7-Day Sicily Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Palermo traveling east to Catania

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Explore the best of Sicily on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Palermo, Cefalù, Taormina, Catania, Syracuse, and Agrigento. 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 4 nights in Palermo and 2 nights in Catania. 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, Cefalù, Taormina, Catania, Syracuse, and Agrigento, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Foro Italico
Norman PalacePalermo CathedralQuattro CantiFontana PretoriaOrto botanico di PalermoSantuario di Santa Rosalia, Palermo
Castello di CefalùRocca di CefalùCathedral of CefalùPorta della Pescara (Porta Marina)Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa)Cefalù Beach
Chiesa Madonna della RoccaPorta CataniaBasilica of St. Nicholas of BariAncient theatre of TaorminaVilla Comunale di TaorminaIsola Bella
Ear of DionysiusNeapolis Archaeological ParkTemple of ApolloFountain of DianaIsland of OrtigiaCathedral of Syracuse
Tempio Di Zeus OlympiosTemple of HeraclesValle dei TempliMuseo archeologico regionale Pietro Griffo
Catacombe dei Cappuccini

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Palermo - Arrival day
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  • Foro Italico
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Your road trip adventure in Sicily begins as soon as you reach Palermo and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Palermo for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Palermo. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cotto e Bollito, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bebop offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Eremiti Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Palermo.

Continue your lively evening at Malox Cult, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Ai Giudici is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Italico ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Sicily!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Palermo
  • More

Drive 31 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Norman Palace
  • Palermo Cathedral
  • Quattro Canti
  • Fontana Pretoria
  • Orto botanico di Palermo
  • Santuario di Santa Rosalia, Palermo
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Palermo for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Norman Palace. This notable palace is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Palermo Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Quattro Canti, one of the most notable places to see in Palermo. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Fontana Pretoria. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Orto Botanico Di Palermo, a top-rated botanical garden that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the underrated Santuario Di Santa Rosalia, Palermo, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

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 delicious dinner at Osteria Mercede, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Trattoria Del Massimo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Palermo.

Keep the evening going at Spina Bar Palermo, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Torrefazione Castagnetta Massimiliano (gelateria), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Monkey Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Palermo
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Drive 145 km, 2 hours 34 min

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Sicily, you’ll start and end your day in Palermo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Palermo for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Cefalù to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Palermo. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Castello Di Cefalù is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Palermo. Next, head to Rocca Di Cefalù, a locally appreciated castle, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Cefalù Cathedral. This inviting church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Porta Pescara (porta Marina) adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa), a visually striking historical landmark in Palermo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Palermo and your accommodation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Splendid Hotel la Torre, a top-rated dining destination in Palermo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorantino Sobremesa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Quattro mani. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Palermo this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Touring offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Palermo Football Store is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Goccio - L’arte Del Miscelare is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Sicily!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Palermo
  • Catania
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Drive 332 km, 5 hours 14 min

  • Chiesa Madonna della Rocca
  • Porta Catania
  • Basilica of St. Nicholas of Bari
  • Ancient theatre of Taormina
  • Villa Comunale di Taormina
  • Isola Bella
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Sicily, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Taormina and Mazzarò. In the evening, you’ll end up in Catania, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at Chiesa Madonna Della Rocca. This increasingly popular church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Porta Catania, a must-see monument in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Basilica Of St. Nicholas Of Bari. This worthwhile church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Ancient Theatre Of Taormina, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Villa Comunale Di Taormina and Villa Comunale Di Taormina. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante da Antonio, a top-rated dining destination in Catania. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lido Arcobaleno, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lido Azzurro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Catania this evening.

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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Catania
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Drive 138 km, 2 hours 12 min

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Catania, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Syracuse. You still have 1 night left in Catania.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Catania on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ear Of Dionysius is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped cave before continuing your journey. Neapolis Archaeological Park is your next stop. This notable archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Catania.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Temple Of Apollo. This culturally significant archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Diana Fountain and Ortygia. If time allows, end your day with Cathedral Of Syracuse, a romantic church that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

As you explore more of Catania, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Il Gambero Pazzo, a highly-rated dining destination in Catania. If you're eager to try something different, consider Deliziosa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lettera 82 Risto Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Catania this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Circus Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffè Opera offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Chiosco Sicilia Seltz is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Catania and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Sicily!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Catania
  • Palermo
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Drive 293 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Tempio Di Zeus Olympios
  • Temple of Heracles
  • Valle dei Templi
  • Museo archeologico regionale Pietro Griffo
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Sicily, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Agrigento. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Palermo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Temple Of Olympian Zeus. Then, wander over to Temple Of Heracles. If historic sites excite you, this archeological site will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Valle Dei Templi. This breathtaking archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Catania offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Archaeological Museum "pietro Griffo" Of Agrigento is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Trattoria Ai Cascinari, a top-rated dining spot in Palermo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Villa Boscogrande - Chef Natale Di Maria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at MadoniEAT. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Palermo.

Continue your lively evening at Pasticceria Massaro, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Sanremo - Palermo is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Touring ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Palermo - Departure day
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  • Catacombe dei Cappuccini
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Day 7 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, begin at Catacombe Dei Cappuccini. This interesting cemetery is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Sicily, take time to indulge in shopping at Palermo’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try RISTORANTE PRIMI PIATTI, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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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