Road trip in Sicily

You have decided to embark on an adventure and take a road trip in Sicily, but you're unsure of which routes to choose and what activities to do? Don't worry, you're in the right place ☺️ In this article, you'll discover my tips for preparing your trip, as well as the must-see places to visit in Sicily, one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean! Between picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and culinary specialties, you'll quickly find things to do in Sicily without having the time to be bored! Let's go!

For your road trip in Sicily, you can rent a vehicle from a local agency upon arrival or book in advance through an online comparison site, such as DiscoverCars To take advantage of the best rates and compare different rental offers, I recommend making your reservation as early as possible! Convenient and user-friendly, you can filter search results based on your budget, as well as the technical features you expect from your car

Some agencies offer GPS or vehicles with roof bars (to equip the car with a roof box for larger families, for example). Some companies also allow you to pick up a vehicle at one location and return it at another. Very practical!

Driving in Sicily is relatively similar to driving in the United States. However, there are some specific rules to be aware of. Outside the cities, you must keep your low beam headlights on at all times. Be cautious when driving in the city, as some areas are off-limits to you. These are ZTL (restricted traffic zones). In fact, violations in these areas are closely monitored; if you dare to break the rules, you will likely be filmed by hidden cameras, and you'll have to pay a fine!

Keep in mind that locals do not always adhere to speed limits, so be cautious. Also, always keep a GPS handy, as signage can sometimes be lacking.

In Sicily, there are 4 international airports. The main one is in Palermo, the capital. It is the best connected. Next, you'll find Catania Airport, located about a 15-minute drive from the city center. Lastly, Trapani and Comiso airports are also viable options, but there is less air traffic there.

Ultimately, I recommend choosing your departure airport based on the itinerary you've chosen but also according to your budget for plane tickets. To get the best rates, I suggest using the Ulysse comparator. Also, keep in mind that the most important airports, like Palermo, are closer to the main points of interest ✈️

If you prefer not to fly, you can opt for the ferry. The ferry departs from the city of Toulon or Nice and will take you to Trapani. I recommend looking for crossings on Direct Ferries! ⛴️

When is the best time to go to Sicily? This is the essential question when you start planning your trip. The weather in Sicily is particularly pleasant in the spring and fall This is the period I would recommend for organizing your stay. In summer, Sicily is overwhelmed with tourists and temperatures often soar very high Not to mention the prices for flights and accommodations that skyrocket as well!

Note that you can still visit Sicily in winter; temperatures drop, but you won't experience freezing cold. Lastly, consider choosing your travel dates based on the activities you want to do. If you absolutely want to climb Mount Etna, it's best to visit Sicily during good weather

For this road trip in Sicily, I decided to land and start the stay with a visit to Palermo. Upon arrival, my rental car was waiting for me directly at the airport since I had booked my vehicle in advance online

For this itinerary, I planned 15 days of travel, which seems really sufficient to see the major highlights and enjoy all aspects of the island. Of course, this route is subjective, and feel free to modify, shorten, or extend it according to your desires and budget.

Palermo is the perfect city to start your road trip I highly recommend dedicating a few hours to visiting the center of Palermo, a city with such a fascinating history! There, you can discover the impressive Norman Palace, cool off in one of the cafes in Quattro Canti, and admire the Palermo Cathedral...

There is no shortage of points of interest! To fully enjoy it, I suggest spending the night there. Plus, you'll likely feel a little tired from the flight, so to avoid hours of driving at the start, it's a good option. By the way, if you don't know where to stay in Sicily in Palermo, I have a dedicated guide that might be helpful!

You can also enjoy one of the city's beaches, like Mondello. In summer, tourists flock there, but it's for a good reason; this beach is breathtakingly beautiful ✨

To stay in Palermo at a fairly affordable rate, choose the Bel 3 Hotel. This well-rated 3-star establishment has nice, simple, and comfortable rooms, starting at €84 per night for 2, including breakfast. You can even enjoy an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and parking.

The NH Palermo is a beautiful place to stay in Palermo, overlooking the bay It has an outdoor pool, a 4-star service, and some rooms with a sea view. The train station is less than 1 km from the hotel. For a dream night in this luxurious establishment, expect to pay around €135 per night, including breakfast.

Trapani is definitely a must-see stop during a road trip in Sicily. To start the day, I recommend parking and heading towards the historic center of the city on foot. As you stroll through the charming little streets, you can catch a glimpse of the cultural mix that reigns here

If you visit Trapani, you'll quickly notice that there are plenty of sights worth seeing, including the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the Ligny Tower, the Saturn Fountain, and the regional museum of Count Agostino Pepoli. Don't miss the opportunity to go on a trip to visit the salt pans. Indeed, Trapani salt is known for its excellent quality and is harvested in a protected reserve! Expect to pay around €45 per person for this 2-hour guided tour.

