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7 Days in Sicily: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
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The Best Things to Do with 7 Days in Sicily
Itinerary in Sicily: day 1
Palermo Cathedral
We suggest beginning your journey with an exploration of the iconic Palermo Cathedral. It was founded in 1185 on a site that has served a variety of purposes throughout its history. The church's location has previously housed religious temples of the Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs. During your visit, take note of the marble statues that are aligned along the walls. The cathedral is the final resting place of notable historic figures such as Roger II, Frederick II of Swabia and Constance of Altavilla.
The Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas
Near the Teatro Massimo, you will find the Regional Archeological Museum Antonio Salinas. It houses an impressive collection of ancient Greek, Phoenician and Roman artefacts that have been uncovered across Sicily. It is the island's oldest museum and is considered to be among the most important. During your visit, you will learn about the history of the region from prehistoric times to the medieval era.
Itinerary in Sicily: day 2
The Rocca di Cefalù
Begin the 2nd leg of your Sicily itinerary of 7 days by taking a walk along the Rocca di Cefalù. This spectacular cliff stands at a height of 268 metres and offers fabulous views of the surrounding city and landscape. The crenellated fortifications that crown this location date to the medieval period though there is evidence of human habitation in the area that goes much further back in time. Make sure you bring your camera with you during this excursion, as you will have the opportunity to take some amazing photos.
Cefalù Beach
After your hike above the city, we recommend spending some quality time simply relaxing on the beach. Cefalù is home to one of the most beloved stretches of sand found in Sicily. It sits in a curve right below the Old Town district and offers umbrellas and sunbeds to rent. Enjoy some time sunbathing or taking a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean before heading into town to grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants or cafés. You will find a range of eateries along the Lungomare Giuseppe Giardina and some local shops.
Itinerary in Sicily: day 3
The Piazza Del Duomo
Day 3 of your itinerary in Sicily takes you to the city of Catania, which is located along the island's eastern coast. We suggest starting with an exploration of the Piazza Del Duomo. This is the main square in Catania. It is the perfect place to head to get a feel for the area. Notable points of interest include the Palazzo degli Elefanti, the Fontana Dell'Elefante, Catania Cathedral and the Fontana dell'Amenano. The square is also lined with a series of restaurants and cafés that features outdoor seating.
The Teatro Romano
The Teatro Romano is one of Sicily's best-preserved theatres from the ancient Roman era. Though the structure that you see today was built by the Romans, archaeologists have found traces of a Greek building that dates from the 5th and 4th centuries BCE.
Itinerary in Sicily: day 4
Ortigia Market
Your Sicily itinerary of 7 days now takes you to the historic city of Syracuse. Start your day with an exploration of the iconic Ortigia Market. It is located in the old part of the city and features vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to fish, cured meats, pasta and artisan cheeses. Since the market overlooks the Mediterranean, it also offers some amazing views that you should check out during your visit.
The Greek Theatre
More amazing ancient sites await you during your exploration of Syracuse. The city is home to a well-preserved Greek theatre that is carved into a hillside. Initially built in the 5th century BCE, the theatre was rebuilt again in the 3rd century and later renovated during the Roman era. It makes up part of the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Itinerary in Sicily: day 5
The Palazzo Nicolaci
The 5th leg of your itinerary takes place in the city of Noto, which is located on the southeastern coast of the island. Start your day with a tour of the Palazzo Nicolaci. Construction on this Baroque-style palace began in 1720. It was designed by Rosario Gagliardi for the Nicolaci family. Notable points of interest within the 90-room structure include the Tea Room, the Salone delle Feste and the Municipal Library. During your visit, take note of the wrought-iron balconies on the outside that are supported by stone angels, mermaids and winged horses.
Tenuta Palmeri
Just a short drive from Noto, you will find the famed Tenuta Palmeri winery and vineyard. It has a history that goes back to the 15th century. These days, the winery's focus is on sustainable, organic methods of producing high-quality wines. You can try them for yourself when you visit the cellars for an amazing tasting experience.
Itinerary in Sicily: day 6
Hiking at Vendicari Nature Reserve
Vendicari Nature Reserve is located along the Sicilian coast just south of Noto. The reserve extends for an area of around 13 kilometres and features 3 hiking paths that will take you past forests of juniper and steep cliffsides while you enjoy spectacular sea views. You can take the Blue Route from Eloro Beach to Calamosche, the Orange Route that takes you to the Sveva Tower or the Green Route that will take you to an archaeological site that includes a Byzantine-era necropolis.
Spiaggia di Eloro
After a rewarding hike, we recommend enjoying some more time on the beach. Eloro Beach is located within the Vendicari Nature Reserve. It is an idyllic spot for any traveller looking for a laid-back, quiet vibe. To get to this location, walk roughly 300 metres from the reserve's northern entrance. On the way there, you will go past the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Eloro.
Itinerary in Sicily: day 7
The Grotta Azzurra
Conclude your Sicily itinerary of 7 days with a trip to the famed Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) of Taormina. This spectacular sea cave is located near Mazzaro Beach on Isola Bella. To see it up close, you must book a local boat tour. The waters of the grotto illuminate the cave in a blue hue that is best experienced from the inside. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also go scuba diving at this spectacular location.
