Explore Sicily in 14 days with this epic Sicily road trip itinerary. From ancient ruins to seaside towns, experience the best of Sicily from Palermo and back!

The church of St Cataldo in Palermo. It is mmust see in one day in Palermo Sicily
The church of St Cataldo in Palermo

If there’s one adventure that still lingers in my memory like Sicilian sunshine, it’s my two-week road trip around Sicily. This itinerary isn’t just a random list of stops – it’s curated based on the exact road trip I did, a 14-day Sicily road trip loop that starts and ends in Palermo. And let me tell you, it’s a trip packed with history, coastal drives, Baroque towns, mouthwatering food, and more sunsets than I can count.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. 

Why Take a Sicily Road Trip?

The Temple of Hera in the Valley of the Temples Italy
The Temple of Hera in the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento, Sicily

Sicily is an island that truly comes alive when explored by car. Yes, you can visit the big cities by train or bus, but driving gives you the freedom to wind your way along coastal cliffs, pull over for spontaneous swims, discover tucked-away villages, and dive into landscapes that buses simply bypass. Sicily is diverse: Greek temples, Norman cathedrals, sandy beaches, medieval towns, volcanic landscapes – all within just a few hours’ drive of one another.

If you love the idea of waking up in a new corner of the island every couple of days, Sicily is the perfect place for a road trip.

Planning Your Sicily Road Trip

The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip Map
Map of the Ultimate Sicily Road Trip

How long should you stay?

Two weeks is the sweet spot. You’ll cover most of the highlights without rushing and still have time for gelato breaks, seaside lunches, and a few leisurely mornings.

Getting to Sicily

Most international travelers fly into Palermo or Catania. Since this itinerary is a loop, I started in Palermo – it makes for a convenient beginning and end. Alternatively, you can start and end your trip in Catania. I rented a car at Palermo airport and started my Sicily road trip from there. However, you can also rent a car at Catania Airport and start your road trip through Sicily from there. You can find truly affordable rental cars at both airports. Check out affordable rental cars at Palermo Airport here and Catania Airport here.

Best time to visit Sicily

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the ideal times. The weather is warm but not scorching, the sea is swimmable, and the crowds are manageable. Summer is beautiful, but it can be hot and busy. I did my Sicily road trip in May and had sunny days with no crowds. I can’t recommend May enough for a road trip in Sicily!

Where to stay in Sicily

On a two-week Sicily road trip, I picked up wonderful boutique hotels with parking – it makes life infinitely easier.

Driving in Sicily

Driving in Sicily has a reputation – and yes, locals drive with passion! But don’t worry, it’s very doable if you stay alert. I drove 1,630 km across Sicily and had no issues. Highways are good, rural roads are scenic, and the freedom a road trip through Sicily gives you is worth it.

Tips for a smooth Sicily road trip

  • Book accommodation in advance, especially in summer.
  • Reserve your rental car early – Sicily gets busy. Check out affordable rental cars at Palermo Airport here and Catania Airport here.
  • Download Google Maps offline – cell service can be patchy in the countryside.
  • Be aware of ZTL (limited traffic) zones in towns – fines are common.
  • Plan parking before entering old towns to avoid stress. I have written a detailed travel guide for each place on my Sicily road trip itinerary. You can find the parking places in the travel guides.

The Ultimate 14-Day Sicily Road Trip Itinerary

Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, it’s worth noting how this journey is structured. For the first two days, you’ll explore Palermo on foot – no car is needed, and in fact, driving in Palermo can be stressful due to traffic and ZTL zones. The official road trip begins on Day 3, when you pick up your rental car from Palermo Airport and start the loop around the island. This way, you get the best of both worlds: a stress-free city exploration followed by the freedom of the open road.

