day tours sicily

Discover the flavors of San Francisco

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Discover the flavors of Taormina

As the world reopens

We’re committed to helping you feel confident as you get back out there. Learn what we’re doing to help keep you safe and your plans flexible as you discover amazing things to do.

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Years Experience

TAORMINA SHARED DAY TOURS

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Etna Nature and Flavours Daily from Taormina

Daily small size tour to Etna Volcano , Enjoy an amazing UNESCO world heritage site and visit the Silvestri Craters. Optional : ascent to the summit by cable car and jeep.

From   eur 77

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Agrigento & Piazza Armerina

Friday from taormina.

An amazing multilingual experience to visit Piazza Armerina --the Roman Villa -- and the amazing Agrigento --the Valley of the Temples --. UNESCO world heritage sites.

From   eur 65

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Syracusa & Ortigia Thursday from Taormina

Enjoy visiting Syracusa and Ortigia island, a mix of Archaeological site and amazing fashinating city centre. UNESCO world heritage site.

From   eur 55

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Lipari & Vulcano islands Wednesday from Taormina

Visit two lovely islands in the Aeolian archipelago: Lipari and Vulcano . UNESCO world heritage sites.

From   eur 95

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Panarea & Stromboli islands Sunday from Taormina

Suggestive mini cruise to explore two of the most famous Aeolian archipelago: Panarea and Stromboli islands, located to the north of Sicily, UNESCO world heritage sites

From   eur 110

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Taormina Boat Tour Daily from Taormina

A relaxing Small Size Group Tour to visit the Taormina bay and the coast of the pearl of the Ionian from the most privileged point of view: the sea! 

From   eur 36

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Palermo & Cefalù Monday from Taormina

Today we are visiting two UNESCO sites for their Arab-Norman routes. Palermo  and  Cefalù.  

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Taormina Cooking Class Monday to Saturday

Looking for a cooking course with local recipes? Join the chef to the open market to purchase the fresh ingredients for the class ....

From   eur 93

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Etna Volcano

Saturday from taormina.

Multilingual day tour to Etna Volcano , Enjoy an amazing experience hiking the bigger active European Volcano. UNESCO world heritage site.

From   eur 40

GO PRIVATE 

Special Offer!

There are so many reasons to take a Private Trip with Tour of Sicily-Taormina Excursions :

it’s easy, it’s a great value and, most importantly, it’s a lot of fun! 

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Interested to travel in your small group

Within a group.

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YOUR SMALL GROUP WITHIN A GROUP

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Travel with your own small group on an Insieme, weaving in and out of a scheduled trip with other guests. With an extra van, your small group has even more flexibility to tailor your experience.

All Tours of Sicily-Taormina Excursions trips are about choice: each day you decide which of the various options best fit your pace and style. But we know sometimes you want even more flexibility—to sleep in a little later, or explore a bit further, or check out a sight you’ve always wanted to see. So we’ve created a way for you and a few companions to have an incredible vacation while doing just what you'd like to do and still enjoying the guest camaraderie of the core trip. 

It's Easy: just rally a group of friends or family (from 5 people up to seven) and tell us where and when you’d like to INSIEME, choosing from thousands of travel dates. We’ll set you up with a dedicated Trip Leader, your own support van and an even more flexible itinerary so you and your companions can do your own thing—while benefiting from all the fun, planning, logistics and legendary service of a core Tour of Sicily trip.

The Additional Cost can be divided

among your entire group.

THINGS TO CONSIDER • INSIEME is not a private or custom trip.

• For small groups of family or friends traveling together–but not on a Private Trip–Insieme helps to lessen any awkward dynamics of a group within a group.

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Every Tour of Sicily-Taormina Excursions Trip invites you to explore a region your way.

Insieme-you-can makes it even more flexible -and extra personal- for you and your special group.

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    Interested in

          going private, taormina private day tours.

