Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – What to see and do in 7 days

Welcome to Sicily, the land of active volcanoes, stunning beaches, and impressive archaeological sites! This intoxicating island is the perfect destination for those seeking the best of both worlds on their next vacation. Whether you want to bask in the sun and relax or immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural and historical scene, Sicily has it all. And let’s not forget about the incredible food, which is some of the best in Italy.

As you explore this beautiful island, you’ll discover that it’s the quintessential stereotype of southern Italy – proud, fierce, and never taking itself too seriously. Unlike the snobbishness of northern Italy – very few countries have such contrasting sides – Sicily exudes a sense of calm and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. But don’t let that fool you – this is a place with a rich and intense cultural scene that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

So if you’re planning a trip to this stunning destination, our Sicily 1-week travel guide is here to help. In addition to practical information about hotels, restaurants and transportation, we’ve also put together a comprehensive 7-day itinerary that includes all the places you must see and visit in Sicily in one week.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide

How to get to Sicily – Flights from Ireland

The island of Sicily is currently served by 4 international airports: Palermo, Catania–Fontanarossa, Trapani e Comiso.

If you’re coming from Ireland, you can only fly directly from Dublin into Palermo with Ryanair.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Best time to visit the region

Well, considering this is a “sun, sea and sand” type of destination, it’s only natural it gets swarms of visitors during the height of the Summer… Especially since the tremendous success of the hit TV show “The White Lotus”! Especially between mid-July and mid-September, the island of Sicily can get unbearably hot during those months, making your whole experience a lot less enjoyable.

That being said, we recommend visiting between May-July or right after the seasonal crowds disappear, between mid-September and mid-October. You’ll still get good weather but won’t have to deal with the crazy crowds, the outrageous hotel prices or the scorching heat!

On the other hand, if you have no interest whatsoever in Sicily’s dreamy beaches and solely wish to visit to discover the island’s tremendous cultural legacy, then even the winter can be a pretty solid choice. Temperatures will still be pretty pleasant, prices will be cheaper and there’s a very good chance you’ll have the island’s main sights mostly to yourself.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Documents needed for your trip

Since Italy is part of the EU, Irish citizens only need to show a valid ID Card in order to be granted access to the country.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Withdrawals, banking fees and travel budget

Since Italy is part of the Eurozone, just like Ireland, there is no currency exchange, with both nations using the Euro. As such, travelers are able to use the same credit/debit card that they utilize back at home without incurring in any fees. However, keep in mind some local banks or networks (such as the infamous Euronet ATM’s) may charge you a flat fee per withdrawal upon detecting that you’re using a foreign card.

Nevertheless, and so that you can get a tighter grip on your travel budget and things don’t slide out of control, we always recommend using Revolut. Although in Italy you won’t be able to take advantage of the card’s most redeeming quality – to allow you to withdraw foreign currency without any exchange fees – this is still a pretty useful tool.

By using the bank’s online app, you will have immediate access to your balance, as well as all your expenses, allowing you to check in real time whether you’ve been charged any fees for your withdrawals or not. Besides, you may just load your card with the exact daily amount you want to spend on your trip, helping you to avoid overspending and going over your budget. Plus, if you find yourself in a situation where your card got lost or stolen, the only money you stand to lose is amount you had loaded your card with. Sign up for Revolut for free >> to get 3 months of Premium.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Common scams and frauds

Despite suffering from a fairly poor reputation – mostly due to Sicily’s everlasting association to the Mafia – you can assure you this is still a very safe destination for tourists. Yeah, the “Cosa Nostra” might still be operating and the island has a bit of a corruption issue, but those systemic issues don’t really affect tourists.

Be wary of cabs with no meter, don’t flash your money or belongings in crowded areas and never EVER take help from anyone while you’re using the ATM. Aside from that, just pay special attention to the cafes/restaurant menus. Although these cases may not be as common, there are several online reports of tourists who kindly accepted the waiter’s suggestion without looking it up on the menu and ended up with as unpleasant surprise upon being handed the check.

