Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 7 Days

Highlights

• Roam ancient Greek and Roman ruins at Agrigento and Syracuse
• Admire the ornate Sicilian Baroque architecture in Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli
• Hike Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano
• Walk to Taormina's Isola Bella to see a 17th-century palace and elegant gardens
• Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of Catania's Villa Bellini park

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Palermo 

Benvenuti in Italia! Upon arrival at the airport in Palermo, pick up your rental car and drive 45 minutes to your hotel in the heart of the city. Sicily's regional capital boasts beautiful Mediterranean weather and a colorful history with strong ties to its Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman past, as evidenced in its architecture, culture, music, and cuisine.

The historic city center and medieval streets are easy to navigate by foot, with many attractions and restaurants within walking distance. To get your bearings, take a stroll or passeggiata along the narrow Via Maqueda, a pedestrianized thoroughfare that connects the north of the city to the south. A good place to start and for fine examples of Baroque architecture and sculpture is the Fontana Pretoria (fountain) in Piazza Pretoria. Otherwise, relax post-flight and spend the afternoon lazing on the sands of nearby Mondello Beach.

Day 2: Guided Tour of Palermo, Visit Monreale

Today, you'll meet your guide for a private half-day tour of the Sicilian capital—a smart way to experience the city's vibrant culture and artistic and architectural points of interest. Quattro Canti (officially known as Piazza Vigliena), Palazzo Reale, the 12th-century Duomo (the Palermo Cathedral), and Marina Square are some examples of architectural masterpieces you'll come across. You'll also visit Capo Market, a great spot to pick up some lunch or a typical snack like panelle (chickpea fritters) and cazzilli (pan-fried potato croquettes).

After the tour, you'll have the afternoon to explore under your own steam. A great option is Monreale, a short 20-minute drive away. On the slopes of Monte Caputo, you'll discover what is thought to be the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world, the Cattedrale di Monreale. The 12th-century UNESCO-listed cathedral is made up of ornate cloisters and bright gold mosaics that feature scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Admire the Norman-Byzantine art and architecture as you tour this national monument.

Day 3: Drive to Catania via Agrigento

This morning you'll cut across the island to Catania on the east coast, stopping after 2.5 hours on the southern shore at Agrigento's UNESCO-protected archaeological site. Here you'll meet with a licensed guide to discover the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas in the Valley of the Temples, so named for its well-preserved Greek monuments. One such intact gem is the Temple of Concordia, one of several ridge-top temples that once served as beacons for homecoming sailors.

When you're ready, continue your drive east to your hotel in Catania. The second-largest city next to Palermo, Catania sits at the foot of Mount Etna on the Ionian Sea and deserves its share of exploration. Having suffered from a massive volcanic eruption of Mount Etna in 1669, followed by an earthquake in 1693, the town was largely rebuilt during the Baroque era and has some stunning buildings to show for it. Discover the impressive Church of Sant'Agata al Carcere in Piazza Santo Carcere or visit the San Nicoló l'Arena, Sicily's largest church (famous for its unfinished façade).

After dinner, take an evening stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Catania Orto Botanico and Villa Bellini Park for panoramic views of Catania.

Day 4: Day Trip to Ragusa Ibla, Modica & Scicli

Today is yours to spend as you choose. One option  is to make the most of your proximity to the incredible UNESCO-listed cities of Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli and set out on a day trip to explore their historic streets. Drive first to Ragusa Ibla and spend a few leisurely hours meandering the narrow laneways as you walk under elaborate balconies, stopping to relax in a café or gelateria. Don't miss the climb to the 18th-century Duomo di San Giorgio. The walk up the 250 steps is worth it to view the only example of a Catalan-Gothic-style portal.

Next up is Modica, roughly a 30 min ute drive away. Built on the sides of a canyon, the city is known for its traditionally made chocolate that follows an ancient Aztec recipe. Wander its labyrinth of bustling streets and steep staircases, starting on Corso Umberto in Modica Bassa (Lower Modica) to get orientated. Explore the narrow alleys as you make your way up to Modica Alta (Upper Modica) and its medieval quarter. Here you might like to head up to Pizzo Belvedere for stunning views over the Modica Valley.

If there's time, continue south for a further 20 minutes to the often-overlooked ancient town of Scicli. Follow the elegant pedestrianized Via Penna for pretty views of Baroque palaces and churches. You won't want to miss a visit to possibly one of Sicily's most beautiful Baroque buildings, Palazzo Beneventano, on nearby Via Duce d'Aosta. And if there's time, take the zig-zagging path to the abandoned San Matteo church perched on an overhanging cliff to enjoy the sweeping vistas of Scicli below or visit the (also abandoned) cave settlement in Scicli's old Chiafura district. 

Day 5: Day Trip to Syracuse, Guided Tour of Neapolis Archaeological Park & Ortigia

Dedicate the morning to exploring the ancient ruins of the Ionian coast on a guided tour of Syracuse. Your first stop is the Neapolis Archaeological Park for a stroll among the ruins and ancient relics together with your expert guide. Learn about the region's Greek and Roman history as you explore the architecture, and then continue the walking tour through Ortigia—Syracuse's beautiful old town, located on a spit of land that extends into the Mediterranean.

The afternoon is yours to spend at your own pace. Lose yourself in the winding streets, stumbling across tucked-away gems, like the late 19th-century noble residence, Palazzo Impellizzeri, completed in the indulgent Rococo style, the Temple of Apollo in Piazza Pancali, or go underground to explore the honeycomb network of the San Giovanni Crypt and Catacombs, which date back to the 6th century. Alternatively, if you're in need of a little relaxation and less sightseeing, relax on the beautiful sand and turquoise water of Arenella Beach, 20 minutes south of Syracuse.

Day 6: Day Trip to Taormina, Guided Mount Etna Hike

Get an early start today and head inland toward Europe's largest active volcano, Mount Etna. You'll start in the Rifugio Sapienza, the southern access point to the volcano, for your guided hike to Torre Del Filosofo. Rent any walking equipment you may need and then proceed to ride the cable car up 9,500 feet (2,900 m) to the summit. You'll want to keep your camera close at hand for the stunning views of solidified lava flow, fumaroles, and the sweeping vistas across the Mediterranean. 

Upon your return to your car, you'll continue the day's drive to Taormina, a sophisticated and famous resort town located on the Ionian Sea. The town's incredible views and ancient Greek theater, often used for operatic and theatrical performances, make it the perfect destination for fans of the arts. Visit the 10th-century Palazzo Corvaja, named after one of the city's most influential families, the restored 17th-century Catholic Santa Caterina Church, and stroll along the Vicolo Stretto—the narrowest street in town. 

Find your way to the main square of Piazza IX Aprile to rest and refresh with a glass of Mount Etna's famous wine at a local enoteca. And when it's time, make your way back to your accommodation in Catania.

Day 7: Depart Catania

After one last cappuccino and pastry at breakfast, it's time to drive to the airport, drop off your rental car, and catch your flight. Safe travels! 

More Great Italy Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Italy? Check out these other Italy itineraries, explore different ways to spend a week in Italy, or discover the best time to visit Italy.