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ETNA AND ALCANTARA JEEP RIDE | Full Day

Etna, Alcantara Gorges, Snack  and Wine

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GODFATHER VILLAGES | Half Day

Indulge your senses in the Godfather movie

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ETNA VOLCANO, ASCENT TO THE TOP | Full Day

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AGRIGENTO AND PIAZZA ARMERINA | Full Day

UNESCO sites, the best Sicilian Highlights

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History and Romantic location

SYRACUSA AND ORTIGIA ISLAND | Full Day

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Great sea experience from Taormina

TAORMINA BOAT TOUR | Half  Day

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              Wish to move 

To the west or south east, private transfer-tours.

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to Syracusa

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One way transfer&tour from Taormina to join Syracusa: visit Modica , famous for the chocolat , the uptown village of Ragusa Ibla  and the lovely baroque of Noto

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One way transfer&tour from Taormina to join Palermo: visit Piazza Armerina and its Roman Villa  and the amazing Agrigento to enjoy the Valley of the Temples

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to Agrigento

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One way transfer&tour from Taormina to join Agrigento: we visit the Baroque town of  Caltagirone famous for the Ceramics  and Piazza Armerina to see the Roman Villa

Sicily Journey - Transfers and Exclusive Tours of Sicily

Day Tours in Sicily

100% sicilian experience..

At Sicily Journey , we thrive in giving our travelling customers the very best of us whilst offering unique day excursions from any starting point in Sicily .

With us at Sicily Journey , you will find competence, courtesy and flexibility . We are experts in giving cultural and gastronomic experiences and we will show you how small mediaeval villages or large historic cities are closely connected with good food and wine . In many of our private day excursions thanks to the food, olive oil and wine tastings that we will have organised, all travellers from around the world will be left with an unforgettable memory .

Listed below are some of our proposals for private day tours in Sicily , departing within a radius of 15 kilometres from our head office. These can be completely flexible in order to give you a unique and personalised experience .

A Mercedes with a local experienced driver / guide will pick you up at your accommodation at a pre-arranged time, a welcome pack consisting of water and snacks will be provided for each passenger on board the vehicle.

If you do not find what you are looking for in our day excursions proposals , it will be our pleasure to organise a tailor-made day tour in Sicily according to your personal requirements.

The Godfather Tour

Volcanologist excursion of etna north, etna north summit crater tour – 3300mt, the white lotus 2 in sicily - south east – coast, the white lotus 2 in sicily - north coast, the baroque tour of inspector montalbano, etna - the wine tour, enna and caltagirone, the city of ceramics, catania and the cyclops riviera, agrigento and piazza armerina, mount etna and alcantara river, etna food & wine tasting, taormina - castelmola - giardini naxos tour, siracusa & noto tour, book your experience.

Free and without obligation

Scegli la tua esperienza

Dicci di più.

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Sicily Tours & Trips

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208 Sicily tour packages with 1,403 reviews

Discovering the Best of Sicily Tour

In-depth Cultural Family

Discovering the Best of Sicily

  • €50 deposit on some dates

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 8 days Tour

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 8 days

"The bus tour was a fantastic experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone." Luciana, traveled in July 2023

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo Tour

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo

"Content, variety and balance of the tour sites was excellent." Val, traveled in October 2019

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests) Tour

Food & Culinary Explorer

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

"The food and guides were great! Hotels were very comfortable. Drivers were excellent!" Susan, traveled in April 2024
  • 10% deposit on some dates

Private Tour of Sicily: Highlights Tour

Private Tour of Sicily: Highlights

"The actual tours were informational and engaging! We couldn't have asked for a better trip!" Shanon, traveled in August 2022

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days

"We loved all the history and places where we had an experience with things Sicilian!" Mary, traveled in February 2020

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania Tour

In-depth Cultural Coach / Bus

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania

"The team was so kind and patient with everyone and handled all the logistics seamlessly." Susan, traveled in September 2023

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights) Tour

In-depth Cultural Family Coach / Bus +1

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights)

"My experience as well as that of my wife was excellent and exceeded our expectations!" KONSTANTINOS, traveled in May 2022

Absolute Sicily: Palermo - Palermo (10 days/9 nights) Tour

Absolute Sicily: Palermo - Palermo (10 days/9 nights)