We also recommend using an anti-theft bag. Unlike regular bags, anti-theft bags are specifically designed to prevent pickpockets and thieves from easily accessing your belongings. PacSafe is one of the leading brands in this category, producing bags that boast lockable zippers, cut-resistant materials and RFID-blocking fabric that helps protect against those trying to steal your credit card information through contactless technology. We currently use the Lunar, Crossbody and Sling models and can personally attest to their high-quality materials – especially the locking zipper technology, which makes it nearly impossible for anyone to open your bag without you noticing.

To sum it all up – just use common sense and don’t do anything you wouldn’t do anywhere else in the world!

Where to sleep in Sicily – Hotels and Accommodation

If you’re looking out for a place to stay on our Sicily 1-week travel guide then we got you covered!

Ao contrário do que acontece em muitas outras localidades italianas altamente dependentes do turismo para sobreviver, continua a ser possível encontrar bons negócios no que toca a hotéis e alojamentos na Sicília. Aliás, arrisco até dizer que, entre os destinos mais populares de Itália, a Sicília estará entre os mais económicos. No entanto, é importante ter em consideração que a maioria do turismo na ilha é extremamente sazonal, pelo que visitar a Sicília no pico do Verão poderá não ser particularmente em conta.

Unlike many other Italian cities/regions highly dependent on tourism money to survive, it’s still perfectly possible to find fairly good deals on accommodation in Sicily. In fact, I dare saying this is probably one of the budget-friendlier popular destinations in Italy. However, it’s important to note tourism here is quite seasonal, so visiting at the height Summer might still not be exactly cheap.

That being said, here are some options based on the cities we recommend you to stay at on your Sicilian itinerary:

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Hotels in Palermo

• € – Calypso Il Binario Elegance
• €€ – GOLD SUITE&SPA
• €€€ – Porta di Castro Boutique Hotel

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Hotels in Catania

• € – La valigia sul letto
• €€ – B&B Palazzo Perrotta
• €€€ – Airone City Hotel 

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Hotels in Trapani

• € – B&B Fontanelle
• €€ – Migair
• €€€ – Palazzo Gatto Art Hotel & SPA

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Transportation between the airports and the city centers

From Falcone Borsellino Airport to the center of Palermo:

The easiest way to get to the center of Palermo is by using the local train, which departs from the station located inside the airport. These vehicles belong to Trinacria Express and run daily from 05h00 to 22h00, departing every 15 to 30 minutes. The trip to the Central Station only takes 50 minutes and tickets cost 6,50€. Those can be purchased from the auto machines or in advance at the Trenitalia website.

On the other hand, you may also take one of the Prestia e Comandè buses, equally departing to the Central Station. These vehicles operate between 04h00 and 00h30, leaving every 30 minutes. This trips also takes 50 minutes and you can buy your ticket upon landing for 6,30€. However, you get a discount if you buy them online for 10€ round-trip.

Alternatively, if you arrive in Cagliari late in the evening and trains are no longer running, you can take the night bus to the center. Look out for line 160 and expect to pay exactly the same as the train. However, please note this bus still only operates until 23h30, so you’ll have to rely on a taxi service (20€-30€) or book a private transfer if you land after that time.

Alternatively, if you want to take a cab, expect to pay 40€-60€ for the same journey.

From Trapani–Birgi Airport to the center of Trapani:

The only way to travel by public transportation between Trapani Airport and the city center is through local bus company AST. The bus stop is located right outside the arrivals’ hall. These vehicles leave every hour between 06h00 and 22h00, with the journey taking about 45 minutes. Tickets cost 4,90€.

For something a bit more comfortable, use a taxi. However, base-fares start at around 25€-30€.

From Catania–Fontanarossa Airport to the center of Catania:

Although there is a train service as well, the most popular way of reaching Catania’s city center requires using the local Alibus service, connecting the airport and the Central Railway Station. These vehicles leave every 20 to 30 minutes, operating between 05h00 and midnight. The bus stop is located right outside the arrivals’ terminal and a single ticket will set you back 4€. The journey takes 25 minutes.