Day 1: Palermo

Touring the cathedral is among the best things to do in Palermo italy
Palermo Cathedral

Palermo is the ideal place to begin your Sicilian journey. The city is bold, bustling, and unapologetically authentic. Wandering its streets feels like stepping into a vibrant mix of cultures that have shaped the island for centuries – from Arab domes and Norman palaces to Baroque churches and bustling food markets. For luxury & old-world charm, I recommend staying at Grand Hotel Villa Igiea. It’s a dreamy historical villa with sea views that feels like stepping into a Sicilian movie.


Start your day with a guided walking tour of Palermo’s historic center. Visit the Palermo Cathedral, a stunning architectural patchwork reflecting Sicily’s layered history. Just around the corner lies Quattro Canti, a grand baroque square often called the “theater of the city.” Be sure to stop at the Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house, whose grandeur rivals Paris and Vienna.

Food offer on Vucceria market. Visiting the Vucceria market is a must while spending 2 days in Palermo Sicily
A food market in Palermo

No visit to Palermo is complete without experiencing its street markets. Ballarò Market is an explosion of colors, scents, and sounds where vendors shout the day’s offerings and stalls overflow with spices, seafood, fruits, and sweets. Grab an arancina (fried rice ball) or a panelle (chickpea fritter) as a snack while exploring. (Read my detailed Guide to the Must-Try Palermo foods).

End your day by strolling through Piazza Pretoria with its famous fountain and perhaps enjoy dinner in one of the trattorias serving Sicilian classics like pasta alla Norma or fresh seafood. Palermo can be chaotic, but that’s part of its charm – it’s a city that immerses you immediately in Sicilian life. Read more: 20 Unforgettable Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily.

Day 2: Palermo & Monreale

Mosaics in the apse of Monreale Cathedral
Mosaics in the apse of Monreale Cathedral

After a full day in Palermo, day two allows you to slow down while adding a breathtaking excursion. Spend the morning visiting any sites you missed – perhaps the Palatine Chapel inside the Norman Palace, with its glittering Byzantine mosaics, or relax with a coffee at a historic café like Antico Caffè Spinnato.

By midday, head to Monreale, just a 1-hour bus ride (from Indipendenza Palazzo Reale in Palermo) or a 30-minute taxi ride away. This hilltop town is world-famous for its Cathedral of Monreale, a masterpiece of Norman architecture. The interior is covered in over 6,000 square meters of shimmering golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes – one of the most impressive displays in Europe. Don’t miss the cloisters, with their intricately carved columns, each one unique. From Monreale’s terraces, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the Conca d’Oro valley and Palermo below. You can visit Monreale independently or take this 3-hour private tour of the Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale.

Return to Palermo in the late afternoon and enjoy a leisurely evening. You might explore the seaside promenade or treat yourself to gelato in one of the artisanal shops. This day balances city buzz with peaceful reflection, giving you a well-rounded Palermo experience before you set off on the road.
Read more in my guide to How To Spend 2 Perfect Days in Palermo, Sicily!

Day 3: Palermo → Segesta → Scopello → Trapani

the temple of Segesta Sicily
Temple of Segesta, Sicily

Day three marks the true start of your Sicily road trip. Pick up your rental car from Palermo airport and head west toward Segesta. This archaeological park is only 55 km (35 minutes) from Palermo Airport. Segesta is home to a remarkably preserved Greek Doric temple, standing proudly amid rolling hills, and a hilltop theater with breathtaking views. Even if you’ve seen Greek ruins before, the solitude and serenity of Segesta make it unforgettable. Read more: A Complete Guide to Segesta, Sicily.

The historic Tonnara di Scopello in Sicily, Italy . It is a must-see on a 2-week Sicily road trip
The historic Tonnara di Scopello in Sicily, Italy.

From Segesta, drive 30 km (35 minutes) to the charming coastal village of Scopello. Here, dramatic cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, and the historic Tonnara di Scopello (an old tuna fishery) creates a postcard-perfect backdrop. It’s a wonderful place for a swim or a seafood lunch by the sea.

In the afternoon, continue your drive to Trapani, a seaside town with baroque churches, narrow lanes, and a lively seafront promenade. Check into a hotel with parking like Hotel San Michele , then head out for dinner – Trapani is known for its couscous di pesce, a Sicilian dish with North African roots. The pace slows down here compared to Palermo, and the sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea are nothing short of magical. Read more: Things to Do in Trapani, Sicily.

