📷 Jacek Dylag / Unsplash (Unsplash License)
This seven-day route connects the most famous cities of eastern and northern Sicily in a natural direction of travel, without backtracking. From Palermo and Cefalù, through Taormina and Etna, to Catania, Syracuse and Noto, Arab-Norman history, ancient Greek sites, Baroque architecture and volcanic landscapes follow one after another. Thanks to short daily drives, there is plenty of time to explore the cities, swim and take breaks along the way. The route is at its most beautiful from April to October.
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The route begins in Palermo, a city where Arab, Norman, and Baroque heritage intertwine. The tour leads through the historic center, the Ballarò and Vucciria markets, Quattro Canti, the Palermo Cathedral, and Teatro Massimo. Not far from the city lies Monreale, whose cathedral is renowned for its golden Byzantine mosaics and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Entry to the church itself is free, but the treasury, crypts, and roof are paid — a combined ticket costs around 7 EUR. The roof can be visited separately for 5 EUR.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket includes the Cappella Palatina and the royal apartments. On Sundays, access is restricted due to parliamentary sessions — it is recommended to check the schedule and book online in advance.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket is purchased at the entrance. Photography without flash is allowed in most corridors. Not recommended for children under 8 years of age and persons sensitive to such scenes.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The coastal drive leads to Cefalù, a medieval town nestled between the sea and the La Rocca rock. In the historic center stands a Norman cathedral with Byzantine mosaics, while narrow stone streets lead down to the town's sandy beach. Those looking for a more active visit can climb La Rocca, which offers a panoramic view of the historic core and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Entrance includes access to the cathedral and cloisters. A morning visit is recommended due to the strong light on the mosaics. Modest attire is required.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Entry to the trail is paid at the gate in the old quarter. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the steep stone paths. Open from early morning; sunset offers exceptional views.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket includes the entire collection across four floors. The museum is relatively low in visitors during the morning hours, so that is the recommended time to visit. An audio guide is available for an additional fee.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
An elegant city perched on a cliff above the Ionian Sea, known for its Greco-Roman theatre with views of Etna and the Sicilian coastline. Corso Umberto runs through the historic center, past squares, palaces, boutiques and cafés, while a cable car connects the city with the cove of Mazzarò and the beach of Isola Bella.
The ticket includes access to the theater and the small museum within the complex. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and direct sunlight.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
A full day dedicated to Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. The ascent leads through fields of hardened lava and volcanic landscape up to the high craters, with views stretching across eastern Sicily all the way to the Ionian Sea. Depending on volcanic activity, the final part of the tour takes place in the company of licensed guides. In the evening, the journey continues toward Catania, at the foot of the volcano.
Entry to the crater zone requires a guide and appropriate equipment. The price includes cable car transfer to 2,500m, where the hiking begins. Advance booking is recommended.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The price includes the cable car ride from Nicolosi (Rifugio Sapienza). The craters can be visited independently, without a guide. The ticket is purchased at the cable car ticket office.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The museum is open throughout the year, closed on Mondays. Tickets are purchased at the entrance, group visits require prior notice.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
A city built from volcanic stone, at the foot of Etna. The tour leads through the baroque historic center around Piazza del Duomo, Fontana dell'Elefante, and the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, along with the unmissable fish market La Pescheria, one of the symbols of everyday life in Catania. The day ends with an exploration of a city that serves as a natural transition between the volcanic Etna and the baroque southeast of Sicily.
The ticket includes access to the visible excavations. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online. A visit before noon is recommended due to the heat in summer.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket includes entry to the museum and all permanent exhibitions. The museum is closed on Tuesdays. The ground floor is accessible for strollers.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Syracuse — Ortygia and the Ancient City of Archimedes – Once one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Greek world and the birthplace of Archimedes. The historic island of Ortygia is home to a cathedral built around an ancient temple of Athena and the Arethusa Fountain, a natural freshwater spring right by the sea. The Neapolis Archaeological Park contains a Greek theatre and the cave known as the Ear of Dionysius, renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
The ticket includes the Paolo Orsi Museum located nearby. Combined tickets are also available. In summer, arriving before 9am is recommended due to the heat.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Combined ticket with Neapolis. A visit after touring the archaeological park is recommended for better context.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Entry is symbolic. The church is open during the day with short breaks for liturgies. The facade is particularly striking in the evening hours when it is illuminated.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket is inexpensive and includes access to all interior spaces. Arriving before sunset is recommended — the view of the sea from the fortress terraces is extraordinary.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The last day of the route leads through the historic center of Noto, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and one of the finest examples of Sicilian Baroque. Corso Vittorio Emanuele connects the Cathedral of San Nicolò, Palazzo Ducezio, and a series of Baroque churches and palaces built from golden limestone. In the late afternoon, the facades take on a warm golden hue, giving Noto a special appearance before the return to the airport in Catania.
The ticket for the interior costs around 3 EUR and includes a visit to the Salone degli Specchi. Opening hours vary by season, so it is advisable to check locally before visiting.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Admission to the church and small museum is around 3 EUR. The terrace is included in the ticket and offers a lovely view of the neighboring baroque palaces. A morning visit is recommended.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Everything you need for Sicily by Car in 7 Days — Coast, Etna and Baroque in one place