As for the train station, is located 800 meters away from the airport. If you don’t feel like taking the walk, you can take one of the airport’s shuttles. The trains operate between 05h50 and 21h00, leaving every 15-30 minutes, and the journey takes less than 10 minutes. You may buy your tickets directly on the Trenitalia website, starting from 2,10€.

On the other hand, should you land in Catania afterhours, you’ll have to take a cab for about 30€.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Transportation inside the island

Although public transportation in Sicily is surprisingly extensive, the truth is that you’ll still find yourself struggling to reach all the places on our Sicily 1-week travel itinerary if you’re totally reliant on local buses and trains.

For that reason alone, and in order to get as much autonomy and flexibility as possible, renting your own vehicle is the way to go.

Transportation in Sicily – Public Buses

Unfortunately, Sicily’s public bus system is needlessly complicated. Although, in theory, buses can get you everywhere on the island, planning each trip is nothing short of hellish, since you won’t find any central ticketing system or any official reliable source where you can have access to up-to-date information on times and prices.

That being said, trying to travel across Sicily by bus requires daily visits to tickets offices and a pretty frustrating experience trying to figure which of the dozens of local companies run a specific route. Is it possible to do it? Absolutely. But if you don’t have much travel experience and/or don’t deal well with last-minute mishaps, then I cannot recommend it.

Transportation in Sicily – Public trains

An excellent way to travel between the island’s main cities, Italy’s railroad system is affordable, efficient and easy to navigate. Plus, you’ll be traveling a lot more comfortably than you would on a bus. In all fairness, pretty much every single trip on our Sicily 1-week travel guide could be completed by train, but it would require you to spend a long time on the road.

Unfortunately, and although most of the island is covered by the local railroad system, most of the times you’ll still need to change trains at one of the main cities in order to reach your destination. That requires a lot of back-and-forth between train stations, wasting a lot of your precious, hard-earned paid time off.

Be that as it may, and if renting a car is really not an option, combining local trains and buses is a pretty good way to make sure you get to see (almost) everything on our Sicilian itinerary. It just takes time, patience and good planning. As shared above, you can search for times, routes and ticket prices on the Trenitalia website.

Transportation in Sicily – Renting a car or scooter

Finally, we leave you with the most recommendable transportation option on our Sicily 1-week travel guide. You know the drill – when it comes to convenience and spontaneity, there’s nothing like having our own vehicle when traveling!

However, in the specific case of Sicily, renting a car or scooter is something you’ll want to deal with in advance, otherwise, you’ll run the risk of having to pay a small fortune or, even worse, not finding a single car available! As for the driving, the main roads between the biggest cities (Trapani, Palermo, Messina, Catania and Syracuse) are still quite good. On the other hand, traveling along the secondary roads can be quite tiring, though not particularly challenging. In any case, this is not really something you have to worry about in Sicily if you have any driving experience. On another note, be especially mindful of other drivers. We all know Italians have a horrible reputation when it comes to their hot-headedness on the road, but the Sicilians are on a whole different level!

Regarding scooter rentals, we recommend checking any of the following local companies:

• Mondello Rent – Palermo
• Sicily Moto Rent – Palermo
• Noleggio – Catania
• Manganaro Rent – Catania
• Trapani Airport Rent – Trapani
• Kite Station – Trapani

As for cars, you can browse for prices and availability on Rentalcars.com!

What to eat in Sicily – Local staples and culinary delights

Sicily, with its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, Tyrrhenian, and Ionian Seas, is a culinary delight waiting to be explored. Its diverse origins and influences from the various empires that once surrounded the island have led to a pretty interesting fusion of flavors. Unsurprisingly, Sicilian cuisine draws inspiration from Greek, North-African, and Middle Eastern culinary traditions, along with all the staples one might expect from the world-famous Italian cuisine.

When in Sicily, trying the Arancini is a must, as one can never get too many of these small balls of risotto rice, stuffed with meat or mozzarella and then breaded and fried to perfection. For other local delicacies, you’ll have to try Sfincione, a sandwich with a bread that can only be described as a crossover between a focaccia and pizza crust; Caponata, a sweet-and-sour eggplant stew served on crostini bread; or Panelle, small fritters made with parsley, sesame, and chickpea flour, usually served inside a bun and accompanied by potato croquettes called Crocchè.

