Sicily one week itinerary
Italy itinerary
Created by:
itinerary-hub
Published on:
Sept. 18, 2020
7 days
731 km
6 steps
This one week itinerary is a great way to explore the beautiful island of Sicily. You will get to see some of Sicily amazing towns and cities full of history and many with stunning views over the Etna and great beaches.
Step 1: Palermo
2 days recommended
Palermo
Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, packs a serious punch when it comes to culture, history, and gastronomy. This Mediterranean city has been shaped by countless civilizations - from Phoenicians and Romans to Arabs and Normans - each leaving distinct marks on its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
The city's historic center displays a fascinating mix of styles, with stunning landmarks like the golden mosaics of the Norman Palace and the imposing Cathedral showcasing its layered past. The street markets - especially Ballarò and Vucciria - burst with local energy, offering a sensory overload of sights, smells, and flavors. Here vendors loudly advertise their fresh seafood, local produce, and Sicilian specialties in the distinctive local dialect.
Palermo's food scene deserves special attention. The city is famous for street food like arancini (fried rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), and the somewhat intimidating but delicious pani ca' meusa (spleen sandwich). The Arab influence is evident in desserts like cassata and cannoli, which pair perfectly with a granita on hot summer days.
Beyond the tourist hotspots, Palermo reveals itself as a city of contradictions - crumbling palazzos next to restored baroque buildings, chaotic traffic alongside peaceful hidden courtyards. Despite its occasional rough edges, the city's authentic character and the warmth of Palermitans make it an unforgettable Italian destination.
step 1: Palermo
Get Directions
step 2: Agrigento
Step 2: Agrigento
1 days recommended
Agrigento
Agrigento, located on Sicily's southern coast, is a remarkable destination that offers visitors a special blend of ancient history and Mediterranean beauty. The city's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece itself. The Temple of Concordia stands almost completely intact after 2,500 years - pretty incredible when you think about it.
Beyond the ancient ruins, Agrigento has a charming historic center with narrow medieval streets that wind up and down the hillside. The views from the old town out to the Mediterranean Sea are spectacular, especially at sunset.
The local cuisine here is worth exploring too - featuring fresh seafood, pistachios, and excellent local wines. The area has been influenced by various civilizations over the centuries, including Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans, which is reflected in both the architecture and food.
The beaches near Agrigento, like the white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi, provide a beautiful contrast to the ancient history. The climate is typically Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters, making it a good year-round destination, though spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the outdoor archaeological sites.
step 2: Agrigento
step 3: Syracuse
Step 3: Syracuse
1 days recommended
Syracuse
Syracuse, a stunning coastal city on Sicily's eastern side, brings together over 2,700 years of history with modern Mediterranean charm. Once a powerful Greek city-state that rivaled Athens, Syracuse today spreads across mainland Sicily and the small island of Ortigia, connected by bridges.
The city's historic center on Ortigia island is a maze of narrow streets lined with honey-colored baroque buildings, leading to picturesque squares and seaside promenades. The magnificent Duomo stands as a perfect example of Syracuse's layered history - originally a Greek temple whose massive Doric columns are still visible within the current cathedral's structure.
Beyond Ortigia, the Archaeological Park of Neapolis showcases Greek and Roman ruins, including an impressive Greek theater where classical plays are still performed today. The mysterious Ear of Dionysius, a cave with extraordinary acoustics, sparks imagination with stories of an ancient tyrant eavesdropping on his prisoners.
Syracuse's food scene celebrates Sicilian culinary traditions with fresh seafood, arancini, and sweet treats like cannoli. The local markets burst with color and Mediterranean flavors. With its blend of architectural treasures, archaeological wonders, and waterfront beauty, Syracuse offers visitors a genuine Sicilian experience where ancient history feels surprisingly alive and present.
Step 4: Catania
1 days recommended
Catania
Catania, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, sits in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano. This Sicilian city offers a gritty but authentic Italian experience, with its distinctive architecture built from volcanic stone that gives the buildings their characteristic dark gray color.
The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning Baroque buildings and piazzas. The Piazza del Duomo stands as the heart of Catania, home to the city's cathedral and the famous Elephant Fountain, a symbol of the city dating back to the Roman era. The local fish market (La Pescheria) brings vibrant energy each morning as vendors loudly advertise their fresh catches.
Catania's food scene is a major highlight, blending traditional Sicilian flavors with local specialties. Street food like arancini (fried rice balls) and pasta alla Norma (named after Bellini's opera) originated here. The city has a fascinating relationship with Mount Etna - while the volcano has destroyed Catania multiple times throughout history, the fertile volcanic soil supports the region's incredible agriculture.
With a history spanning Greek, Roman, Arab, and Spanish rule, Catania's cultural tapestry is complex and fascinating. The city maintains a less touristy feel than other Sicilian destinations, offering visitors a more authentic glimpse into everyday Italian life. The locals, known as Catanese, are proud of their distinct dialect and traditions that set them apart even within Sicily.
Step 5: Taormina
1 days recommended
Taormina
Taormina is a small town perched high on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea on Sicily's east coast. With its backdrop of Mount Etna - Europe's most active volcano - and stunning Mediterranean views, it's no wonder this place has been a tourist hotspot since the 19th century.
The town's ancient Greek Theater (Teatro Antico) stands as its most famous landmark. Built in the 3rd century BC and later expanded by the Romans, this remarkably preserved structure offers not just a glimpse into history but also spectacular panoramic views that combine sea, mountains, and ruins in one frame.
Taormina's main street, Corso Umberto, runs through the heart of town and is lined with designer shops, cafes, and restaurants. The street connects two historic gates - Porta Messina and Porta Catania - and is perfect for the traditional Italian evening stroll, or 'passeggiata'.
Beyond its natural beauty and archaeological treasures, Taormina has been a creative haven for writers and artists like D.H. Lawrence and Oscar Wilde. The town has a vibrant cultural scene with an international film festival and various art exhibitions throughout the year. The local cuisine features Sicilian specialties like arancini, granita, and fresh seafood dishes that reflect the island's rich culinary heritage.
Step 6: Cefalù
1 days recommended
Cefalù
Cefalù is a charming coastal town located on the northern shore of Sicily, Italy. With its rich history dating back to ancient times, this beautiful spot offers a perfect mix of historical attractions, stunning beaches, and tasty local cuisine.
The town is dominated by its impressive Norman cathedral, built in the 12th century, which stands tall against the backdrop of a massive rock formation called La Rocca. This cathedral isn't just pretty to look at - it contains some of the most important Byzantine mosaics in Sicily, with a magnificent Christ Pantocrator that draws art enthusiasts from all over.
Walking through Cefalù's narrow medieval streets feels like stepping back in time. The old fishing harbor adds to the town's character, with colorful boats bobbing in the water and fishermen bringing in their daily catch. Local restaurants serve up amazing seafood dishes that showcase Sicily's culinary traditions.
The town became even more famous after it was featured in the classic Italian film 'Cinema Paradiso'. These days, Cefalù strikes a nice balance between being a popular tourist destination and maintaining its authentic Italian atmosphere. With crystal clear waters, a pleasant Mediterranean climate, and that laid-back Sicilian lifestyle, it's easy to see why so many travelers fall in love with this seaside town.