Day 4: Erice & Trapani Salt Fields

The Mother Church in Erice near Trapani Siicly
The Mother Church in Erice near Trapani

Base yourself in Trapani and spend today exploring one of Sicily’s most enchanting medieval towns and its unique salt heritage. Begin your morning with a cable car ride (or drive if you prefer) up to Erice, perched dramatically on a mountain overlooking Trapani and the sea. Erice is a town that feels frozen in time, with cobblestone lanes, stone archways, and medieval walls. Wander slowly, stopping into small pastry shops that are famous for genovesi ericine (custard-filled shortcrust pastries dusted with sugar). Don’t miss Castello di Venere, the Castle of Venus, where sweeping views stretch all the way to the Egadi Islands on clear days.

As you stroll, you’ll notice that Erice has a mystical, almost fairy-tale charm. Clouds often roll in, wrapping the town in mist that only enhances its atmosphere. Spend a few hours getting lost in its streets, shopping for ceramics, or enjoying a coffee in a quiet piazza. Read about the 13 Best Things to Do in Erice, Sicily!

The Salt Museum in Nubia near Trapani Sicily
The Salt Museum in Nubia near Trapani Sicily

In the afternoon, return to Trapani and make your way to the salt pans, or saline. These shallow pools, bordered by ancient windmills, have been used for salt production since Phoenician times. Today they form a breathtaking landscape, particularly at sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and orange, reflecting beautifully on the water. Some of the salt pans have small museums where you can learn about the traditional methods still in use. Bird watchers will love spotting flamingos that frequent the area.

End the evening back in Trapani, dining on fresh seafood along the seafront promenade. The mix of medieval Erice and the tranquil salt flats makes this day one of the most atmospheric of the trip.evening. You might explore the seaside promenade or treat yourself to gelato in one of the artisanal shops. This day balances city buzz with peaceful reflection, giving you a well-rounded Palermo experience before you set off on the road.

Day 5: Trapani → Selinunte → Scala dei Turchi → Agrigento

Temple E in Selinunte Sicily
Temple E in Selinunte Sicily

Today is a driving day, but one filled with incredible stops along the way. Leave Trapani in the morning and head first to Selinunte, one of Sicily’s largest and most impressive ancient Greek archaeological sites. The vast park includes temples, acropolis ruins, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Unlike other famous sites, Selinunte is often quiet, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace and imagine the grandeur of this once-thriving city. Selinunte is 93 km (1h 10 minutes) from Trapani.
Read more: A Complete Guide to Selinunte, Sicily.

Scala dei Turchi Sicily
Scala dei Turchi, Sicily

Afer vsiiting Selinunte, continue along the coast to the dazzling Scala dei Turchi, which is 85 km (1 h 20 minutes) from Selinunte. This natural wonder is a dazzling white limestone cliff shaped like a giant staircase that tumbles into the turquoise sea. Bring sandals or go barefoot and walk carefully on the smooth rock surface – it’s like nothing else in Sicily. This is a great spot to pause for a swim, sunbathe, or simply admire the surreal contrast between the brilliant white cliffs and the deep blue water. Read more: A Complete Guide to Scala dei Turchi, Sicily.

By late afternoon, drive onward to Agrigento, a city that blends modern life with ancient history. Agrigento is only 15 km (20 minutes) away. Check into Villa Athena Hotel, a five-star property nestled inside the Valley of the Temples – having parking here is a huge advantage. Agrigento is lively and has plenty of trattorias serving traditional Sicilian fare. Take it easy tonight, as tomorrow you’ll explore one of Sicily’s crown jewels.

Day 6: Agrigento & Valley of the Temples

The Temple of Concordia within the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento Sicily
The Temple of Concordia within the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento Sicily

Today is dedicated to one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in all of Italy – the Valley of the Temples. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece itself. The setting is extraordinary: temples perched on ridges, surrounded by almond groves and overlooking the sea. The Temple of Concordia is especially striking, standing almost entirely intact after more than two millennia.