By now, you might have noticed this peculiar pattern in Sicilian cuisine, as many of its typical delicacies are not served on a plate, but rather eaten by hand. However, we forgive you if after a few days your body starts asking for something a bit more substantial. If that’s the case, we suggest giving it a go at the local fish, with Pasta con le Sarde standing out as a staple dish. This Arab-inspired dish, made with bucatini pasta, sardines, anchovies, pine nuts, and saffron, is a flavorful treat for the palate. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Pasta Coi Ricci, spaghetti with sea urchins, or the Polpo Bollito, boiled octopus.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t leave Sicily without trying their local desserts, such as Cassata, a cake made with marzipan, ricotta cheese, and candied fruit; Granita, a Sicilian-style sorbet; and, of course, the Cannoli, the world-famous Sicilian dessert that even got a special mention in “The Godfather”.

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Hidden Treasures

As usual, we’re excited to share with you some hidden gems of Sicily that are often overlooked by the crowds. After all, exploring off-the-beaten-path is the best way to truly immerse yourself in the local culture and get a taste of the authentic Sicilian lifestyle! Now, we know that a week might not seem like much when exploring an island with so many attractions, but trust us, it’s worth the effort!

Therefore, we have decided to add the following not-so-popular sights to our Sicily 1-week travel guide:

• Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo
• Selinunte Archaeological Park
• Branciforti Palace
• Sperlinga Castle
• Sampieri
• Catacombs of San Giovanni

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – What to see and do in 7 days

Guess we’re finally getting to the juiciest section on our Sicily 1-week travel guide!

Before we dive into our itinerary, we want to set your expectations straight. Even with a full 7 days on the island, you’ll still need to keep up the pace in order to see everything we’ve included in our guide. Sicily is a reasonably large island with plenty to see and do, and we don’t want you to miss out on anything. Of course, we’ll be including the beautiful beaches and stunning coastline in our itinerary, but we won’t stop there. We’ll also be exploring the island’s rich history, archaeology, and culture. After all, we want you to have the complete Sicilian experience!

Stay with us and discover what to do in Sicily in 7 days:

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 1: Palermo

Passed around between the Arabs, French, Spaniards and Italians through the ages, Palermo is a city filled with stories to hear and history to behold. From the crowded port to the hustle and bustle of the historic center, Palermo is simultaneously beautiful, tough, and complex – an eclecticism that is difficult to find in other European cities. To kick-off your adventure in the old city of Palermo, start at the Palazzo Abatellis (€8), a former royal residence owned by a nobleman from Aragon, before heading to the Teatro Massimo (€10 for a guided tour), officially classified as the largest opera house in all of Italy. Nearby, we also suggest taking a stroll in the charming square of Quattro Canti, which, as the name indicates, is located at the confluence of four distinct streets. This is where you will find La Martorana, one of the most well-known churches in Palermo, whose style perfectly reflects the melting pot that has shaped the city over time.

Still in the center, it’s time to visit the gigantic Palermo Cathedral, perhaps the biggest symbol of the city, before continuing on to the Norman Palace, the former Sicilian seat of the Kingdom of Normandy, originally built in the 9th century for the local Emir when the island was under Arab control. Inside the complex, you cannot miss the Palatine Chapel (€15.50 – combined ticket with the palace), one of the churches with the most unbelievable interiors you will ever see. For something completely outside-the-box, be sure to visit the Catacombs of the Capuchins (€3), a set of underground passages directly carved into the rocky soil, where the bodies of over 8,000 people were mummified, dressed, and subsequently exposed. Ah, a proper activity for the whole family!

At the end the day, you will venture a little further away from the historic center and visit the Monreale Cathedral. I know it may seem like a waste of time to visit “yet another church,” especially after visiting so many different religious sites, but I promise it will be worth the hassle. After all, this is considered one of the most spectacular places in all of Sicily, remaining practically untouched over the past 900 years!

