6-Day Sicily Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Palermo to Catania and Taormina

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Photo of Palermo, Sicily, Italy. Seafront view.
Photo of Palermo Norman cathedral, a UNESCO world heritage site in Italy, colored sunset sky.
Photo of Cefalu, medieval village of Sicily island, Province of Palermo, Italy.
Cefalu is city in Italian Metropolitan City of Palermo located on Tyrrhenian coast of Sicily, Italy.
Photo of Quattro Canti, Piazza Vigliena, is a Baroque square in Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
Photo of Palermo Cathedral in Palermo, Italy in a beautiful summer day.
Photo of Famous fountain of shame on baroque Piazza Pretoria, Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
Photo of Palermo street market. In Palermo is a very popular open air street market.
Photo of The Norman Cathedral, world heritage site in Italy, view from the roof.
Photo of Villa Bonnano public gardens and the palace at dawn.
View of Charleston, the Mondello beach establishment on the sea in Palermo, Sicily, Italy.
Fishing boats on beach of Cefalu, medieval town on Sicily island, Italy. Seashore village with historic buildings, clear turquoise sea water and mountains. Popular tourist attraction near Palermo.
Palermo, Sicily town skyline with landmark towers in the morning.
The Teatro Massimo in Palermo. Sicily, southern Italy.
Photo of aerial view of Mount Etna, City, beaches and Port, Catania, Sicily, Italy.
Piazza del Duomo in Catania on a summer day, with Duomo of Saint Agatha and the Elephant Fountain. Sicily, southern Italy. View of Cathedral Sant Agata on Piazza del Duomo in Catania, Sicily, Italy.
Ruins of the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina on a sunny summer day with the mediterranean sea. Province of Messina, Sicily, southern Italy.
Photo of Piazza del Duomo with Cathedral of Santa Agatha in Catania, Sicily, Italy.
Catania, Sicily, Italy – view from the beach Lido azzurro
Aerial view on via Etnea in Catania. Dome of Catania and the main street with the background of volcano Etna, Sicily, Italy. Catania the UNESCO World Heritage.
Ursino castle in Catania, Italy
Catania - Theater - Teatro Massimo Bellini at dusk.
Catania town main square center (Piazza del Duomo) with the Elephant statue the symbol of the city in Sicily, Italy
Ancient Roman theater in Catania, built from the limestone and black lava.
The arch Giuseppe Garibaldi built to honor the Spanish King Ferdinand I, Catania, Sicily. Triumphal arch built in 1768 - famous landmark of the city.
Front of The Church of San Nicolo (Chiesa di San Nicolo l`Arena), Catania, Sicily, Italy
Bellini garden park in Catania, Sicily, Italy
Via Teatro Massimo street with green plants trees leads to Massimo Bellini Opera House in Catania city, Sicily, Italy
Medieval Benedictine Monastery of San Nicolo l'Arena. Now the University of Catania, Italy.
Photo of scenic sight in Taormina, famous beautiful city in the Province of Messina, Sicily, southern Italy.
Photo of beautiful landscape of Taormina, Italy. Sicilian seascape with beach and island Isola Bella.
Photo of morning panoramic view of Taormina main square (Piazza IX Aprile) with San Giuseppe Church, the Clock Tower and Mount Etna Volcano on background ,Taormina, Sicily, Italy.
Photo of beautiful beaches of Taormina town Sicily island, Italy.
Photo of Townscape of Taormina with cathedral, square and the hill with other buildings, Italy.
Photo of Ruins of the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina, Sicily with the double smoke tail of the Etna extending over the the Giardini-Naxos bay of the Ionian Sea in the morning sun shine, Italy.
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Explore the best of Sicily on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Palermo, Agrigento, Catania, Taormina, Syracuse, and Cefalù. This road trip itinerary in Sicily seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Sicily takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Palermo, 1 night in Catania, and 1 night in Taormina. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Sicily. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Palermo, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Sicily on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Sicily. Valle Dei Templi and Palermo Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ancient Theatre Of Taormina, learn more about the unique Quattro Canti, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Norman Palace.

As you hit the open road and drive through Palermo, Agrigento, Catania, Taormina, Syracuse, and Cefalù, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Sicily. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Sicily.