Plan to spend at least half a day here. The site is spread out, so wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be prepared for some walking. Guided tours are available if you’d like deeper insight into the history and symbolism of the temples. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal – the light is softer, temperatures are cooler, and the golden glow makes the temples look magical.

The Artists' Staircase in Agrigento Italy
The Artists’ Staircase in Agrigento Italy

Beyond the Valley of the Temples, Agrigento itself has its charms. The old town, with its narrow alleys and medieval churches, is worth a stroll. Stop for lunch or dinner at a local trattoria, sampling dishes like pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines, fennel, and raisins) or ricotta-filled cannoli for dessert. Read more about Agrigento: A Complete Travel Guide to Agrigento, Sicily.

The Valley of the Temples is often described as a highlight of Sicily, and it truly is. Standing before these temples, you can feel the layers of history and the importance of this island as a crossroads of the ancient world. It’s a day that will leave you in awe and give you a deeper appreciation for Sicily’s place in Mediterranean history. Read more: A Vistors Guide to the Valley of the Temples, Sicily.

Day 7: Agrigento → Villa Romana del Casale → Ragusa

Bikini Girls mosaic in Villa Romana del Casale Sicily
Bikini Girls mosaic, Villa Romana del Casale Sicily

Today, you’ll trade coastal landscapes for the rolling hills of central Sicily as you make your way to Ragusa. On the drive, a must-stop highlight is Villa Romana del Casale, near Piazza Armerina and 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Agrigento. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most impressive Roman villas ever discovered, primarily due to its astonishingly well-preserved mosaics. As you walk through the villa, you’ll see floor after floor covered in intricate artworks, from the famous “Bikini Girls” (depicting women in athletic gear) to elaborate hunting and mythological scenes. The sheer detail and vividness of these mosaics will transport you back to Roman times, offering a glimpse into the luxury and artistry of the empire. Read more: A Guide to Visiting Villa Romana Del Casale Sicily

The Church of St Joseph in Ragusa Sicily
Chiesa di San Giuseppe, Ragusa Ibla, Sicily

After immersing yourself in Roman history, continue south to Ragusa, one of the most beautiful Baroque towns in Sicily. The city is split into two parts: the newer Ragusa Superiore and the historic Ragusa Ibla, perched on a hill and filled with narrow lanes, baroque palaces, and dramatic churches. Check into your hotel like Relais Antica Badia, a 5-star former palace with views over Ragusa Superiore and valet parking. Take your time exploring Ragusa Ibla in the evening. The highlight here is Duomo di San Giorgio, a stunning cathedral with a grand staircase leading up to it.

Dinner in Ragusa is a treat. The town is known for its refined cuisine, and there are several Michelin-starred restaurants if you want to splurge. Otherwise, even a simple trattoria will surprise you with rich flavors – try dishes made with local cheese (Ragusano DOP), tomatoes, and olive oil from the surrounding countryside. Ragusa is atmospheric by night, with softly lit streets and the domes of churches glowing against the dark sky – the perfect setting to settle into this slower, more romantic side of Sicily. Read more: A Complete Guide to Ragusa Sicily.

Day 8: Ragusa

Duomo di San Giorgio in Ragusa Ibla, Sicily
Duomo di San Giorgio in Ragusa Ibla, Sicily

Dedicate today entirely to Ragusa Ibla, the historic quarter that feels like an open-air museum. Begin with a leisurely stroll through its maze-like streets. The town is compact, but every turn reveals another picturesque square, ornate balcony, or hidden courtyard. Don’t miss the Giardino Ibleo, a peaceful public garden with shady paths, fountains, and panoramic views over the countryside – a wonderful place to pause and soak up the atmosphere.