First day wrap-up:

• Palazzo Abatellis
• Teatro Massimo
• Quattro Canti
• La Martorana
• Palermo Cathedral
• Norman Palace
• Cappella Palatina
• Capuchin Catacombs
• Monreale Cathedral

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Palermo:

• Biga Genio e Farina (pizza and sfincione)
• CuFu (sandwiches, snacks and arancini)
• Pizzeria Arcobaleno (pizza and cassatelle)
• Al Sorriso (Italian traditional)
• Solo Patate (panelle and crocchè)
• Trattoria Trapani (Italian traditional)
• Arancinando (arancini)

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 2: Cefalù

After a day exploring the history and culture of Palermo, hop in your car and head towards Cefalù. The hour-long drive along the coastline is absolutely breathtaking, with stunning views of the sea and the rugged cliffs. Once you arrive in Cefalù, the first thing you’ll want to do is head up to the Rock of Cefalù. This massive promontory towers over the village and offers unbeatable views of the entire area. As you hike the trails, you’ll come across the ruins of the Castle of Cefalù and the Temple of Diana, a 3000-year-old megalithic monument.

As you make your way back down to the village, take some time to explore the quaint streets and picturesque buildings. Visit the Santo Stefano Church and the incredible Cefalù Cathedral, both of which are medieval masterpieces. If you’re interested in a unique cultural experience, walk through Porta Pescara – an ancient city gate – and check out the Lavatoio quarter. Here, you’ll find the area that came to be known as the “Municipal Laundry,” a set of ancient stone basins, filled with water coming from River Cefalino, that were used for washing clothes since the Middle Ages. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the people who lived here centuries ago. Finally, after a day of sightseeing, head down to Cefalù Beach and have your very first contact with the Sicilian coastline. This sandy beach is the perfect place to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Second day wrap-up:

• Rock of Cefalu
• Cefalù Castle
• Temple of Diana
• Santo Stefano Church
• Cefalù Cathedral
• Porta Pescara
• Lavatoio
• Cefalù Beach

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Cefalù:

• Claddagh Restaurant & Drink (varied)
• Squisito Cefalu (hamburgers and sandwiches)
• Pasta e Pasti (pasta)
• La Gallizza (arancini, panelle, sfincione and pizza)
• Pizzica (pizza)

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 3: Trapani

Trapani is often hailed as the gateway to the stunning Egadi Islands. But, in my opinion, the most gorgeous coastal region in all of Sicily is located a little further up north. So, before you dive into the trademark turquoise waters, let’s take a few hours to explore what Trapani has to offer. As such, we suggest spending your morning in the old city, which is built around the harbor. Unlike bustling Palermo, Trapani is quieter and boasts classic architecture, narrow streets, and defensive fortresses. To get acquainted with the area, check out the Santuario dell’Annunziata, the Church of the Jesuit College or the Trapani Cathedral, before taking in the seaside views from Ligny Tower.

Just a stone’s throw away, you can visit the sprawling Trapani e Paceco Salt Pans, which were once the city’s primary economic activity. Today, they offer the perfect spot for capturing the iconic windmills that dot the landscape throughout the island. Finally, head north to put Sicily’s beaches to the test. To start with a bam, take a dip at San Vito Lo Capo, which is widely regarded as the island’s best beach. Nestled against the lush promontories of the Zingaro Nature Reserve, some of its vistas look like they’ve been taken straight out of a Rio de Janeiro catalog. Get ready for some serious beach envy!

Third day wrap-up:

• Santuario dell’Annunziata
• Church of the Jesuit College
• Trapani Cathedral
• Ligny Tower
• Trapani e Paceco Salt Pans
• San Vito Lo Capo

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Trapani:

• Capricci in távola (Italian tapas)
• Efri Bar (sweets / cannoli)
• Rosticceria Al Pollero da Roberto (arancini and panelle)
• Trattoria La Golosa (Italian traditional)
• Maree (fried fish)
• Pizzeria Calvino (pizza)

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 4: Between the Ruins of Selinunte and Agrigento

On this day, you’ll experience the perfect mix between culture and nature. Start by driving to the Archaeological Park of Selinunte (6€), where you’ll find the remains of an ancient Greek city. While there are many buildings and ruins to explore, the highlight of the park is the Selinunte Acropolis – a grand and well-preserved structure that will leave you in awe. Make sure to take in all the sights, but don’t linger for too long, as the end of the day will have even more impressive archaeological wonders in store for you.