A Taormina food tour
As a final amazing experience for your Sicily itinerary of 7 days, we suggest a Taormina food tour. You have several excellent options to choose from. They include a food and wine walking tour of Taormina itself or a food and wine tour of the wineries found on Mount Etna. Regardless of which option you select, you will have the chance to try the best local Sicilian cuisine. Sample fresh fish, freshly baked sweet cakes and bruschetta. A glass of locally produced wine is perfect for washing these taste delights down.
Where to stay in Sicily
1. 5, 7 or 9-night Road Trip: Through the East Coast of Sicily
Choose the 5, 7 or 9-night Road Trip: Through the East Coast of Sicily for a holiday that includes a rental car for an added level of freedom. During your journey, you will enjoy stops in locations across the island like Catania, Syracuse, Noto, Vendicari Nature Reserve and Taormina.
Your tour price includes accommodation in classic double rooms with daily breakfast. You can choose between a 5, 7 or 9-night itinerary.
What we like: We love the fact that this deal includes car hire as it allows you to explore Sicily at your own pace. The excellent selection of carefully chosen hotels adds to the appeal of this booking.
2. 5, 7 or 9-Night Road Trip across Sicily
Discover historic treasures, world-class dining opportunities and spectacular landscapes when you book the 5, 7 or 9-Night Road Trip across Sicily on Voyage Privé. Locations on this incredible journey include Catania, Syracuse, Ortigia, Noto, Etna and Taormina.
During your tour, you will be comfortably accommodated in classic double rooms at a series of hand-picked hotels. This deal also includes car hire for an added level of convenience, and breakfast is served daily.
What we like: We love the impressive selection of destinations included on this amazing tour of Sicily.
3. 5, 7 or 9-Night Road Trip of Northwest Sicily
The 5, 7 or 9-Night Road Trip of Northwest Sicily is an amazing getaway that will take you to iconic locations such as Palermo, Cefalù, Castelbuono, Monreale, Segesta and the Egadi Islands.
The price of your booking includes car hire, daily breakfast and accommodation in classic rooms at hand-selected 4-star hotels.
What we like: We love the freedom that this travel deal provides you to visit the top beaches, villages and restaurants across Sicily at a pace that suits your personality.
4. 5, 7 or 9-Night Tour of Sicily
The 5, 7 or 9-Night Tour of Sicily features stops in Catania, Syracuse, Noto, Modica and Cavagrande. Included car hire adds a significant level of convenience as you can take things at a pace that suits you.
This deal includes accommodation in standard rooms and a breakfast package. During your journey, you will visit iconic ancient sites, spectacular landscapes and vibrant cities.
What we like: We love the idyllic blend of Sicilian destinations included in this deal that can be booked for 5, 7 or 9 nights.
5. 5 or 7-night Private Tour: Discovering Sicily and the Aeolian Islands
From the bustling streets of Palermo to the magical landscapes of Vulcano and Lipari, the 5 or 7-night Private Tour: Discovering Sicily and the Aeolian Islands is an amazing travel deal for an idyllic getaway to this beloved corner of the Mediterranean Sea.
Your destinations include Palermo, Monreale, Lipari and Vulcano. The price of your tour includes daily breakfast, accommodation according to the programme and transfers from Palermo Airport to the hotel and back.
What we like: We love the fact that this travel deal combines a stay in Sicily with a getaway to the Aeolian Islands.
Practical tips for visiting Sicily
Our team at Voyage Privé has some tips to help you enjoy a Sicily itinerary of 7 days that lives up to your expectations. The first point we want to make is that the island's temperatures can be intense throughout much of the year, so pack accordingly. Take clothing that is suitable for hot weather and bring along items like sun hats and sunglasses. It is also worth noting that the Sicilian dialect differs from standard Italian. We suggest learning a few key phrases to enhance the interactions you have with locals. As Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and a region of Europe with a history that extends into deep antiquity, there is a nearly endless list of things to see and do. You can fit a lot of attractions in during a 7-day break, but you will not be able to see it all. For this reason, it is a good idea to plan out your itinerary in advance. If you are going to bring along any electronic devices or appliances from the UK, a travel plug adapter will be a necessity.
When to visit Sicily
Late spring and early autumn are the preferred times for many travellers going on holiday in Sicily. If you book your stay during these months, you can avoid the largest tourist crowds, the highest accommodation costs and the most intense temperatures.
How to get to Sicily
Booking your flights from the UK to Sicily is a simple process as there are daily departures out of major cities across the country. The primary airports for international arrivals are Palermo and Catania. The average in-air time is around 3 hours and 25 minutes. There are inexpensive public transportation options available on the island, but we recommend hiring a car for your holiday if possible. This offers a great deal of added convenience and allows you to take things at the pace you want to go.
What to eat in Sicily
You might find yourself overwhelmed with the number of mouth-watering local dishes that await you during your Sicily itinerary of 7 days. To help you out, we have some must-try recommendations. They include the iconic pasta alla Norma. This dish originates from the island's Catania region and is made using tomatoes, basil, ricotta and aubergines. Pasta con le sarde is another renowned Sicilian menu item that you should sample. Its ingredients include fennel, sultanas, pine nuts and sardines. For a sweet treat, try an authentic cannoli. These beloved pastries originate in Palermo and Messina and are filled with sheep's milk ricotta cheese. Another legendary dessert item is called cassata. It is a sponge cake with sweet ricotta, candied fruit and a marzipan topping.