel estimate), 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Ortigia Island Market and Historic Sites

Visit the local market for fresh produce and artisanal goods, then explore the Duomo and Fountain of Arethusa. Most sites open 9am-7pm.
EUR0, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Foglia

Delight in fresh seafood tapas in a relaxed environment away from crowded tourist areas.
EUR28, 1h15m

2:30pm

Visit Archaeological Park Neapolis

See the ancient Greek theatre, Roman amphitheatre, and Ear of Dionysius in less crowded late afternoon hours. Open 9am-7pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

5:00pm

Wine Tasting at Arianna Occhipinti Winery

Enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive to this organic winery for an intimate tasting experience of Sicilian wines, booking ahead essential.
EUR35, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria da Seby

Savour traditional Sicilian dishes highlighting local produce and seafood in a family-run setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Noto and Wine

Siracusa to Noto, Sicily on October 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Sicilia, Noto

Taste the renowned Sicilian pastries including the famous cannoli, in a quiet early morning setting.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Baroque Town of Noto

Stroll the stunning Palazzo Ducezio and lesser-known churches to avoid crowds. Open generally 9am-6pm.
EUR0, 2h0m

11:15am

Drive to Feudo Montoni Vineyard

Visit this boutique vineyard on the outskirts of Noto for a personal wine tasting experience with stunning views.
EUR40, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Agriturismo Feudo Montoni

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch paired with wines produced on-site in a peaceful rural setting.
EUR40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax at Calamosche Beach

Spend the afternoon at this quiet sandy beach within the Vendicari Nature Reserve, ideal for swimming and nature walks.
EUR0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Manna Noto

Taste contemporary Sicilian cuisine in an elegant setting with expertly paired wines.
EUR45, 1h30m
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Day 5: Vendicari and Local Cuisine

Noto to Vendicari Nature Reserve, Sicily on October 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Local Café Noto

Light breakfast with fresh pastries before heading to the nature reserve.
EUR8, 0h30m

9:00am

Morning Walk in Vendicari Nature Reserve

Explore walking trails through a protected wetland with bird watching and isolated beaches. Open 8am-7pm.
EUR5, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Local Fish Tavern Taverna di Vendicari

Savour freshly caught fish dishes prepared rustic style at this hidden gem near the reserve.
EUR30, 1h15m

2:00pm

Afternoon Beach Relaxation at Marianelli Beach

Enjoy the quiet sandy beach nearby, perfect for peaceful swimming and sunbathing.
EUR0, 3h0m

6:00pm

Drive to Modica

Scenic 45-minute drive inland to the charming Baroque town of Modica.
EUR15, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria dei Sapori Perduti, Modica

Experience Modican dishes with a focus on chocolate-infused recipes and local quality ingredients.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Modica Exploration

Modica, Sicily on October 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Caffè Costanzo

Enjoy a traditional Sicilian coffee and pastry in a local cafe.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Church of San Giorgio and Modica Old Town

Explore baroque architecture and quaint streets early to avoid crowds. Open 9am-6pm.
EUR0, 2h0m

11:30am

Modica Chocolate Museum

Learn about the unique history of Modica chocolate and sample traditional styles, quieter in the morning hours. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Accursio

Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative Sicilian cuisine and an excellent wine list.
EUR70, 1h30m

3:00pm

Afternoon Relaxation or Winery Visit Nearby

Spend a quiet afternoon either wandering Modica away from busy centres or visit local private wineries for tastings (by appointment).
EUR20, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Local Trattoria

Sample more traditional Modican dishes in an intimate setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 7: Ragusa and Local Culture

Modica to Ragusa, Sicily on October 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bar Mareneve, Ragusa Ibla

Traditional pastries and coffee in a quiet bar supporting local artisans.
EUR8, 0h30m

9:00am

Explore Ragusa Ibla

Discover the baroque architecture, gardens, and local crafts in the quieter early hours. Most sites open 9am-6pm.
EUR0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Duomo Restaurant

Exceptional Sicilian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and exquisite wine pairings in an elegant atmosphere.
EUR50, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Castello di Donnafugata

This 14th-century castle near Ragusa offers history, gardens and panoramic views, less crowded in the afternoon. Open 9am-6pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Santa Croce Beach

Quiet nearby beach perfect for an end-of-day swim.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Il Barocco

Enjoy a mix of traditional and modern Sicilian dishes in a welcoming environment.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 8: Marzamemi and Beaches

Ragusa to Marzamemi, Sicily on October 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a Local Bar Marzamemi

Light breakfast in this charming fishing village, away from large crowds.
EUR7, 0h30m

9:00am

Relax and Swim at Portopalo beach

A secluded spot near Marzamemi, perfect for swimming and tranquility.
EUR0, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Taverna La Conchiglia

Fresh seafood served in a relaxing seaside setting, causal and non-touristy.
EUR28, 1h30m

2:30pm

Wine Tasting at Avide Azienda Agricola

Visit this boutique winery for a personalised tour and tasting session of local wines by appointment.
EUR30, 2h0m

5:00pm

Explore Marzamemi Village

Walk the quaint streets and enjoy the sea views and local shops in the late afternoon light.
EUR0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante Portobello

Fresh local seafood dishes served with excellent local wines in a quiet atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 9: Return towards Palermo via Cefalù

Marzamemi to Cefalù, Sicily on October 6, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast in Marzamemi

Light breakfast for the day’s journey ahead, opt for local coffee and pastries.
EUR7, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Cefalù

A longer drive of about 4 hours northwest to Cefalù by the northern coast, a beautiful seaside town with fewer tourists in the morning.
EUR60 (fuel estimate), 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Osteria di Cefalù

Enjoy fresh seafood and Sicilian specialities in a quiet location near the beach.
EUR30, 1h15m

1:30pm

Visit Cefalù Cathedral and Lavatoio Medievale

Explore stunning Norman architecture and ancient washbasins while strolling through charming backstreets. Cathedral open 9am-6pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Cefalù Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding on a sandy beach with a beautiful setting away from crowds.
EUR0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ristorante La Brace

Delicious Sicilian grilled specialties with local wine selections in an intimate atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 10: Departure from Palermo

Cefalù to Palermo, Sicily on October 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local café in Cefalù

Light breakfast with Sicilian pastries and coffee before departure.
EUR8, 0h30m

8:30am

Drive back to Palermo

Return journey to Palermo for your departure, allowing at least 1hr travel time to the airport.
EUR20 (fuel estimate), 1h30m

10:00am

Arrival at Palermo Airport

Prepare for your flight home, allow time for check-in and security.
EUR0, Varies
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