Weekend in Sicily: what to see and where to go
From golden beaches to Greek temples, from Baroque villages to the volcanic peaks of Mount Etna, Sicily is a land of contrasts and wonders, where wild nature coexists with millennia-old historical landmarks, and every corner tells a different story. If you're looking for the perfect destination for a road trip, this is the ideal place to explore by car. Let yourself be inspired by our suggested driving itineraries in Sicily!
Sicily on the road: what to see and do
A road trip through Sicily means traveling across centuries of history and a mosaic of unique natural landscapes. Start in the north with Palermo, the lively and contradictory capital where the chaos of the streets lives alongside the splendor of Norman churches and Arab-style markets like Ballarò and Il Capo. From here, it's just a short drive to Monreale, home to the famous cathedral decorated with some of the most stunning golden mosaics in Europe.
Following the Tyrrhenian coast, a must-see stop is Cefalù, with its beach nestled beside the old town and the Cathedral overlooking the sea. Heading further east, you’ll reach Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, which can be experienced through hiking or off-road excursions with breathtaking views over the craters and the Ionian Sea.
The southeastern part of the island is the heart of Sicilian Baroque: Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Noto are treasures of architecture and beauty, with churches and palaces carved from pale stone that glow golden at sunset. This part of the island also boasts some of the best traditional cuisine: Modica chocolate, scaccia ragusana, and Pachino tomatoes are just a few of the local specialties.
For archaeology lovers, Sicily is a true paradise: the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Selinunte, and Segesta offer a deep dive into Magna Graecia, among imposing colonnades and Mediterranean landscapes.
What to see in Sicily: sample one-week itinerary
A complete road trip through Sicily could begin in Catania, easily reachable by plane and a perfect base for exploring Mount Etna and the Cyclops Riviera, with the charming fishing villages of Aci Castello and Aci Trezza. From there, Syracuse is one of the closest and most fascinating cultural destinations: the island of Ortigia, the Greek Theatre, and the Cathedral built over an ancient temple make this city truly unique.
Heading southwest, you’ll reach Ragusa, and from there you can continue along the coast to the Scala dei Turchi, a stunning white limestone cliff plunging into the sea. Don’t miss Marsala either, famous for its namesake wine and its salt pans that turn shades of pink and orange at sunset.
Continuing west, Trapani and Erice offer completely different atmospheres: Trapani is a port city with views of the Egadi Islands, while Erice is a medieval village perched on a mountain, with cobblestone streets and spectacular views.
Finally, on your way back toward Palermo, you can visit the Madonie Park or relax on unspoiled beaches like those of San Vito Lo Capo or the Zingaro Nature Reserve, one of the most beautiful protected areas in the Mediterranean. Palermo also has a convenient airport with frequent connections to the main cities in Italy.
Sicily on the road: best time to visit
The best time for a road trip in Sicily depends a lot on what you’re looking to do. Spring is perhaps the ideal season: nature bursts into color, the climate is mild, and archaeological sites and art cities can be explored in greater peace.
Summer draws visitors for its beaches and outdoor life, but it’s also the hottest and busiest time of year. On the other hand, festivals, fairs, and religious celebrations offer a unique opportunity to experience the heart of local culture. Among the most famous are the Festino of Santa Rosalia in Palermo and the Bluefish Festival in Marzamemi.
Autumn is perfect for those who enjoy unhurried travel, perhaps through the vineyards of Mount Etna or the countryside of the Val di Noto, where grape and olive harvests bring the landscape to life. Even during the rainy season, the weather is often mild, with warm days lasting into November and it’s still possible to swim even in late autumn!
Winter, finally, is surprisingly appealing for an alternative trip: Christmas markets, the Acireale Carnival, and less crowded cities allow you to enjoy the cultural heritage at a more relaxed pace. And for adventure lovers, Mount Etna also offers snow-covered landscapes to explore with guided excursions.
Se stai organizzando un tour-on-the-road in Sicilia ma non disponi di un mezzo adatto, puoi rivolgerti a uno degli uffici Locauto presenti sull’isola:
