Day 1 Catania

After arriving at Catania's airport, spend your day wandering through the city's baroque streets. Visit the iconic Piazza del Duomo, explore the stunning Catania Cathedral and Ursino Castle, and don't miss the bustling fish market for an authentic taste of Sicilian life.

Day 2 Taormina

A day trip to enchanting Taormina is one of the must do's in Sicily. Perched above the sea, this town offers you stunning views from the ancient Greek theatre. Take a delightful stroll along Corso Umberto for shopping and walk into one of the trattorias for lunch.

How to get there? To reduce car rental costs, we suggest you take either the bus or train from Catania. The train is faster (30-60min), though you'll need to walk 20min to the centre. The Interbus takes 75min, but is cheaper and it takes you directly to the city centre.

Day 3 Mount Etna

Mount Etna is with its dramatic landscape a definite must-see in Sicily. If the current volcanic activity level allows it, book a guided tour to reach the summit. It's a truly unique experience!

On your 4th day, pick-up your rental car to get to Syracuse and start your road trip. Dive into ancient history at the Archaeological Park Neapolis, home to the Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheater and the'Ear of Dionysius' cave. The limestone cave is notorious for its unique acoustics and use as a prison by the tyrant Dionysius I of Syracuse.

Wander through the enchanting island of Ortigia, Syracuse's historic core, where you can admire the Temple of Apollo and enjoy delicious street food at the nearby (fish) markets. Then head further south to the magnificent Piazza del Duomo with its Cathedral, the mythological Fountain of Arethusa , and the Piazza Archimede with the Diana fountain. Along the promenade you'll be treated to splendid views, best enjoyed at sunset. Round off your day with a relaxed seafood dinner.

Your next stop takes you to Noto, a beautiful baroque town, which was rebuilt entirely after a disastrous earthquake. The city is also an UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a walk along Via Nicolaci, admire the balconies of Palazzo Nicolaci, the renowned Palazzo Ducezio, and visit the Cathedral of San Nicolò.

Day 7: Today relax at one of the beaches near Noto. Or visit the charming fishing village of Marzamemi, famous for its tuna fisheries and vibrant piazza. Enjoy fresh seafood and explore the local artisan shops.

Today you have a long drive ahead of you to Agrigento. Pause in lovely Modica to sample its famous speciality chocolate at Sicily's oldest chocolate factory, Antica Dolceria Bonajuto. Modica's chocolate is made differently than other chocolate in the world and is a great gift to bring home :)

The Cioccolato di Modica PGI is made basically with the same method as in 1880 with grinding cocoa and sugar, mixed in a cold-working process. The temperature of only 42°-45° prevents sugar crystals to melt and gives the chocolate a special grainy, rough consistency.

Spend the afternoon exploring the old Town of Agrigento with its charming cobblestone streets. Stroll along the main street Via Atenea, and visit the Holy Spirit Monastery with its almond cakes, the San Gerlando Cathedral or the Episcopal Palace.

Day 9

Explore the Valley of the Temples, one of the top must-see attractions in Sicily. The archeological park has 8 temples, built between 510 and 430 BC. We recommend you take the ticket incl. entry to the Agrigento regional archaeological museum to learn more about its ancient history.

Viewpoint

Scala dei Turchi (Turkish staircase) is west of Agrigentino and a very cool white limestone cliff. Despite its popularity, it's a perfect spot for breathtaking views and memorable photos. The contrast between the white, uniquely formed stone set against the turquoise sea is magnificent.

If your heart's desire is to explore Sicilian's ancient temples, then this day is for you. Kick off early to make the most of your visit to not just one, but two archaeological parks, alongside a scenic drive to the Northern Coast. Your first stop brings you to Selinunte, home to a vast Greek archaeological park featuring an acropolis and dual temple complexes, set against beautiful bluff views.

As afternoon closures are common, we suggest a swift lunch in nearby Marinella before heading to Segesta.

Visit the Archaeological Park of Segesta with its marvellously well-preserved temples. Segesta is actually one of the most important of the Elime cities. Hike up to the ancient Temple of Segesta and Doric Temple, and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views from above.

Tip: If you are here in summer, be prepared for a hot and tiring hike of 1.5 kilometres. It is worth taking the bus uphill and instead walk back down again. Don't forget to take enough water with you, you'll need it!

It's a short drive from Segesta to Castellammare. This picturesque coastal town is ideal for your next base. After checking into your hotel, enjoy your well-deserved dinner. After this day you will surely sleep well :)

Day 11: Do you like to go hiking in nature? If so, spend your day at the Nature reserve Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro. It's a beautiful, pristine park along the northern coast offering over 4,000 acres of wilderness. Drive to the entrance near Scopello since it's close to Catellammare. The road isn't the best, so drive carefully.

Tips: To enjoy the day, start early to avoid the heat, pack ample water, lunch, sunscreen, a hat, and wear sturdy shoes for hiking.

Alternatively, a leisurely day at the beach is a perfect way to relax.

Your last stop takes you to Palermo, the island's vibrant capital. It's wise to drop off your rental car at the city's outskirts to avoid the crazy city traffic.

Palermo itself has a lot to offer. With its characteristic Arabic-Norman architecture, buzzing Sicilian atmosphere and great food, you have a wide choice of activities. Don't miss the Norman Palace, Cathedral and the Cathedral of Monreale. However, if you want to spend more time to see Palermo's bustling markets and its amazing street food, skip Monreale. For a distinctly eerie and morbid experience, the Catacombs of the Capuchins and its mummies are unforgettable.

Do you have an extra day to hit the beach? Read the city guide for Palermo to find nearby beaches for a last dip before heading home.

We are happy to hear about your favourite Sicilian experiences. Wishing you all the best for your grand journey!