Throughout your road trip in Sicily, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Sicily.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Sicily fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Sicily today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Foro Italico
Regional Archeological Museum Antonio SalinasQuattro CantiFontana PretoriaChurch of St. Mary of the AdmiralPalermo CathedralNorman Palace
Valle dei TempliScala dei TurchiPiazza UniversitàBasilica Cattedrale di Sant'AgataFountain of the Elephant
Castello UrsinoVilla Bellini/Chiosco BelliniIsola BellaVilla Comunale di TaorminaAncient theatre of TaorminaPorta Catania
Ear of DionysiusNeapolis Archaeological ParkTemple of ApolloCathedral of CefalùLavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa)
Catacombe dei Cappuccini

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Palermo - Arrival day
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  • Foro Italico
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Say hello to Palermo! Your exciting road trip through Italy is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Palermo for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Palermo is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Foro Italico, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Palermo. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Palermo, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Cotto e Bollito, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bebop beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Eremiti Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Palermo tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Malox Cult, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Ai Giudici is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Italico also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Sicily!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Palermo
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Drive 5 km, 46 min

  • Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas
  • Quattro Canti
  • Fontana Pretoria
  • Church of St. Mary of the Admiral
  • Palermo Cathedral
  • Norman Palace
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Palermo has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Palermo by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Palermo’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas. This instagrammable museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Quattro Canti, a must-visit public square in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Fontana Pretoria, a worthwhile monument. For a change of scene, check out Martorana, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features. We also recommend visiting Palermo Cathedral. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Norman Palace, yet another interesting attraction in Palermo.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Sicily is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Palermo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Osteria Mercede, an iconic dining spot in Palermo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Trattoria Del Massimo, a popular restaurant in Palermo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa, a hidden gem nestled in Palermo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Spina Bar Palermo, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Torrefazione Castagnetta Massimiliano (gelateria). This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Monkey Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Sicily.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Palermo
  • Catania
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Drive 323 km, 4 hours 52 min

  • Valle dei Templi
  • Scala dei Turchi
  • Piazza Università
  • Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
  • Fountain of the Elephant
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Sicily, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Agrigento, Scavuzzo, and Catania. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Catania, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Palermo is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Valle Dei Templi, a notable archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Scala Dei Turchi, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Piazza Università. This public square is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Palermo at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Catania Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the often recommended Elephant Fountain.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Catania. Catania offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Catania. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Ristorante da Antonio, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Lido Arcobaleno boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lido Azzurro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Catania.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Caffè Europa. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Insigne Cafè, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bohéme Mixology Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Sicily!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Catania
  • Taormina
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Drive 58 km, 2 hours 3 min

  • Castello Ursino
  • Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini
  • Isola Bella
  • Villa Comunale di Taormina
  • Ancient theatre of Taormina
  • Porta Catania
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Sicily. Today you will explore Catania, Mazzarò, and Taormina, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Taormina. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day at Castello Ursino. This culturally significant castle is a notable place to see in Catania. Then, wander over to Giardino Bellini. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Isola Bella.

Catania offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Villa Comunale Di Taormina is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the romantic Ancient Theatre Of Taormina. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known archeological site. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Catania's top attractions with a visit to Porta Catania.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Taormina. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Taormina's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at PizzaMania Taormina, a popular restaurant in Taormina. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Taormina at Ristorante Pizzeria Tiramisù Taormina, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli Taormina since 1978 N°15. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Taormina tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Luraleo Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Sicily and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Taormina
  • Palermo
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Drive 424 km, 5 hours 25 min

  • Ear of Dionysius
  • Neapolis Archaeological Park
  • Temple of Apollo
  • Cathedral of Cefalù
  • Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa)
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Sicily. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Syracuse and Cefalù. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Palermo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Ear Of Dionysius. This increasingly popular cave is a history-steeped place to see in Taormina. Continue your discovery at Neapolis Archaeological Park, a culturally significant archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Taormina, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Temple Of Apollo. This popular archeological site offers a picture-perfect encounter with Taormina. Next, make your way to Cefalù Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa), a curiosity-inducing historical landmark that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Taormina.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Palermo, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Palermo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Splendid Hotel la Torre, a top-rated dining spot in Palermo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ristorantino Sobremesa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ristorante Quattro mani. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Palermo.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Touring, known for its lively atmosphere. Palermo Football Store is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Goccio - L’arte Del Miscelare offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Say good night to Palermo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Sicily!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Palermo - Departure day
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  • Catacombe dei Cappuccini
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Day 6 of your road trip in Sicily is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Palermo before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Catacombe Dei Cappuccini, an inviting cemetery before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Sicily and go on a shopping spree in Palermo’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Sicily.

Before you conclude your road trip in Sicily, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Palermo.

You’ll then say farewell to Palermo. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Sicily!

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