We Love —
- This enchanting journey to Sicily’s east coast, where the stunning landscapes of Mount Etna and the sparkling waters of the Ionian Sea await.
- Exploring the island at our own pace with hire car and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.
- Tasting authentic Sicilian street food, like arancini, panella and a pistachio cannoli to finish.
Customer reviews —
Your itinerary in brief —
- Day 1: Arrival in Catania
- Day 2: Catania
- Day 3: Syracuse and Ortigia
- Day 4: Noto and Marzamemi
- Day 5: Modica and Raguse
- Day 5: Departure from Catania
7 night road trip:
- Days 1 - 3: Similar to the 5 night itinerary
- Day 4: Noto
- Day 5: Marzamemi
- Day 6: Modica and Raguse
- Day 7: Cavagrande
- Day 8: Departure from Catania
9 night road trip:
- Day 1 - 7: Similar to the 7 night itinerary
- Day 8: Caltagirone
- Day 9: Scicli or Donnafugata Castle
- Day 10: Departure from Catania
The freedom to explore:
Discover our expertly curated self-guided tours, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your itinerary in detail —
5 night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CATANIA
Arrive in the lively city of Catania, where your Sicilian road trip begins. Collect your car and get on the road to your hotel, admiring the incredible view of Mount Etna on your way.
- Collect a hire car from Catania airport
- Check in at your hotel
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 2: CATANIA
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 3: SYRACUSE AND ORTIGIA
Head to Syracuse, where ancient ruins blend seamlessly with elegant Baroque facades and sea-swept charm. Explore Ortigia Island’s narrow lanes, bustling markets, and stunning piazzas, then visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park for a peek at Greek and Roman grandeur.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 4: NOTO AND MARZAMEMI
Depart for Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved 18th-century buildings and historical significance. Spend your time exploring its churches and palaces, savouring local Moscato di Noto, and in the afternoon, stroll through the charming village of Marzamemi, a picturesque seaside village with a charming harbour.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 5: MODICA AND RAGUSA
Explore the historic towns of Modica and Ragusa by car, starting with Modica's stunning Baroque architecture and renowned chocolate shops. Continue to Ragusa, where you can admire its beautifully preserved old town, stroll through charming streets, and soak in the panoramic views.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 6: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Catania Airport, where you'll return your car and say arrivederci to Sicily.
- Breakfast included
- Check out of the hotel
- Return the hire car to the airport
7 night tour
Days 1 - 3 are identical to the 5 night itinerary.
DAY 4: NOTO
After breakfast at the hotel, set off to explore Noto, Sicily’s Baroque jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in a picturesque landscape, Noto boasts an impressive collection of palaces, churches, and elegant façades that showcase the grandeur of Sicilian Baroque architecture. As you stroll through its golden-hued streets, you'll learn more about its rich history and artistic heritage.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 5: MARZAMEMI
Head to the charming fishing village of Marzamemi. With its sun-drenched piazzas, narrow streets, and vibrant waterfront, Marzamemi offers a glimpse into authentic coastal life. Soak in the atmosphere as you wander the harbor and admire the traditional architecture that tells the story of centuries past.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 6: MODICA AND RAGUSA
Venture into the heart of the Val di Noto, beginning with Modica, once among Sicily’s most powerful fiefdoms. Discover its architectural treasures - ranging from Norman to Renaissance and Baroque styles - many designed by the famed architect Gagliardi.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 7: CAVAGRANDE
Enjoy a scenic drive to the Cavagrande Nature Reserve, a paradise for nature lovers. This stunning canyon, carved by the Cassibile River, reveals a landscape of limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and crystal-clear natural pools.
- Breakfast included
- Overnight at your hotel
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA
- Breakfast included
- Check out of the hotel
- Return the hire car to the airport
9 night tour
Days 1 - 7 are identical to the 7 night itinerary.
DAY 8: CALTAGIRONE
DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA
- Breakfast included
- Check out of the hotel
- Return the hire car to the airport
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your optional excursions —
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
During your stay, you will be accommodated in one of the following hotels:
In the region of Catania or Syracuse:
- Hotel Nettuno 4*
- Villa Favorita Noto 4*
- Lanterne Magiche Ortigia
- Agriturismo Badiula
In the region of Raguse or Modica:
- Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
- Modica boutique hotel 4*
- Poggio del Sole 4*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Single rooms available at an extra cost.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Optional extras —
Mobile data
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for the modern traveller. Activate your eSIM and enjoy a connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family, with no risk of going over the limit.