The Duomo di San Giorgio deserves another visit by day. Its striking baroque façade, topped with an elegant dome, dominates the skyline. Inside, the details are equally breathtaking, with art and decorations that reflect the town’s deep Catholic heritage. Nearby, the Church of Santa Maria delle Scale offers a spectacular viewpoint over Ragusa Ibla’s tightly packed rooftops.

One of the joys of Ragusa is simply lingering. Stop in a café for a coffee and a pastry, perhaps trying a cannolo filled with fresh ricotta or a cassatina. Browse local shops for handmade ceramics or artisanal food products. If you’re interested in history, the small museums scattered through the town offer insights into Ragusa’s reconstruction after the devastating 1693 earthquake, which led to the baroque style that defines it today.

As evening approaches, Ragusa transforms again. Locals fill the piazzas, and the scent of Sicilian cooking drifts through the air. This is a perfect evening to savor Ragusa’s slower pace: have dinner on a terrace with views of the cathedral, taste local wines from the region, and enjoy a night stroll through streets that seem designed for romance.

Day 9: Modica & Scicli

Modica Sicily Italy
Modica Sicily Italy

From Ragusa, make the short drive to Modica, another UNESCO-listed baroque town famous not only for its architecture but also for its chocolate. Modica is only 16 km (25 minutes ) from Ragusa. The town is split into upper and lower sections, both worth exploring. Modica’s Duomo di San Giorgio is one of the most magnificent baroque churches in Sicily, with a grand staircase that gives it an almost theatrical presence. Modica is also known for its cioccolato di Modica, a grainy, Aztec-style chocolate introduced by the Spanish. Stop into one of the historic chocolatiers, like Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, to sample unique flavors such as cinnamon, chili, or citrus. Read more: Things to Do in Modica, Sicily.

The Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo in Scicli Sicily
The Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo in Scicli Sicily

After indulging in chocolate, continue to Scicli, a charming town that feels more intimate and less touristy than Ragusa or Modica. Scicli is 10 km (17 minutes) away. Its baroque churches and palazzi line wide boulevards, and its relaxed vibe makes it a joy to explore. Fans of the Italian TV series Inspector Montalbano may recognize several filming locations here. The Church of San Bartolomeo and Palazzo Beneventano are standout sights, but often the best experience is simply wandering the streets and enjoying Scicli’s unhurried rhythm.

In the evening, you can choose to return to Ragusa for another night in your charming base or stay in Modica (check out the Modica Itria hotel in Modica) for a change of scenery. Either way, this day offers a delightful mix of history, architecture, and culinary treats – and plenty of chances to slow down and savor Sicily’s baroque heartland.

Day 10: Modica → Noto → Syracuse

Noto, Sicily, Italy
Noto, Sicily, Italy

Today’s drive is one of the most beautiful in southern Sicily, weaving through baroque landscapes on your way to the coast. After leaving Modica, your first stop is Noto, often called the “Capital of Baroque.” Noto is 37 km (45 minutes) from Modica and 67 km (1 hour) from Ragusa. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, Noto’s historic center is a masterclass in harmonious design, with golden-hued limestone buildings glowing in the Sicilian sun. The Cathedral of San Nicolò, with its sweeping staircase and elegant façade, is the crown jewel, but the charm of Noto lies in wandering the Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Here, balconies overflow with wrought-iron railings, and ornate palaces line the street.

Stop for a coffee and a granita con brioche at Caffè Sicilia, one of Sicily’s most celebrated cafés, before continuing your stroll. Noto is also a great place to dip into artisan shops selling almond-based sweets and local wines. Read more: Things to Do in Noto, Italy

In the afternoon, drive to Syracuse, once a powerful Greek city and now one of Sicily’s most atmospheric destinations. Settle into your accommodation, ideally in Ortigia, the old town island connected to the mainland by bridges. Consider staying in Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel  with waterfront views, refined decor, and private parking in Ortigia. Spend your evening exploring Ortigia’s labyrinth of narrow lanes, open piazzas, and seaside promenades. Dinner here is unforgettable: fresh seafood, swordfish pasta, or simply a plate of fried anchovies paired with local white wine. Ortigia is romantic, lively, and endlessly walkable – the perfect home base for the next couple of days.

