5-Day Sicily Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Catania to Taormina and surrounding area

1 / 21
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.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in Sicily! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Catania, Taormina, Syracuse, and Cefalù.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Sicily. You will spend 2 nights in Catania and 2 nights 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Catania, 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. Ancient Theatre Of Taormina and Neapolis Archaeological Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through 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, accommodations, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Catania, landing in Catania

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Catania - Arrival day
  • More
  • Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Sicily begins as soon as you reach Catania and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Catania, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Catania 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 Giardino Bellini. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Catania. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas 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 Catania, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Ristorante da Antonio, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Lido Arcobaleno beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Lido Azzurro. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Catania tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Caffè Europa, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Insigne Cafè, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bohéme Mixology Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Sicily!

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Catania
  • Taormina
  • More

Drive 55 km, 1 hour 41 min

  • Piazza Università
  • Fountain of the Elephant
  • Basilica Cattedrale di Sant'Agata
  • Isola Bella
  • Villa Comunale di Taormina
  • Ancient theatre of Taormina
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Sicily. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Catania, Mazzarò, and Taormina. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Taormina, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Make a stop at Piazza Università. This worthwhile public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Elephant Fountain located in Catania for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Catania Cathedral. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Isola Bella. Next up is Villa Comunale Di Taormina, a highly recommended park. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Theatre Of Taormina. As one of the most popular attractions in Catania, this archeological site is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at PizzaMania Taormina, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ristorante Pizzeria Tiramisù Taormina? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli Taormina {since 1978} N°15 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Taormina.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Luraleo Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Sicily!

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Taormina
  • More

Drive 241 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Ear of Dionysius
  • Neapolis Archaeological Park
  • Temple of Apollo
  • Island of Ortigia
  • Cathedral of Syracuse
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Taormina, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Syracuse.

Ear Of Dionysius brings Taormina's character to life. This eye-catching cave is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Neapolis Archaeological Park, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Temple Of Apollo, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ortygia. This romantic historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cathedral Of Syracuse, a beloved church, and take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Taormina.

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

Savor the flavors at Osteria Il Vicoletto, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tischi Toschi Taormina beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Siciliano Taormina Osteria Pizzeria. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Taormina tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Sicily!

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Taormina
  • Catania
  • More

Drive 418 km, 5 hours 52 min

  • Cefalù Beach
  • Porta della Pescara (Porta Marina)
  • Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa)
  • Cathedral of Cefalù
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Sicily. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Cefalù. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Catania, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Taormina is complete without Spiaggia Di Cefalù. This worthwhile beach is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Porta Pescara (porta Marina), another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Taormina, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa). This intriguing historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cefalù Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Catania. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Catania is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Catania.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Il Gambero Pazzo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Deliziosa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lettera 82 Risto Pub. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Catania tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Circus Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Caffè Opera offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Catania. Chiosco Sicilia Seltz is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Sicily!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Catania - Departure day
  • More
  • Castello Ursino
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Sicily is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Catania 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 Castello Ursino, an instagrammable castle before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Catania’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at A Putia Dell'Ostello, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Carlito's? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Catania. 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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Italy

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.