However, the path between those two places is just as impressive as the ruins themselves, taking you through the idyllic beaches of the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve. Take some time to relax, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the water before heading to Agrigento. Once you arrive, make a detour to Scala dei Turchi and witness how the sea erosion carved up a perfect natural staircase along the rock formation. From atop, the bravest visitors can even jump directly into the sea.

Next, head to the archaeological zone, known as the “Valley of the Temples“. This region, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, has plenty to see and do, which is why we recommend focusing on the following monuments:

• Temple of Juno Lacinia
• Temple of Concordia
• Temple of Hercules
• Temple of the Olympian Zeus
• Temple of Castor and Pollux

While in the valley, you can also take a peek at the Regional Archaeological Museum. Before dinner, take a few minutes to stroll through the historic center of Agrigento and visit the Cathedral of San Gerlando, the most iconic building in town.

Fourth day wrap-up:

• Selinunte Archaeological Park
• Torre Salsa Nature Reserve
• Scala dei Turchi
• Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
  • Temple of Juno Lacinia
  • Temple of Concordia
  • Temple of Hercules
  • Temple of the Olympian Zeus
  • Temple of Castor and Pollux
• Regional Archaeological Museum
• Cathedral of San Gerlando

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Agrigento:

• Gusto’si (Sicilian traditional)
• Gustissimo (pizza)
• Trattoria Pizzeria Da Mimmo (Italian traditional)
• Gastronomia Palumbo Antonello (varied)
• Eno gastronomia sammartino (cured meats and snacks)

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 5: Ragusa and Modica

Are you ready to continue your journey along the beautiful Sicilian coast? Today, we’ll take you to two of the most stunning towns on the island, but not before we explore the history behind their unique architecture. In the late 17th century, a massive earthquake struck the Val di Noto region in the southeast of Sicily, destroying much of the area. When it was time to rebuild, the local authorities decided to create the perfect tribute to Baroque art, which you will have the honor of exploring today. Our first stop is in the historic center of Ragusa, a town divided between Ragusa Alta and the older part, known as Ragusa Ibla, located on a lower level.

While exploring the high city, you’ll start off by visiting the Cathedral of San Giovanni, the most important church in the city, before getting your very first glimpse of Ragusa Ibla from the staircase of the Santa Maria delle Scale. This is the most iconic view of the entire city! As you descend to the lower part of Ragusa, you’ll discover why this landscape in a thousand shades of gray and pastel is so renowned, allowing yourself to get lost amidst the labyrinth of winding streets, Baroque facades, and impressive viewpoints. Don’t miss the Duomo di San Giorgio, the Arezzo Di Trifiletti Palace, the Church of San Giuseppe, or the lovely Ibleo Gardens.

After exploring Ragusa, it’s time to hit the road and drive for 15km until you get to Modica, a smaller version of Ragusa. Like its sister city, Modica, which is also split between a high and a lower city, was likewise destroyed in the earthquake and later rebuilt in the Baroque style. Here, we recommend simply wandering the streets and absorbing the atmosphere, visiting the San Giorgio Cathedral, the Duomo di San Pietro, and the Leva Palace. Finally, and so that you don’t spend more than a day without taking a plunge, it’s time to visit Sampieri and enjoy its local beach, bizarrely located near an abandoned factory. Despite its beauty, this relatively isolated beach is often empty, providing a perfect opportunity for a peaceful day by the sea.

