5-Day Sicily Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Catania to Taormina and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Sicily on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through 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 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 got 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. Marvel at the remarkable Giardino Bellini, learn more about the unique Temple Of Apollo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cefalù Cathedral.
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, 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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Day 1
- Catania - Arrival day
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- Villa Bellini/Chiosco Bellini
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Welcome to Catania, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Italy! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Catania's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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, 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 Catania. 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 Catania, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante da Antonio, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Lido Arcobaleno? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Lido Azzurro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Sicily!
Day 2
- Catania
- Taormina
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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
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On day 2 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 Catania, Mazzarò, and Taormina. In the evening, you’ll end up in Taormina, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Start your day with a visit to Piazza Università. This intriguing public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Elephant Fountain, which may be one of the most symbolic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Catania on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Catania Cathedral, a frequently visited church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Isola Bella and Villa Comunale Di Taormina. End your day with a visit to Ancient Theatre Of Taormina, an interesting archeological site that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Taormina's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at PizzaMania Taormina, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ristorante Pizzeria Tiramisù Taormina beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli Taormina since 1978 N°15. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Taormina tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Luraleo Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Don Diego Gelateria Caffetteria is another popular option for a drink or two.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Sicily!
Day 3
- Taormina
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Ear of Dionysius
- Neapolis Archaeological Park
- Temple of Apollo
- Island of Ortigia
- Cathedral of Syracuse
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On day 3 of your road trip in Sicily, you’ll start and end your day in Taormina, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Taormina for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Syracuse to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Taormina, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ear Of Dionysius, an intriguing cave in the city. Then, head to Neapolis Archaeological Park and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Taormina, and when you are ready for more, go to Temple Of Apollo. This is one of the city’s most well-known breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the curiosity-inducing Ortygia. Not far away, you'll also find Cathedral Of Syracuse. This church is a symbolic highlight in Taormina.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Taormina and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Taormina. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Osteria Il Vicoletto, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tischi Toschi Taormina is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Siciliano Taormina Osteria Pizzeria. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Taormina tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Sicily!
Day 4
- Taormina
- Catania
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Drive 418 km, 5 hours 52 min
- Cefalù Beach
- Porta della Pescara (Porta Marina)
- Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa)
- Cathedral of Cefalù
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Sicily, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cefalù. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Catania, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Taormina is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a beach, a historical landmark, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Spiaggia Di Cefalù and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Porta Pescara (porta Marina), a history-steeped historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Lavatoio Medievale Fiume Cefalino - Cefalù (pa), one of the town’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Cefalù Cathedral.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Catania. 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 delicious dinner at Il Gambero Pazzo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Deliziosa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lettera 82 Risto Pub. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Catania.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Circus Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Caffè Opera, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Chiosco Sicilia Seltz likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Sicily and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Catania - Departure day
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- Castello Ursino
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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, a culturally significant castle before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Sicily by visiting Catania’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Via Etnea. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Sicily. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Sicily, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Catania.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Carlito's, another premier location with a delectable 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!
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