Sicily is a land rich in history, culture and breathtaking scenery. From Greek temples to heavenly beaches, active volcanoes to bustling markets, it is an island that offers a unique experience for every traveler.
But with so many things to see, planning an itinerary can become complicated: what to visit in just 5 days without stress?
Here is an optimized itinerary for discovering the wonders of the island without wasting precious time between transfers and unnecessary waiting.
Day 1: Palermo – History, street food and spectacular sunsets
Morning
- Arrival in Palermo and transfer to hotel
- Visit to the Palace of the Normans and the Palatine Chapel
- Walk through the historic center: Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and the Cathedral of Palermo
Lunch
- Street food tour in Ballarò or Vucciria markets with typical specialties such as bread and panelle, arancine and sfincione
Afternoon
- Visit to the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti and its gardens
- Excursion to Monreale to admire the cathedral and the panoramic view of the city
Dinner
- Dinner at a typical restaurant with Sicilian dishes and local wines
Overnight stay
- Palermo center to facilitate the next day’s commute
Day 2: Valley of the Temples and Scala dei Turchi – Between history and the sea
Morning
- Transfer to Agrigento (about 2 hours and 30 minutes travel time)
- Visit to the Valley of the Temples, one of the most important UNESCO sites in the world
Lunch
- Lunch at a restaurant overlooking the sea with Sicilian specialties
Afternoon
- Relax at the Scala dei Turchi, the striking white cliff overlooking the sea
- Return to Palermo in the evening
Dinner
- Dinner at a typical trattoria with fresh fish dishes
Overnight stay
- Palermo or nearby areas to facilitate the next day’s departure
Day 3: Taormina and Mount Etna – Elegance and wilderness
Morning
- Departure for Taormina (about 3 hours travel time)
- Visit to the Greek Theater with views of Mount Etna and the sea
- Stroll down Corso Umberto among boutiques, churches and scenic views
Lunch
- Lunch at a restaurant overlooking the sea with seafood specialties and pasta alla norma
Afternoon
- Etna excursion with jeep tour or trekking in the extinct craters
Dinner
- Dinner at a winery at the foot of Mount Etna with tasting of local wines
Overnight stay
- Taormina or Catania to be close to the next stage
Day 4: The Aeolian Islands – A paradise between sea and volcanoes
Morning
- Hydrofoil transfer from Milazzo to the Aeolian Islands.
- Arrival in Lipari and tour of the historic center
Lunch
- Waterfront lunch with seafood specialties and Malvasia wine
Afternoon
- Volcano boat tour with thermal water bathing and crater trekking
- Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the islands
Dinner
- Typical dinner with local products from the Aeolian Islands
Overnight stay
- Lipari or Milazzo to facilitate the return trip
Day 5: Relaxation and shopping before departure
Morning
- Return to Catania or Palermo depending on the airport of departure
- Walk around and shop for souvenirs such as Caltagirone ceramics, wine and local products
- Stop at a café for a last Sicilian coffee overlooking the sea
Lunch
- Lunch at a restaurant near the airport to end the trip on a high note
Afternoon
- Airport transfer and departure
How to optimize travel without stress
Getting around Sicily can be challenging due to traffic, limited parking and unreliable public transportation in tourist areas.
To avoid stress and enjoy your trip to the fullest, it is advisable to rely on an Private Driver service:
- Direct transfers between cities without waiting
- Custom tours tailored to your chosen itinerary
- Comfort and safety in luxury vehicles
With Chauffeurs in Italy, you can visit Sicily without worrying about car rentals, parking or public transportation, taking advantage of every minute of your vacation.
Contact us for a tailor-made tour and discover Sicily in the most exclusive way.
