7-Day Itinerary for Sicily: Exploring the Island’s Hidden Gems
Day 1: Arrival in Palermo and Exploration of the City
Morning: Arrive at Falcone-Borsellino Airport and take a taxi or bus to your hotel in Palermo, the capital city of Sicily.
Afternoon: Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni (Norman Palace), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 9th century. Explore the stunning Cappella Palatina, a chapel with Byzantine mosaics and Arab-Norman architecture.
Evening: Wander through the historic center of Palermo, including the bustling markets and street food stalls. Try some local specialties like arancini (stuffed rice balls) or cannoli.
Day 2: Palermo to Agrigento
Morning: Drive to Agrigento (about 2 hours) and visit the Valley of the Temples, a magnificent ancient Greek archaeological site.
Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved temples in the complex. Take a stroll through the adjacent Archaeological Museum to learn more about the site’s history.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria and relax by the sea.
Day 3: Agrigento to Taormina
Morning: Drive to Taormina (about 2.5 hours) and visit the ancient Greek Theater, perched dramatically on a hill overlooking the sea.
Afternoon: Explore the charming old town of Taormina, including its picturesque streets, shops, and cafes. Visit the Palazzo Corvaja, a medieval palace with stunning views.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Taormina’s many restaurants and take in the sunset.
Day 4: Taormina to Syracuse
Morning: Drive to Siracusa (about 2 hours) and visit the Greek Theater, another ancient archaeological site. Explore the nearby Roman Amphitheater and the Catacombs of San Giovanni.
Afternoon: Visit the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Byzantine mosaics and Baroque architecture. Wander through the historic center’s narrow streets and admire the ornate fountains.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and relax in the beautiful Piazza del Duomo.
Day 5: Syracuse to Catania
Morning: Drive to Catania (about 1.5 hours) and visit the stunning Cathedral of Acireale, a Baroque masterpiece with ornate decorations. Wander through the historic center’s streets and admire the grand piazzas.
Afternoon: Visit the Catacombs of San Giovanni Battista, an ancient underground burial site that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Explore the nearby Roman Amphitheater and the Castle Ursino.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Catania’s many restaurants and take in the lively atmosphere.
Day 6: Catania to Taormina
Morning: Drive back to Taormina (about 1.5 hours) and spend the day exploring the surrounding area. Visit the beautiful beaches, such as Isola Bella or Mazzarò.
Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of Taormina’s many spas or take a leisurely walk through the town’s charming streets.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Taormina’s many restaurants and watch the sunset.
Day 7: Departure from Catania
Morning: Drive back to Catania (about 1.5 hours) and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city before departing.
Afternoon: Depart from Fontanarossa Airport, bringing back memories of your incredible Sicilian adventure.