After your visit to Trapani, you can head to Erice. This unique village is located atop a mountain with an elevation of 750 meters. It's an extraordinary experience that you'll have while visiting this medieval village. It feels frozen in time and promises a refreshing break! The village offers stunning views of the Gulf of Trapani and the Aegadian Islands, as well as the Valderice valley and the inland areas. Trust me, the sunsets from this viewpoint are memorable

The Elimo Hotel, located on the island of Lipari, is situated in Erice. It offers optimal comfort with accommodations equipped with quality bedding. You can enjoy the pleasant outdoor terrace and garden for breakfast Expect to pay a minimum of €84 for a night.

Room of Andrea is an ideal 4-star hotel for relaxation in Trapani! Located in the city center, it offers comfortable and spacious rooms with access to the outdoor pool on the rooftop. Expect to pay a minimum of €89 for a double room, breakfast included.

Since you're passing through Trapani and Erice, I recommend taking some time to head to Marsala. Before you even reach the city, you'll enjoy stunning landscapes along the way, with beautiful views of the sea and countless vineyards

Yes, it's especially its wine that makes Marsala famous! So take the time to taste this local specialty at a producer in the area From €40 per person, you can participate in a visit to the Florio vineyard with a tasting of local wines, all accompanied by a guide. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply curious to learn more about the region, this is typically the kind of activity I recommend you do!

But Marsala is not just about its wine; it also has unique architecture. To learn more, head towards the city center where you can admire, among other things, the well-known Porta Garibaldi

Agrigento is a must-see during your road trip in Sicily! It's an opportunity to slow down and wander through the picturesque streets of the city. Be mindful, the visit is very pleasant, but prepare to climb many stairs!

Agrigento is home to the iconic Valley of the Temples. This archaeological site, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, dates back to the 6th century BC. Inside the site, you will see several temples like the Temple of Concord, the Temple of Heracles, and some remains of the Temple of Zeus. If this activity particularly excites you, I recommend booking your entry to the Valley of the Temples in advance online for €17 per person since the site can be quite touristy. This will save you some time!

If you have time after leaving Agrigento, don't hesitate to head to Scala dei Turchi nearby, which is also known as the White Cliffs. These natural stairs formed of limestone lead directly to the sea!

For unbeatable quality/price, head to the Terrazze di Pirandello. Located in the heart of the city, you can easily park for free ️ Some rooms have a terrace with a lovely view of the Valley of the Temples! Expect to pay a minimum of €62 for a night, breakfast included.

Giafra Luxury offers modern rooms close to the Valley of the Temples. The decor is simple and elegant, and you can relax in the patio or the pool. For a night in this hotel, breakfast included, expect to pay around €115.

Ragusa, or Raguse in Italian, is perched 550 meters high on a cliff in southeastern Sicily near the Irminio River in the Noto Valley. It is one of the Baroque cities, along with Noto and Modica. During your visit, you will clearly distinguish between 2 parts: the old town and the modern city, which was built in 1693 after a devastating earthquake.

In the old town, which is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage, lies the beautiful Cathedral of San Giorgio, a true jewel of the Baroque movement You can admire other equally sumptuous sites such as the Cattedrale di S.Giovanni, the Palazzo Zacco, and the Chiesa di S.Maria dell'Addolorata, some of which like the Palazzo Zacco are located in the modern part of Ragusa. Finally, don't miss the 3 iconic bridges: Ponte Vecchio, Ponte Nuovo, and Ponte Giovanni.

Not far from Ragusa is the town of Scicli, another typical Baroque Sicilian town. Strolling through Scicli's old streets is magical! ✨ You will jump back in time and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere that emanates from these places, which are also classified as UNESCO heritage.

Among the must-see sites, you can note the Church of San Bartolomeo, the Palazzo Spadaro, the Church of Santa Maria La Nova, and the Church of San Matteo. This list is, of course, not exhaustive!

Located between Noto and Pachino, the Vendicari reserve covers over 1300 hectares and spans 8 km of coastline. It is so vast that it hosts several biotopes such as salt marshes, rocky coasts, and sandy shores. The reserve has a rich fauna and flora and welcomes many migratory birds due to its proximity to the African coast. Among the species you may encounter are grey herons, storks, flamingos, and sandpipers...

