Cheap 4-Day Sicily Road Trip from Catania to Messina and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Italy starts when you reach the incredible city of Catania, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Catania and begin your adventure in Sicily.

Catania is a popular cheap holiday destination in Italy with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Italy, Catania is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Giardino Bellini. This urban park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 16,413 reviews.

Savor the culinary delights of Catania, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Ristorante da Antonio, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Il Gambero Pazzo - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Deliziosa, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Caffè Europa offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Pasticceria Savia is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Insigne Cafè, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Sicily!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Sicily, you’ll tour 1: Catania. You'll stay in Messina for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’ve had your share of Catania, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Messina. Your travel time is around 1 hour 21 min.

Drop by the renowned Catania Cathedral. This popular cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,668 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Piazza Università. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,354 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Elephant Fountain. This fountain has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,587 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Roman Theatre of Catania. This archaeological site and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,116 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Castello Ursino. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,039 travelers, this hohenstaufen castle in southern italy is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Catania.

While exploring Sicily is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Messina has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Messina on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Sicily shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Messina is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Comparello Bello, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Osteria del Campanile, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Ristorante Porta Messina, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Prestige Bar Pasticceria Of Automatic Service Srl, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sheridan's Bar Pasticceria Gelateria. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar del Sud di Lanfranchi M. E Costa G. , another top-rated place in the area.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Sicily. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Sicily!

Day 3 of your road trip across Sicily is another proof that cheap holidays in Sicily can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Taormina, Mazzarò, and Motta Camastra. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Catania, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Taormina and set your GPS to Motta Camastra. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 30 min. Upon reaching Motta Camastra, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Villa Comunale di Taormina. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Taormina, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,121 visitors.

Ancient theatre of Taormina is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,382 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 244,264 people visit this greek theatre every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Porta Catania. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,066 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Messina and set your GPS to Mazzarò. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 39 min. Upon reaching Mazzarò, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Isola Bella. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,334 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Motta Camastra, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Taormina to Motta Camastra may take around 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Motta Camastra, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,331 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Catania. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Catania, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

A cheap, budget vacation in Catania should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Catania, try some of our top recommendations.

Lettera 82 Risto Pub stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, A Putia Dell'Ostello offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Carlito's, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Bohéme Mixology Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Circus Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Caffè Opera. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Catania!

Your budget road trip vacation in Sicily is about to end. Day 4 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Catania.

As your final day in Sicily unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Catania’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Sicily. Keep the spirit of your trip to Sicily alive with these special souvenirs.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Catania, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at DOC - DUOMO OF CATANIA, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Vuciata features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Canusciuti Sicilian Cafe is a highly recommended spot.

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!