"Overall good. Multiple languages at times does not work." Ricardo, traveled in July 2023

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour) Tour

Explorer Family Historical

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour)

"We had a small group of 5. It was fantastic. They were all very knowledgeable, well educated in their fields of study, and answered all our questions and more!" Anita, traveled in June 2023

What people love about Sicily Tours

We enjoyed ourselves and that is the principal objective in any holiday. Travelling in April meant that the weather was perfect for us - not too hot. The hotels were good - the Mercure in Palermo and the one in Agrigento excellent. Either lunch or dinner was laid on and we're of a high standard. The sites we visited were truly impressive although sometimes a little fleeting. Sicily is a big island so we did spend a lot of time on the coach. Thankfully we had a smart vehicle, Dino the driver was brilliant but the most plaudits have to go to Angelo the tour guide. Angelo was in turns helpful, informative, knowledgeable and great company. He went out of his way on a number of occasions to assist members of our party be it with lost property, illness or other mishaps. The tour was great value and I would strongly recommend.
Good guides and good hotel and meals. Didn't expect my initial group of 30 to swell to 45 a few days later. Such a large number made visiting sites difficult. Didn't have listening devices for the first 3 days. Couldn't hear guides very well. Didn't expect to have to pay entrance fees. Web site should make that clear. Loved the selection of sited we visited.
The food and guides were great! Hotels were very comfortable. Drivers were excellent!

Top operators

Europamundo

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Dimensione Sicilia - Dimsi Incoming Operator Srl

"Our guide was well organised and very knowledgable. Managed to fit in a lot over the 6 days

Dimensione Sicilia - Dimsi Incoming Operator Srl is an expert in:

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Best Sicily day tours

Cruise port pick-up/drop-off.

Timelines of all our Sicily day tours are customized for cruise ship passengers docking at the cruise ports of Messina, Taormina-Giardini Naxos and Catania, according to the timetable of arrival and departure of ships.

Small groups

Our Sicily day tours are meant to be for you a real experience of Sicily and its authenticity. For this reason, we believe the best experience is the one that allows a strong interaction between the tour leader and the guests.

Local professional tour guides

Anything better than exploring a destination having a friendly local insider by your side? Our team of expert guides will be able to engage and show to you the most hidden spots and fun facts about the area you choose!

 All our Sicily day tours can be arranged also as private experiences and customized according to your preferences and needs, just for you, your family or group of friends.

We have also available private Sicily experiences with special activities and destinations off-the-beaten-paths

Best destinations

Choose your favorite Sicily day tours and explore the best highlights of Eastern Sicily with us. Visit Taormina, Mt. Etna, or the Godfather locations in Savoca!

Our Sicily day tours

Discover Messina Sicily offers  Sicily day tours with departures from Messina, Taormina-Giardini Naxos & Catania ports.

Are you coming to Eastern Sicily by cruise ship and are you are looking for the best experiences to explore the island? Take a look at our  Sicily day tours : they are made to explore the most attractive destinations departing from the ports of Messina, Catania and Taormina/Giardini Naxos.

Day trips from Messina

Messina walking tour: the Cathedral Square

Messina walking tour of the historical center

taormina cathedral square

Day tour: Taormina tour & Castelmola Sicily from Messina

day tours sicily

Day tour: Taormina & Etna tour “Gold of Gods”

