Sicily Explorer Journey Self-Drive

Arrive at Palermo Airport and collect your car before driving to your hotel in the city. After settling in, spend the afternoon exploring Palermo’s historic centre on foot. We take you to see the remarkable Capella Palatina, a private chapel built by Norman King Roger II, renowned for its intricate mosaics blending Arab and Byzantine styles. You’ll also visit the Cathedral, a unique structure that stands on a site once home to a Roman temple, a Byzantine basilica and later a mosque, reflecting Palermo’s layered history. Complete your tour with a visit to La Martorana Church, famous for its stunning mosaics. Overnight in Palermo.

After breakfast, we drive to Taormina and check into your hotel. Once settled, we take a walking tour of this charming town, exploring its key highlights. We visit the remarkable Greek Theatre and the ancient Roman Odeon, both offering a vivid sense of the past. From Piazza IX Aprile, we enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and surrounding hills. As we wander the quaint streets, we admire the Duomo’s elegant façade. To finish the day, you might like to sample the famous granita with brioche at one of Taormina’s oldest cafés, a local favourite. Overnight in Taormina.

After a hearty breakfast, set off on a self-guided exploration of Mount Etna. Drive to one of the main starting points, such as Rifugio Sapienza or Piano Provenzana, where you can follow marked trails ascending the mountainside. As you climb, take in the striking landscapes shaped by centuries of volcanic activity, from ancient lava flows to more recent eruptions. Informative boards along the paths offer insights into the region’s unique geology. For a deeper understanding, consider visiting the Etna Park Visitor Centre in Nicolosi, which features interactive exhibits on the volcano’s formation and impact. If you prefer a gentler walk, explore the pine forests on the lower slopes. After your mountain adventure, visit one of the local wineries on Etna’s slopes. Many provide tastings or tours where we sample the region’s renowned wines, accompanied by Sicilian specialities. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the picturesque countryside before returning to Taormina for the evening.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before making your own way to Syracuse. In the afternoon, explore Ortigia, the historic heart of Sicily’s southeast. Begin at Piazza del Duomo to admire the impressive Syracuse Cathedral, built atop the remains of a Greek temple. Wander the narrow streets, taking in the Baroque architecture and vibrant local atmosphere. Visit the Fountain of Arethusa, a freshwater spring linked to Greek mythology, then stroll along the waterfront promenade for scenic sea views. Don’t miss the Temple of Apollo, one of Sicily’s oldest Greek temples, and take time to browse the bustling markets where you can sample authentic Sicilian treats. Overnight in Syracuse.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before a free day to relax at your own pace. We recommend spending some time at the stunning beaches of Fontane Bianche or Arenella, both known for their pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. As the day draws to a close, consider visiting Marzamemi, a charming old fishing village on the Ionian Sea. The village sits just below sea level, offering peaceful views of small boats bobbing in the harbour. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy an aperitif or dinner while taking in the tranquil seaside atmosphere. Overnight in Syracuse.

After breakfast, travel to your hotel in Noto. We recommend exploring this city, celebrated for its stunning Baroque architecture. Begin at the impressive Noto Cathedral, an 18th-century building carefully rebuilt following an earthquake. Admire its intricate façade before crossing the street to Palazzo Ducezio, now the town hall, where you can visit the ornate Hall of Mirrors, decorated with gilding and stuccoes. As you stroll through Noto’s elegant streets, take in the harmonious design of its palaces, churches and balconies, all fine examples of Sicilian Baroque style. Pause at Porta Reale, the grand ceremonial entrance to the city, and enjoy the lively yet tranquil atmosphere. Wander along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where you’ll find charming cafés, boutique shops and hidden courtyards. Consider stopping for a refreshing granita or sampling Noto’s famous almond pastries before continuing your exploration at your own pace. Overnight in Noto.

After breakfast, we drive to Ragusa, one of Sicily’s most captivating Baroque towns, rebuilt following the 1693 earthquake. We begin in Ragusa Ibla, the historic centre, wandering through streets lined with grand noble mansions and ornate churches. We visit the striking Duomo di San Giorgio, a prime example of Sicilian Baroque architecture, and take in the atmosphere of Piazza Duomo. Along the way, we explore charming alleyways, hidden courtyards and terraces offering panoramic views over the city. In the afternoon, we continue to Modica, renowned for its distinctive chocolate-making tradition. From a scenic viewpoint, enjoy sweeping views of the hillside town with its golden Baroque façades. We then descend into the town centre, following the stairways to Corso Umberto I, where cafés, boutiques and historic churches await. Here, we visit one of Modica’s oldest chocolatiers to sample the famous grainy chocolate made using an ancient Aztec-inspired technique. Take your time savouring the flavours and exploring this enchanting town before returning to Noto for the night.

After breakfast, drive to Agrigento, your next destination. We include a visit to the Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily’s most impressive archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the ancient city of Akragas, founded in 581 BC, the site offers a remarkable insight into Greek civilisation. Begin at the main entrance near the Temple of Juno, an elegant Doric temple set on a hill with panoramic views. Follow the marked paths to explore the remains of five Doric temples, including the exceptionally well-preserved Temple of Concordia, renowned for its intact colonnade. Along the way, you’ll see sanctuaries, altars and ancient city walls, with informative signs providing historical context. Take your time to absorb the scale and significance of this extraordinary site at your own pace. Overnight in Agrigento.

After breakfast, spend another day exploring Agrigento and its surroundings. You might visit the striking Scala dei Turchi, a dramatic white limestone cliff rising from the Mediterranean, where you can relax on the sandy beach or climb the natural terraces for sweeping coastal views. Alternatively, consider a trip to Marsala, known for its historic centre and famous wine. Wander its elegant streets, visit Piazza della Repubblica, and stop at a local enoteca to sample Marsala wine. For a blend of history and seaside charm, head to Trapani to explore its Baroque churches, waterfront, and old town. Nearby, the Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco offer a unique landscape of windmills and salt pools, showcasing traditional salt harvesting. For a memorable experience, visit Erice, a medieval hilltop town with cobbled streets, the well-preserved Castello di Venere, and renowned almond pastries at historic pastry shops. Overnight in Agrigento.

After breakfast, spend a leisurely morning in Agrigento before driving to Palermo for your final night. This allows you some free time to relax or explore at your own pace before settling into your hotel in Palermo.

Enjoy your final Sicilian breakfast before driving to Palermo Airport to return your car and prepare for your onward journey.