7 Days in Sicily: The Ultimate Itinerary & Tips

Discover the beauty of Sicily with our 7-day itinerary, including top attractions, hidden gems, delicious food, and local insights. Explore ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and vibrant cities, and create unforgettable memories on your Sicilian adventure.

Day 1 in Sicily: Discover Palermo's Historic Heart

Explore the Norman Palace

Step back in time at the magnificent Norman Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the Palatine Chapel's intricate mosaics.

Experience the Grandeur of the Teatro Massimo

Be awestruck by the architectural splendor of the Teatro Massimo, one of Europe's largest opera houses, and imagine the vibrant performances that have graced its stage.

Uncover the Capuchin Catacombs

Embark on a unique and thought-provoking journey through the Capuchin Catacombs, where history and artistry intertwine in a macabre yet fascinating display.

Immerse Yourself in the Ballarò Market

Experience the vibrant energy and diverse offerings of the Ballarò Market, a sensory feast of colors, aromas, and local flavors.

Day 2 in Sicily: Embrace the Coastal Charm of Cefalù

Wander Cefalù's Coastal Charm

Explore the charming old town of Cefalù, with its picturesque streets and stunning beaches, and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Relax at Mondello Beach

Escape to the sun-kissed shores of Mondello Beach, a popular spot near Palermo, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and golden sands.

Hike Through the Madonie Mountains

Embark on a scenic hike through the Madonie Mountains National Park, exploring its diverse landscapes and discovering charming medieval villages nestled amidst the peaks.

Day 3 in Sicily: Explore the Ancient Wonders of Agrigento

Journey Through the Valley of the Temples

Step back in time at the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the well-preserved ancient Greek temples, a testament to a glorious past.

Admire the Temple of Concordia

Be captivated by the grandeur of the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, and imagine the rituals that once took place within its sacred walls.

Admire the Scala dei Turchi

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Scala dei Turchi, with its stunning white limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, a natural wonder that will leave you speechless.

Day 4 in Sicily: Conquer Mount Etna and Explore the Aeolian Islands

Hike to the Top of Mount Etna

Experience the thrill of hiking to the summit of Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, and witness the dramatic views from its fiery peak.

Embark on a Boat Trip to the Aeolian Islands

Set sail for the volcanic beauty of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore their unique landscapes, from black sand beaches to steaming craters.

Day 5 in Sicily: Discover the Ancient Ruins of Syracuse

Explore Ortigia Island

Stroll through the charming streets of Ortigia Island, a historic gem in Syracuse, and soak up the beauty of its ancient architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Uncover Syracuse's Ancient Ruins

Journey back in time as you explore the ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Syracuse, including the impressive Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheatre.

Admire the Baroque Towns of Val di Noto

Be captivated by the stunning Baroque architecture of Noto, Ragusa, and other towns in Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience the artistic grandeur of this region.

Day 6 in Sicily: Trek Through the Zingaro Nature Reserve

Trek the Zingaro Nature Reserve

Hike through the stunning coves and beaches of the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a scenic national park near San Vito Lo Capo, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Sicily's natural wonders.

Swim at San Vito Lo Capo Beach

Relax and unwind on the pristine shores of San Vito Lo Capo Beach, one of the best beaches in Europe, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and wide sandy shores.

Explore Erice Medieval Village

Discover the picturesque medieval village of Erice, perched high above Trapani, with its charming cobbled streets and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 7 in Sicily: Delve into the History of Marsala and Selinunte

Admire the Marsala Salt Pans

Witness the unique landscape of the Marsala Salt Pans, a fascinating natural site near Marsala, and learn about the traditional salt production methods that have shaped this region for centuries.

Explore the Selinunte Archaeological Park

Discover the ancient Greek temples and ruins of Selinunte, a significant archaeological site in Sicily, and imagine the bustling city that once stood here.

Discover the Temple of Segesta

Explore the well-preserved Greek temple in Segesta, a short drive from Palermo, and marvel at its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

References

Transportation in Sicily

To get around the city in Sicily, I would recommend walking, as the city centers are often compact and easy to navigate on foot. If you prefer not to walk, you can use public sharing bikes or e-bikes, which are available in cities like Palermo and Catania. In Palermo, you can also use free-floating e-scooters, while in Catania, you can download the AmiGo app to access shared e-bikes. If you're planning to explore the surrounding areas, you can consider renting a car, but be aware that driving in Sicily can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow roads. Alternatively, you can take a day tour that operates from both Palermo and Catania, which can be a convenient option for exploring natural landscapes and historic villages. Taxis are also available, but can be costly, and Uber is not available in Sicily. Collectivos (shared minibuses) are another option, and you can take one from the airport to the city center for a relatively low cost of 8€.

Dos in Sicily

Learn at least a bit of Italian to help you get by and to be polite.
Try authentic local dishes, as real Italian food is different from Italian food in America.
Familiarize yourself with local driving regulations, including speed limits and roundabout usage, when driving in Italy.
Consider renting a smaller car for navigating narrow roads in Italy.
Purchase comprehensive car rental insurance for peace of mind when driving in Italy.
Plan your routes in advance and utilize GPS navigation or maps when driving in Italy.
Stay alert and drive cautiously on small roads in Italy, especially on winding roads.
Yield to local drivers, especially in smaller towns or countryside areas, when driving in Italy.
Take breaks during long drives to rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery in Italy.
Park responsibly and follow local parking regulations to avoid fines when driving in Italy.
Familiarize yourself with ZTL zones, which are areas with restricted vehicle access, to avoid fines when driving in Italy.
Check if your hotel is located within a ZTL zone and inquire about permits to avoid any fines when driving in Italy.
Consider using public transport, walking, or cycling in areas with restricted access when driving in Italy.
Pay close attention to signage that indicates ZTL zones, time restrictions, and potential penalties when driving in Italy.

Don'ts in Sicily

Don't order a milky coffee after a meal or mid-afternoon, as it's not a common practice in Italy.