Fifth day wrap-up:

• Ragusa Ibla
• Cathedral of San Giovanni
• Santa Maria delle Scale
• Duomo di San Giorgio
• Arezzo Di Trifiletti Palace
• Church of San Giuseppe
• Ibleo Gardens
• Modica
• San Giorgio Cathedral
• Duomo di San Pietro
• Leva Palace
• Sampieri

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Ragusa and Modica:

• Cantunera Ibla (Sicilian traditional)
• Trattoria Al Casareccio (Italian traditional)
• Salumeria Barocco (cured meats and snacks)
• Cantunera Modica (arancini)
• Trattoria Da Fabio (Italian traditional)

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 6: Syracuse

Sampieri is the southernmost place you’ll visit in Sicily, so today you’ll kick things off with a journey up north towards the insanely beautiful town of Syracuse, whose historic core is located on the tiny Island of Ortigia, connected to the rest of the city by two bridges. The entire island is surrounded by ancient walls, making it one of the most stunning and well-preserved locations in Italy. Start out by exploring the Maniace Castle (4€), which has been standing over the entrance to Syracuse’s bay for generations, before heading to Fonte Arethusa, a freshwater fountain located right next to the sea. This spring is famous for the abundance of papyrus plants that grow there, being one of the only two places in Europe where the famous parchment was historically produced. Still in Ortigia, don’t miss out on the stunning Cathedral of Syracuse, the Piazza Duomo or the Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric monument in Sicily.

When you’re ready to venture out of the old city, head to the Archaeological Park of Neapolis (13€). This is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Greece, as it houses some of the best-preserved ruins from that era. Check out the Greek Theater, the Altar of Hieron, and the Latomia del Paradiso, a network of quarries turned into beautiful gardens and trails. While you’re there, make sure to explore the Ear of Dionysius cave! Near the park, in the most modern area of Syracuse, we also recommend paying a visit to the Catacombs of San Giovanni, built inside the crypt of a ruined church. In the afternoon, it’s time to hit the beach. Make your way to the beautiful Calamosche, located inside the Vindicari Nature Reserve, where you can spend a few hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Sixth day wrap-up:

• Island of Ortigia
• Maniace Castle
• Fonte Arethusa
• Cathedral of Syracuse
• Piazza Duomo
• Temple of Apollo
• Archaeological Park of Neapolis
• Catacombs of San Giovanni
• Calamosche Beach

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Syracuse:

• Ammucca (meat)
• Caseificio Borderi (sandwiches, cured meats and snacks)
• La Bracioletteria (Italian traditional)
• Panineria F.lli Milazzo (Panini)
• Trattoria Da Gianni (Italian traditional)

Sicily 1-Week Travel Guide – Day 7: Taormina

Guess we just got to your last day in Sicily! However, before packing and making your way back home, you’ll have the chance to discover the hidden gems of Taormina, a charming town with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and the majestic Mount Etna. As you make your way through the town’s historic center, you’ll start at Porta Catania, the area’s official entry point, and walk along Corso Umberto, the main pedestrian street. Along the way, don’t forget to explore the Duomo di San Nicola, the Piazza IX Aprile and the Church of San Giuseppe.

Afterwards, check out the Villa Comunale, a stunning garden with one of the best views in Taormina, where you can soak up the stunning scenery before heading to the Greek Theatre. This iconic landmark, the main tourist attraction in the city, is a must-see for any traveler, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. If you want to double down on the views, climb up to the Castle of Taormina and take in the panoramic landscape from the top. At almost 400 meters in altitude, the panorama is simply breathtaking. Halfway up, don’t forget to stop by the Madonna della Rocca, an ancient chapel directly carved into the rock. To wrap up your Sicilian adventure, bid the island farewell with a dip at the beach in Isola Bella. This small islet is connected to the coast by a beautiful sandy beach, offering the perfect spot for a final swim.

Seventh day wrap-up:

• Porta Catania
• Corso Umberto
• Duomo di San Nicola
• Piazza IX Aprile
• Church of San Giuseppe
• Villa Comunale
• Greek Theater
• Madonna della Rocca
• Castle of Taormina
• Isola Bella

Cheap restaurant suggestions in Taormina:

• L’Arco – About pizza (pizza by the slice)
• Gallo Cedrone (Italian traditional)
• Da Cristina (Italian traditional)
• Arco Rosso (sandwiches, cured meats and snacks)
• La Pignolata Guinness Cannoli (sweets / cannoli)

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