Taormina boat tour

Day tour: Taormina boat tour to Isola Bella Sicily

Panorama Messina from Christ the King Temple

Messina tour: city and coast from port

day tours sicily

Day tour: Taormina walking tour with Greek Theatre and Castelmola from Messina

sicily boat trips

Taormina Blue Grotto & Lovers’ Cave boat tour

Savoca Sicily

Taormina and Savoca tour from Messina

Sicilian town of Savoca

Godfather tour Sicily: Savoca-Forza d’Agrò

Etna wine tour

Day tour: Taormina and Etna wine tour from Messina

Places to visit near Taormina

Day tour: Taormina excursion with lunch and Castelmola from Messina

cooking class sicily

Day tour: Cooking class Sicily in Taormina from Messina port

Messina photo tour: the Virgin Mary of the Letter

Messina photo tour: the most scenic spots in town

taormina white lotus tour

Messina Taormina tour: cultural heritage experience

Etna off road experience

Etna off road tour: 2850 mt semi-private experience

Strait of Messina fishing tour: Swordfish Sicily private experience

Strait of Messina fishing tour: swordfish private experience

Messina city tour 360° best things to do in messina sicily

Messina city tour 360°: the city, the coast and the mountain view

day tours sicily

Private Taormina White Lotus luxury experience

Montalbano elicona sicily view

Montalbano Elicona Sicily experience

Etna Alcantara tour northern slope of the volcano

Etna Alcantara tour: the majestic lava landscape

messina wine tasting

Messina wine tasting experience

sicilian cannolo Sicilian street food tour

Sicilian street food tour: eat local in Messina

Regional Museum of Messina

Messina Regional Museum and historical city center tour

Tindari Sicily tour archaological area

Milazzo & Tindari Sicily: the heritage experience

Day trips from giardini naxos/taormina.

Savoca godfather tour Sicily sicilian town

Day tour: Savoca Godfather tour Taormina from Naxos

Day tour: sicily boat trips taormina & isola bella from giardini-naxos.

Ancient theatre of Taormina

Castelmola & Taormina shore excursion with Greek Theatre from Giardini Naxos

day tours sicily

Day tour: Castelmola & Taormina trip from Taormina- Giardini Naxos

Mt Etna tours

Day tour: Taormina and Etna trip from Taormina- Giardini Naxos

Mount etna wine tasting tour

Day tour: Wine tour Etna & Taormina from Giardini Naxos

day tours sicily

Day tour: Castelmola & Taormina day trip with lunch from Giardini Naxos

Day trips from catania.

Boat trips from catania

Boat trips from Catania to Taormina Isola Bella and Blue Grotto

Taormina tour from Catania

Castelmola Taormina tour from Catania with Greek Theatre

Day trip from Catania to Taormina

Day trip from Catania to Taormina & Castelmola

Etna wine tour from Catania

Taormina & Etna wine tour from Catania

etna tour from catania

Taormina and Etna tour from Catania

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Ragusa Ilba as seen from above in the Val di Noto, a must-see place during a Sicily road trip itinerary

The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Beautiful, mysterious Sicily, with its looming volcano, sparkling azure waters, and hilltop villages, is one of those travel destinations that I have spent most of my life dreaming about. After finally taking a Sicily road trip, I can say confidently that the island was worth the wait… and that we’ll be working our way through another Sicily itinerary before too long.

The largest island in the Mediterranean truly does have it all: whether you’re looking to lounge on a beach, dive headfirst into the cuisine, explore the Roman (or Greek, or Norman, or Arab, or Byzantine) history, or visit famous Mount Etna, a Sicily road trip has something to offer.

Planning your own trip to Sicily and not sure exactly where to go?

We’ve put together this 10 days in Sicily itinerary for first-timers to the island–this is how to make the most of your first Sicily road trip!

Table of Contents

Why to Take a Sicily Road Trip

How we structured this 10 day sicily itinerary, a note on the language of the island, the ultimate 10 day sicily road trip itinerary, other places to visit on your sicily road trip, sicily road trip itinerary map, what to know about driving in sicily, the best time to visit sicily, what to pack for sicily.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm in the Greek Theatre of Taormina Sicily

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Sicily was made for road tripping: with plenty of wide-open spaces, beautiful natural spots, and tiny towns worth visiting, there are few places in Italy more worthy of hitting the open road than Sicily.

Add in a less-than-ideal public transportation system, and a Sicily road trip quickly emerges as the clear best way to explore the island–but you need to be prepared in order to make the most of it.

Mosaics on the ceiling of the Church of Martorana, Things to See in Palermo Sicily

You could easily create a month-long Sicily itinerary and still leave the island with stones unturned–but let’s face it, most people won’t have that long to spend on the island.