Your journey to Sicily —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Car hire:
This package includes car hire, granting you autonomy to explore new horizons at your own pace! Embrace spontaneity as you journey through diverse landscapes, whether it's a scenic coastal drive, an adventure through rugged mountains, or a leisurely tour of charming towns. Renting a car empowers you to tailor your road trip experience to your preferences, turning each twist and turn of the road into a thrilling adventure. Important information if you are planning to book your own flights: In order to organise the pick-up of your vehicle at the airport, please inform us of your flight times within 48 hours of your booking by filling in the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, you will not be able to collect your vehicle.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: - This is available for arrivals at Palermo and Catania airports ONLY. - If the specified car category is not available, another category with the same characteristics will be issued. - In the event of non-use or partial use of the rental vehicle, no refund will be given. - EUROPCAR and HOLIDAY CAR RENTAL only accept the following debit cards: VISA DEBIT, MASTERCARD DEBIT, V-PAY. Prepaid and/or electronic cards and not linked to a customer bank account will not be accepted. - The card must be in the name of the driver. - A deposit on your credit card will be requested upon arrival at the agency. The deposit will be returned to you if the car is returned undamaged and with a full tank of petrol. - Otherwise, in addition to the fuel surcharge, a service charge of approximately 12.50 € will be applied. The above rates are valid for periods of at least 1 day (1 x 24 h). The vehicle must be returned at the same time as it was picked up. - Any delay of more than 30 minutes will incur an additional charge of one day according to the official local rate applied by the rental company, to be paid on the spot. - Minimum age of driver: 25 years old and in possession of a driving licence for more than one year. - Please note that from 21 to 24 years old there is the possibility to take the car with a "Young Driver" supplement of € 21,00 per day to be paid on the spot at the car rental counter. The price includes: - Unlimited mileage rental - VAT 22% - Airport charges and taxes (12% of the rental price). - Insurance: PAI (personal accident insurance) (driver and passengers); CDW: coverage of the risks of damage to the vehicle with a deductible of € 1,210.00; TW: theft or fire of the vehicle with a deductible of € 1.710,00 The price does not include: - Anything not expressly mentioned in the paragraph "the price includes". - Fines - 2nd and/or 3rd driver - Collection of the car outside the opening hours of the rental office. Important information regarding non-flight offers: In order for your rental car to be available upon arrival, please provide us with your flight schedule within 48 hours of your booking by filling out the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, your car may not be available in time.
Your destinations —
Sicily
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a crossroads of civilisations, blending Greek, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman influences into its rich cultural tapestry. From ancient ruins to Baroque towns, and from rugged landscapes to vibrant culinary traditions, this is an island of endless discovery and charm.
Must-sees:
- Palermo Cathedral: A fusion of Arab-Norman architecture with Byzantine mosaics.
- Valley of the Temples: Ancient Greek ruins near Agrigento set amid olive groves.
- Mount Etna: Europe’s most active volcano, offering scenic hiking and wine-tasting opportunities.
Culinary culture:
Sicily’s cuisine reflects its diverse history, combining Mediterranean flavours with bold spices and textures. Indulge in arancini, golden rice balls stuffed with meat or cheese, and pasta alla Norma, a celebration of aubergine, tomato, and ricotta. Don’t miss the cassata or cannoli, two of the island’s most beloved desserts. For a truly local experience, visit Palermo’s bustling markets to sample panelle, fried chickpea fritters served in sandwiches.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the iconic sites, Sicily rewards those who linger with its lesser-known gems. Explore Licata, a peaceful coastal town famed for its fresh seafood and sandy beaches. Wander the medieval streets of Erice, perched atop a hill with breathtaking views. For art lovers, the mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina reveal intricate glimpses of Roman life.
Good to know:
The currency is the Euro, and Sicily’s Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination, with spring and autumn offering the best weather. Public transport connects major cities, but renting a car is ideal for exploring remote areas. Sicilian hospitality is warm and welcoming, making every visitor feel at home.