Day 11: Syracuse & Ortigia

The Cathedral of Syracuse Italy
The Cathedral of Syracuse, Italy

Dedicate today to soaking up everything Syracuse has to offer. Begin with a visit to the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where you’ll find the impressive Greek Theatre, still used for performances today, and the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave with fascinating acoustics. The scale of the ruins reminds you of Syracuse’s importance as one of the Mediterranean’s great ancient cities.

After exploring the archaeological park, head back into Ortigia, where you can easily spend the rest of the day. Visit the Duomo di Siracusa, a magnificent cathedral built on the remains of an ancient Greek temple, seamlessly blending history across centuries. The Piazza Duomo is one of Sicily’s most beautiful squares, a wide, sunlit space surrounded by elegant baroque buildings.

Chiesa di San Giovanni Alle Catacombe, Syracuse, Sicily. it is a must-see on any Sicily road trip
Chiesa di San Giovanni Alle Catacombe, Syracuse, Sicily

Don’t miss the Fountain of Arethusa, a natural freshwater spring tied to Greek mythology, located right by the sea. Wander the market streets, filled with stalls selling spices, cheeses, and dried tomatoes, then pause for a leisurely lunch at a trattoria.

In the evening, stroll along Ortigia’s seafront promenade as the sun dips into the horizon. The mix of golden architecture and the shimmering Ionian Sea makes Syracuse one of the most memorable stops on your Sicilian adventure. Read more: A Complete Travel Guide to Syracuse, Italy.

Day 12: Day Trip to Catania

Catania, Sicily. It is a must-see on a Sicily road trip
Catania is a must-see on a Sicily road trip

Today, take a day trip to Catania, about an hour’s drive from Syracuse. Catania traffic is infamous. If you don/t feel confident driving, take a train or bus from Syracuse to Catania. Catania sits in the shadow of Mount Etna and has a distinct personality shaped by both volcanic eruptions and Sicilian culture. Begin in the bustling Piazza del Duomo, home to the Cathedral of Sant’Agata and the quirky Fontana dell’Elefante, Catania’s beloved symbol.

A walk along Via Etnea, the city’s main thoroughfare, reveals grand baroque buildings crafted from black lava stone, giving Catania a darker, dramatic look compared to the golden hues of Noto or Ragusa. Don’t miss the Teatro Romano, a fascinating ancient Roman theater tucked into the heart of the city.

One of Catania’s highlights is its fish market (La Pescheria), a sensory explosion where vendors loudly display their catches of the day. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Foodies will love Catania’s street food scene – try arancini al ragù, or for dessert, a refreshing granita with pistachio. With Mount Etna looming in the background, the city feels vibrant, gritty, and very much alive.

Return to Syracuse in the evening, where the calmer, romantic vibe of Ortigia will feel like the perfect contrast to Catania’s bold energy.

Day 13: Syracuse → Taormina (+ Etna Option)

Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina Italy
Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina

This morning, leave Syracuse and drive north toward Taormina, one of Sicily’s most glamorous and picturesque destinations. Perched high above the Ionian coast, Taormina has long enchanted travelers with its breathtaking views of both the sea and Mount Etna.

Check in Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina, set beside the ancient Greek Theatre, with views to die for and private parking. Start your visit with the Teatro Greco, Taormina’s ancient Greek theatre, which remains one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Italy. From its stone terraces, you’ll see a jaw-dropping panorama of the sparkling blue sea, the rugged coastline, and the smoking silhouette of Mount Etna in the distance. The theatre often hosts concerts and performances in summer, continuing its 2,000-year legacy as a cultural hub.

Afterward, wander along Corso Umberto, Taormina’s lively main street. It’s lined with boutiques, cafés, and gelaterias, perfect for strolling and people-watching. Don’t miss Piazza IX Aprile, with its checkerboard pavement and panoramic terrace overlooking the coast. If you’re in the mood for a slower pace, descend to Isola Bella, a pebble beach connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. It’s a beautiful spot to swim or simply relax with your feet in the water. Read more: Best Things to Do in Taormina, Sicily.

