Sicily is a land of ancient cultural wonders, incredibly stunning coastlines, and, of course, one of the best cuisines in Italy. With its puzzle of history and exceptional scenery with surrounding shining seas, the island definitely has a rich holiday experience to share. In seven days, you will be able to take part in a lot of what Sicily has to offer, so let’s explore how to have an exceptional stay in its most Italian way.
Day 1: Catania to Taormina
Arrive in Catania, a thriving city at the foot of Mount Etna. Take a memorable stroll around Piazza del Duomo, location of the world-renowned Elephant Fountain.
From Catania, drive to Taormina, a town perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea. Taormina boasts its Greek Theatre and amazing beaches. Consider booking your stay at Atlantis Bay Hotel Sicily, which is perfectly situated for discovery of the east coast.
Day 2: Taormina and Isola Bella
Spend the morning at Teatro Greco, Taormina’s historic amphitheater with views of Mount Etna and the ocean. Then stroll down Corso Umberto, Taormina’s scenic pedestrian main street, and enjoy the local vibe and melodic language.
In the late afternoon, walk down to Isola Bella, a nature reserve and small island just beneath Taormina. Connected to the mainland by a narrow beach, it’s one of Sicily’s most beautiful spots to swim and snorkel.
Day 3: Mount Etna
Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe. Trek over the black lava flows with a guided tour or take a cable car ride up to the upper craters for spectacular views. Then, head to one of the Etna wineries for a more relaxing experience, where you can taste wine made from grapes grown in volcanic soils.
Day 4: Syracuse and Ortigia
Make your way south to Syracuse, which is one of the most historically significant cities in Sicily. Start at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which houses Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheater, and the intriguing Ear of Dionysius, a cave that has great acoustics.
Then go to Ortigia, the historic old town of Syracuse, whose Baroque churches and sea views are as beautiful as it gets. Do not miss the beautiful Fountain of Arethusa, a freshwater fountain lined with papyrus plants.
Day 5: Agrigento and The Valley of the Temples
Visit Agrigento, on Sicily’s southern coast, to view the Valley of the Temples, one of the world’s most intact ancient Greek monuments. Walk among gigantic ruins, including the phenomenal Temple of Concordia and Temple of Juno, built in the 5th century BC.
After visiting the archaeological park, see Scala dei Turchi, a spectacular white limestone cliff overlooking the sea.
Day 6: The Aeolian Islands
Go on a boat trip to the Aeolian Islands, an island chain of volcanic origin with crystalline waters. Visit Lipari, the biggest island, or, alternatively, visit Vulcano, where you can climb to the crater or relax in natural mud baths.
Day 7: Departure and Last Views of Taormina
Before your departure and if time allows, stop by Castelmola, a hilltop village above Taormina with breathtaking panoramas and a chance to try almond wine, a local specialty.
This active week-long trip covers the highlight of Sicily, but the time spent in Sicily with its incredible energy will never be enough. Discover it for yourself and welcome to one of the most beautiful islands on the planet!