Our Sicily road trip itinerary is designed to hit all the best spots on the island for first-timers to visit, allowing you to get a taste of many different parts of Sicily: complicated yet lovely Palermo, beautiful beaches, and hilltop villages are all covered, as well as some of the most popular cities in Sicily.

Next to each location, we’ve noted the minimum number of full days (so, not counting a day you arrive at 4pm, for example) we’d recommend spending in each location. 

This works out to be quick-paced but reasonable 10 day Sicily itinerary–but if you’re lucky enough to have more time to spend in Sicily, you can extend it far longer, both by increasing the number of days spent in each location and adding new destinations (we’ll provide some suggestions for those below as well).

empty beach as seen on a sunny day in avola sicily with sea on the right side of the photo, as seen as part of a sicily road trip

Though Italian is the official language in Sicily, Sicilian dialect–which is related and yet distinctly different, to the point where Italian speakers will have a hard time understanding it–is widely spoken in Sicily.

In the destinations covered on this Sicily road trip itinerary, you won’t run into many people (especially those who work with or near tourists) who don’t comfortably speak Italian–but if you stop off in smaller towns along the way, you’ll start to hear (and even see, on menus and such) more and more dialect.

As for English, well–like most places in the world, you can get by among those working in the tourism industry by using it, but it’ll be a bit harder here than in most of Italy.

We strongly recommend learning at least some basic Italian phrases before taking your Sicily road trip–the more Italian you speak, the easier your Sicily travels will be.

I don’t speak much Italian, but knowing enough to ask for (and receive) directions, order food in out-of-the-way places, read basic signs, speak with taxi drivers, etc, made our trip a bit simpler.

Kate Storm sitting a table at BamBar in Taormina. There's an orange granita in front of her and yellow tile work behind her. Visiting BamBar is absolutely one of the best things to do in Taormina Sicily!

Palermo: 2 Days

The capital of Sicily is known for being a bit of a rundown place–and though in some ways it is, it’s also a beautiful, laid-back, and endlessly engrossing city. 

We spent an entire week in Palermo and still weren’t ready to leave when it was over, but 2 days in Palermo will be enough to give you a taste of the major sights and start your 10 days in Sicily itinerary off on a great foot.

What to Do in Palermo

Step inside the magnificent palermo cathedral..

Dating back to the 12th century and built in a variety of architectural styles, the beautiful and distinctive Palermo Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the city.

It’s also home to some very unique touches, like a sundial on the floor marked with zodiac signs and an inscription from the Quran on one of the columns near the entrance–both highly unusual for a Catholic church!

Palermo Cathedral as seen from across the street, a wonderful place to start your 10 days in Sicily itinerary

Take a walking + food tour in order to see some of Palermo’s best highlights, fast.

Taking a Palermo food and walking tour on one of the first days of your Sicily travels is an excellent way to orient yourself both to the city and to the island as a whole.

Explore historical landmarks, markets, and cuisine while also getting a taste of what Palermo is all about with a fabulous food and walking tour.

We took this fun tour during our trip to Palermo and absolutely loved it!

Book your Palermo food + walking tour today!

Outdoor Capo Market food stalls, Best Things to Do in Palermo

Visit the mummies at the Capuchin Crypt of Palermo.

From the 17th to the 19th century in Palermo, increasing numbers of people were mummified in these catacombs–first naturally, and later intentionally, preserving them for all eternity.

The walls of the catacombs are lined with clothed bodies that have their full skeletons intact, staring down at visitors with sometimes disturbingly aware facial features.

No photos are allowed inside, but I can’t impress enough the creepiness of this place–I think it has something to do with the fact that these people are preserved as themselves that adds an extra layer of disturbing to it all, as opposed to places like the catacombs of Paris where the bones are more or less repurposed into artwork using human remains.

If you find catacombs interesting, we highly recommend visiting these during your trip to Sicily–they are, hands down, the most bizarre and fascinating catacombs we have ever seen.

Palermo Travel Tips

You probably don’t need a car here..