You will see part of this during your immersion in nature that awaits you For this, you can take advantage of several observation points. You can also roam along marked paths and perhaps be surprised by a turtle or a leopard snake, as well as by the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Eloro.

The Baglio Genovesi is a high-end hotel located 5 minutes from the city of Noto and about 13 km from the Vendicari reserve. The view of Noto from the pool is absolutely incredible The accommodations are very comfortable, and the staff is particularly welcoming. Expect to pay a minimum of €190 per night, including breakfast.

Il Giardino Del Barocco hotel is also located in Noto, but this time in the historic center. The location is perfect if you want to discover more of the city during your road trip. The rooms of this former Baroque family home are stunning. For one night, expect to pay around €96 for two people, including breakfast.

Just outside Syracuse lies the small town of Cassibile, a charming seaside resort. Start your visit by exploring the town center, then head to Fontane Bianche beach. It's a must-see in the area, a unique beach with rocky edges! Note that the nearby parking is paid ️

Continue your discovery of the region by heading towards Cava Grande del Cassibile. This natural site is absolutely stunning! The canyon spans 10 km, which is why it's wise to dedicate an entire day to exploring it.

You will have the opportunity to enjoy hiking trails to discover the rich fauna and flora hidden in the lush vegetation of the canyon. But you will also see treasures dating back to prehistoric times, such as caves and necropolises. You can even swim in the natural pools and waterfalls along your route! Note that the walk can be challenging in the full sun, so I recommend heading to Cava Grande del Cassibile early in the morning. In any case, be sure to bring enough water and sunscreen if you visit during the high season.

You can't go on a road trip in Sicily without visiting Syracuse! A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is home to unique historical monuments as well as idyllic natural landscapes. Syracuse has a special history. Founded by the Greeks, it was a prosperous and influential city for decades until the 5th century BC, followed by centuries of warfare.

Start your discovery of Syracuse in its historic center. This is located on the island of Ortygia. I recommend walking there, as you won't be able to access some places by car. Take one of the 3 bridges that lead there and stroll through the old town streets to be surprised by its historical monuments and unique charm

Among the most notable places to see in Syracuse are the Syracuse Port, the Piazza del Duomo, the Catacombs of San Giovanni, and the Temple of Apollo. As for activities, I suggest not forgetting to visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis and embark on a boat tour of the island of Ortigia and the marine caves! ⛵️

The Casale Milocca is located just 750 meters from Fanusa beach. It occupies a former Sicilian farmhouse dating back to the 19th century. Outside, you can enjoy the huge pool and terrace to relax after your day of visits. This is a lovely address if you're unsure where to stay in Syracuse Expect to pay about €155 for a night in this hotel, breakfast included.

The Caportigia Boutique Hotel is located 1 km from the Archaeological Park of Neapolis and the Syracuse Cathedral. The main advantage of this accommodation is its huge rooftop terrace that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city! For a night, expect to pay around €159 for two people.

Catania is a true survivor! Destroyed 7 times by natural disasters, it has been rebuilt 7 times since. Its existence dates back to the 8th century BC. It has become a melting pot of cultures due to its geographical location and the various civilizations that have shaped it.

Catania is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to around 300,000 inhabitants today, making it one of the most populated Sicilian cities. If you're unsure what to do in Catania, you can start by discovering Piazza del Duomo, the heart of the city. It's a beautiful square where you can see the sublime Fontana dell'Elefante and also the town hall. Nearby, you can also visit the Cattedrale di Sant'Agata, a true architectural masterpiece. Here are a few other key points I recommend you not to miss!

Then take the opportunity to take a break in Parco Maestranze, a pleasant and relaxing green space Continue your journey by heading to the most important street in the city: Via Etna. It's lined with shops, cafés, and many other businesses.

But its main attraction is that, on clear days, it offers a stunning view of Mount Etna, making it the perfect spot to take some beautiful souvenir photos To ensure you don't miss any highlights in Catania, you can opt for a guided walking tour of the city.

To have a surprising stay, choosing where to stay in Catania is important. You can stay at the Suites Del Duomo Luxury. Located in the center of Catania, it features ultra-modern and atypical decoration, and you can enjoy a private jacuzzi in some accommodations. Expect a minimum of €119 for a night for 2.

The Four Points by Sheraton Catania is a hotel that offers spacious rooms with modern decor. You will also have access to a wellness center and an outdoor pool, and in summer, you can enjoy the beach! For one night, expect to pay around €84.