If time and energy allow, consider an afternoon or half-day tour of Mount Etna. Whether you hike its lunar-like trails or ride the cable car and jeeps to higher altitudes, Etna is an unforgettable experience. Standing on Europe’s highest and most active volcano is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Evening in Taormina is magical. As the sun sets, the town glows with warm lights, and the atmosphere becomes romantic and vibrant. Dine on a terrace overlooking the sea, savoring dishes like pasta with pistachio or freshly caught swordfish. Taormina captures the essence of Sicilian beauty — dramatic landscapes, history, and dolce vita elegance all in one.

Day 14: Taormina → Cefalù → Palermo Airport

The Old Town of Cefalu with La Rocca in the background . Hiking La Rocca is among the best things to do in Cefalu Sicily
The Old Town of Cefalu with La Rocca in the background

On your final day, begin your journey west toward Palermo, with a memorable stop in Cefalù. This seaside town is 232 km (2 h 40 minutes from Taormina. So, hit the read earlier this day. Beautiful Cefalù is the perfect farewell to Sicily, offering a mix of history, beachside charm, and laid-back atmosphere.

Start with a visit to the Cefalù Cathedral, a Norman masterpiece with stunning Byzantine mosaics inside. The cathedral dominates the town’s main square, Piazza Duomo, a lively place to sip an espresso while admiring the architecture. If you’re feeling energetic, hike up La Rocca, the dramatic limestone hill that towers over the town. From the top, the views of Cefalù’s terracotta rooftops, sandy beach, and turquoise waters are worth the climb.

Cefalù’s beach is one of the most inviting in Sicily, so if you have some time, take a final swim or a barefoot walk along the shore. The town’s medieval streets are a joy to explore, with tiny shops selling ceramics, souvenirs, and gelato. There’s a slower, more relaxed rhythm here — a gentle reminder to savor Sicily before you leave.

By afternoon, continue your drive back to Palermo Airport, where your Sicilian loop comes full circle. Palermo Airport is 98 km (1 h 15 minutes) from Cefalu. As you hand back your rental car and prepare for your flight, take a moment to reflect on the journey: from the bustling markets of Palermo to the golden mosaics of Monreale, the ancient ruins of Agrigento, the baroque splendor of Ragusa, the chocolate of Modica, the mythic beauty of Syracuse, the drama of Etna, and the glamour of Taormina.

A two-week Sicily road trip is not just a holiday — it’s a journey through layers of history, culture, landscapes, and flavors. And like so many travelers before, you may find yourself already dreaming of when you’ll return to this magical island.

Summary of the 2-week Sicily Road Trip

DayPlace(s) to Visit Place to Stay
Day 1PalermoPalermo
(Grand Hotel Villa Igiea)
Day 2 Palermo, MonrealePalermo
(Grand Hotel Villa Igiea)
Day 3Segesta, Scopello, TrapaniTrapani
(Hotel San Michele)
Day 4 Erice, Trapani Sea Salt FieldsTrapani
(Hotel San Michele)
Day 5Selinunte, Scala dei Turchi, AgrigentoAgrigento
(Villa Athena Hotel,)
Day 6Valley of the Temples AgrigentoAgrigento
(Villa Athena Hotel)
Day 7Villa Romana del Casale, RagusaRagusa
(Villa Athena Hotel)
Day 8 RagusaRagusa
(Villa Athena Hotel)
Day 9 Modica, ScicliModica
(Modica Itria)
Day 10 Noto, Syracuse(Ortigia)Ortigia
(Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel)
Day 11Syracuse, OrtigiaOrtigia
(Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel)
Day 12CataniaOrtigia
(Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel )
Day 13 Taormina (Mount Etna)Taormina
(Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo)
Day 14Cefalu, Palermo Airport

Map of the Ultimate 2-week Sicily Road Trip

Milijana Gabrić
Follow me

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *