From golden coastlines to hilltop villages, our journey around Sicily was a vivid loop through history, flavor, and breathtaking scenery. Each stop, from the Baroque beauty of Noto to the rugged charm of Palermo, offered a new layer of the island’s soul. This circular route wasn’t just a trip, it was a slow, sensory dive into Sicily’s timeless rhythm. While Sicily is lovely from spring to autumn, summer stands out for its vibrant coastal life, warm evenings, and countless opportunities to relax on some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches.
Catania
We recommend starting your Sicilian adventure in Catania.It’s a lively, history-rich town on the island’s eastern coast, nestled at the foot of the magnificent Mount Etna. It’s also one of the more budget-friendly cities in Sicily, making it ideal choice for travelers. Catania’s streets pulse with energy, especially in the evenings when locals fill the piazzas, laughing over drinks or relaxing with a cold beer in hand. Villa Bellini (Giardino Bellini), the city’s most beloved park, is a peaceful spot with flower-filled gardens, bubbling fountains, and shaded walking paths..No trip to Catania would be complete without a visit to Mount Etna itself. Whether you book a guided tour or rent a car, exploring the volcano is an unforgettable experience. Adventurous travelers can hike the trails, while others might prefer the cable car or a jeep excursion up to higher altitudes. If you’re a market lover, head to Fera ‘o Luni (the Via Etnea Market at Piazza Carlo Alberto), one of the most authentic flea markets in the city. It’s packed with fresh produce, street food and quirky vintage finds at affordable prices. We suggest you to go early, to avoid the crowds. Catania is also full of cultural gems. Don’t miss key sights like the Cattedrale di Sant’Agata, the lively Piazza del Duomo, the medieval Castello Ursino, the elegant Palazzo Biscari, and the impressive Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l’Arena.It’s a former monastery turned university and UNESCO site. And we can’t forget the food. Try the city’s signature arancini (deep-fried rice balls, typically cone-shaped here), grilled horse meat, often served in sandwiches or burgers, and the city’s obsession: pistachios. Local pistachios, are used in both sweet and savory dishes, from creamy pasta sauces and gourmet pizzas to cannoli, and croissants filled with pistachio cream. Every corner of Catania is dotted with trattorias and street food stalls, where you can enjoy generous portions of authentic Sicilian cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Taormina
Taormina is a magical destination that feels like stepping into a romantic postcard. As you wander through the town, the narrow cobblestone streets and ancient stone buildings evoke an old-world, timeless charm. If you’re fascinated by ancient history, don’t miss the Ancient Theatre of Taormina (Teatro Antico).It’s a remarkable Roman amphitheater that offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, consider a trip to Castelmola. It’s about a 30- to 60-minute walk, depending on your pace, or a quick 10-minute bus ride. The best time to enjoy the walk is during the golden hour, when the soft light casts a magical glow over the town. Another highlight of Taormina is Isola Bella. It’s a small, enchanting island just off the coast. This unique spot offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and is accessible via a narrow sandbar that connects it to the mainland. You can reach Isola Bella on foot along a tree-lined path, or take the cable car (Funivia Taormina-Mazzarò) from Via Pirandello, located in the town center.
Time from Catania:
By Car: 45 minutes
By Bus: 1 hour
By Train:50 minutes to 1 hour
Syracuse
Syracuse is one of Sicily’s most captivating destinations, packed with ancient history, a blend of architecture styles, from Greek to Baroque, and natural beauty. Ortigia is the heart and soul of Syracuse, a small island connected to the mainland by bridges. It’s an island brimming with winding narrow streets, and ancient landmarks, such as Cathedral of Syracuse, the Fountain of Arethusa and just a short away the Greek Theatre stands as one of the Sicily’s most impressive ancient ruins.
Time from Catania:
By Car:1 hour
By Bus: 1 hour
By Train: 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Noto
The town of Noto is a UNESCO World Herritage Site, and rightly, so as it is one of the island’s most photogenic towns. As you stroll through its colourful streets,you will taste a great dose of art, eventually, arriving at iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Noto, the Palazzo Ducezio, and Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. You’ll also discover artisan shops showcasing traditional ceramics, where you can watch local craftsmanship in action. For a tranquil escape, head to the nearby Vendicari Nature Reserve, where pristine beaches and flocks of migrating flamingos offer a serene, natural retreat.
Time from Catania:
By Car: 1 hour and 15 minutes
By Bus: 1.5 to 2 hours
By Train: About 2 hours
Cefalu
Heading to Palermo, you should make a stop at the magnificent Cefalu. This place, perched along the northern coast of Sicily, enchanting mix of heritage and seaside splendor.The town’s centerpiece is the glorious Cattedrale di Cefalu, a Norman cathedral famous for its impressive mosaics. Walking through the maze of cobbled streets, visitors can admire medieval buildings, quaint shops and cafes, enjoying the Mediterranean allure. If you are looking for swimming, Cefalù’s beach ideal for a swim. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters make it a perfect seaside escape.
Time from Catania:
By Car: 2 hours
By Bus: 5 hours
By Train: 3 to 40 minutes
Palermo
Our ideal suggestion is to stay in Palermo for three days. In that time, you’ll have the opportunity to see the top sights and explore the city’s rich medieval character. Palermo has a multi-dimensional identity, shaped by a blend of historical influences—including Arab, Roman, Norman, Byzantine, and others. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo). Be sure to step inside the Palatine Chapel to admire some of the finest Byzantine mosaics and Arab-Norman architecture in all of Europe. In the heart of Palermo, explore the majestic Norman Palace with its dazzling Palatine Chapel, admire the baroque grandeur of Quattro Canti at the crossroads of history, and experience world-class opera at the iconic Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest and most renowned opera house.
Time from Cefalu:
By Car:1 hour
By Bus: 1 hour and 20 minutes.
By Train: 45 to 55 minutes.
Ragusa
Ragusa, is an extraordinary hilltop town in southern Sicily. It’s a city famous for its Baroque architecture. Divides into two parts, Ragusa Superiore and the historic Ragusa Ibla, the town beautifully blends ancient and modern eras. While exploring the winding lanes of Ragusa Ibla, you’ll discover churches adorned with elegant details, such as the Cathedral of San Giorgio. Be sure to try the local dishes and savor the island’s rich culinary traditions.
Time from Catania:
By Car: 1 hour 20 minutes
By Bus: 2 to 3 hours
By Train: 3+ hours