If there's one stop you must make during a road trip in Sicily, it's this one: visiting Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. The last eruption of the volcano was in 2016, which actually caused damage to Catania nearby

To discover this 500,000-year-old volcano, you have several options. The first, and certainly the most physical, is a guided hike. Some excursions start at a refuge called Sapienza. Expect about 4 hours to reach the summit of Etna, which rises to 3,330 meters in altitude. Once at the top, you typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the different craters.

Know that if the ascent seems difficult, you can take part of the climb to the summit by funicular. You can then take a bus that will take you to over 2,900 meters altitude or hike to the summit (obligatorily with a guide) for about 2 hours Note that the cost to take the funicular is quite high (around €30 per person), and you can only use it from 9 am to 4:15 pm in summer and from 9 am to 3:45 pm in winter.

The second option is to fly over Etna by helicopter! Most flights last about 20 minutes and will give you a different view of the volcano. It is certainly a considerable cost, but believe me, you will remember it for the rest of your life!

The town of Taormina is an upscale seaside resort but also a historic city that houses exceptional archaeological sites ✨ It's a top destination if you're unsure what to see on the southern coast of Sicily. Be aware that you cannot enter this cliffside village with your car, as the old town is entirely pedestrian!

To start your visit to Taormina, I recommend heading to Piazza IX Aprile, where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the coast. You may even see Mount Etna if the weather permits. Then go to lunch in one of the many restaurants on the main street of the town: Corso Umberto. It's also an opportunity for shopping in the many souvenir and clothing stores ️

Among other sites of interest to visit in Taormina, you'll find the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the Greek Theatre, and the Villa Comunale garden. To learn more about the activities to do in Taormina, you can click directly below ⬇️

For budget travelers, the Villino Gallodoro hotel is ideal. Starting at €93 per night, you'll stay in a clean, spacious, and comfortable room, and some have a terrace or balcony. The beach is only 50 meters away from the property.

The Splendid Hotel Taormina is a former monastery nestled in the rocks that overlooks the sea, just a 3-minute walk from Corso Umberto. Perfect if you're looking for a classy place to stay in Taormina! On-site, you can enjoy the pool and shiatsu treatments. For a night, with breakfast, expect to pay a minimum of €70.

Now let's head towards Milazzo, which is about a 2-hour drive from Taormina. The city is known as the departure point to the Aeolian Islands, as it is the closest port. But Milazzo is not only that!

The main attraction of the city is its castle. Extremely well preserved and offering a panoramic view of the city, it dates back to the Neolithic period. So, don't hesitate to take the time to visit this unique structure Don't miss exploring the Borgo, the most representative part of the city's historical heritage, as well as the lower town, which is the most modern part.

You can, of course, enjoy the Riviera di Ponente beach, which is one of the most beautiful you will encounter during your road trip in Sicily! ️ If you plan to stay long enough, I also recommend participating in a night boat excursion to Panarea and Stromboli, one of the most popular spots in the Aeolian Islands ⛵️

After wandering the streets of Milazzo, it's time to head to the Aeolian Islands. To get there, you can take the ferry to Vulcano Island in about 1 hour and 25 minutes or to Lipari Island in 2 hours. You can also reach them by hydrofoil or helicopter; however, the latter option comes at a significantly higher cost...

Be careful; you can't visit all 7 islands in one day! I recommend choosing just one or spending several days in the archipelago to take your time discovering them one by one However, Lipari is the largest and has the most accommodations, allowing you to easily access the other islands if you wish to explore them. In my opinion, it's best to opt for an organized excursion to Lipari and Vulcano! Expect to pay around €48 per person for the day.

The Eolian Residence, located on Lipari Island, is a family-friendly aparthotel with impeccable service The price-quality ratio is unbeatable; it offers very clean accommodations and has an outdoor area as well as a pool with a view, starting at €47 per night for two.

The Le Giara hotel is also a charming establishment located on Lipari Island, in the city center. The flowering garden is a real haven of peace, especially since it houses a beautiful pool Expect to pay around €70 for a night, with breakfast served on the terrace.

Now head back to Palermo for the last stop of your road trip: visiting Cefalù Here, the atmosphere of a small fishing village is omnipresent! You will definitely notice the rock of Cefalù, which testifies to the different cultures that have succeeded one another, including the ruins of the castle. You can also visit its fortress cathedral dating back to 1131. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage as well.

Stroll through Corso Ruggero, then follow the waterfront to enjoy a swim on one of the beaches before returning to the city center to taste local specialties. If you're wondering where to stay in Cefalù, I've already written a post on the subject

We've reached the end of this comprehensive article on the road trip in Sicily! I hope it has helped you prepare your trip and find some activities to do there. If you want more information, you can also read my article on the 10 reasons to love Sicily