Palermo is one of the two major airport hubs in Sicily (Catania is the other), and if you arrive to the island here, we recommend not picking up your rental car until you’re ready to head to Cefalù–it’ll save you both a bit of cash on your rental bill, and a bit of a headache, as you won’t have to worry about parking it.

3 tuk tuks on the street in Palermo, Sicily

The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center is the train.

It costs 5 Euros, avoids the hassle of a taxi, and is perfectly comfortable!

Stay in an ideal location, and you should be able to walk everywhere in Palermo.

This is the biggest reason not to kick off your Sicily road trip until after to leave Palermo: here, a car is a liability but doesn’t really add much of a benefit.

You can walk between all of Palermo’s best things to do, so opt for that instead!

Pretoria Fountain of Palermo Sicily from above, one of the best places to visit in Sicily itinerary

Where to Stay in Palermo

Il Lapino  — Home to simple rooms (some with shared bathrooms) and located only a 10-minute walk from the Palermo Cathedral, Il Lapino is very well-reviewed and is an excellent place to stay in Palermo for those on a budget.

Check rates & book your stay at Il Lapino!

Ciuri Ciuri B&B  — Featuring spacious rooms, included breakfast, and an excellent location, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B while in Palermo!

Check rates & book your stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B!

Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel  — Boasting near-perfect reviews, Palazzo Natoli is located in the heart of Palermo, just steps from some of the city’s best highlights. Private balcony views, exceptional customer service, and a delicious daily breakfast are all included here–if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing stay in Palermo, this is it!

Check rates & book your stay at Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel!

Square in Palermo: Best Things to Do in Palermo Sicily

Cefalù : 2 Days

Of all the places to visit in Sicily, this is the one outlined on this Sicily road trip itinerary that we personally have the most unfinished business with.

We squeezed a quick visit to Cefalù into one day, but this magnificent seaside town captured our hearts and absolutely deserves more time than that–as we strolled the streets of Cefalù, we fantasized about one day returning here for a month!

In other words, don’t rush: you won’t regret taking two of your 10 days in Sicily to enjoy this beautiful place.

Jeremy Storm sitting on a wall overlooking Cefalu beach, a fabulous stop during a Sicily road trip itinerary

What to Do in Cefalù

Climb to the top of la rocca..

Climbing high over Cefalù to La Rocca takes less than an hour but rewards you with stupendous views over Cefalù and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as providing some interesting stops along the way (namely, the ruins of the Temple of Diana).

Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and ideally, complete this climb in the morning or early evening–the midday sun is brutal up here!

Check out the Cefalù Cathedral.

Not many villages as small as Cefalù have cathedrals as impressive–dating back even further than Palermo’s Cathedral, the Cefalù Duomo is absolutely worth visiting during your Sicily road trip, and if the views at La Rocca weren’t enough for you, you can even climb to the top!

Cefalu Cathedral with a vespa parked in front of it, one of the best things to see on a Sicily road trip itinerary

Enjoy being a beach bum.

One of the best things to do in Cefalù is simply to enjoy its beach that is conveniently located right outside of the old town, where you’re never far from gelato or a granita.

Pull up a stretch of sand, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the beauty of Cefalù without stress.

Cefalu Beach in Sicily Italy, with towels for sale on the right and the sea visible on the left, one of the best places to visit in Sicily travel

Cefalù Travel Tips

Savor getting lost here..

The small streets and occasional unexpected sea views give Cefalù a delightful charm that completely captivated us during our Sicily travels–this small village is worth wandering aimlessly, and due to its small size, it’s impossible to get too lost along the way.

Small street of Cefalu Sicily with cars parked alongside it

Where to Stay in Cefalù

Sweet Home Cefalù  — Located practically next door to Cefalù’s beach and complete with both a balcony and a small kitchen, Sweet Home Cefalù gets rave reviews and is the perfect option for budget travelers in Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Sweet Home Cefalù !

Marina House — What’s better than a well-reviewed apartment in the heart of Cefalù? One that’s located right on the water and includes a balcony overlooking the sea!

Check rates & book your stay at Marina House!

Casa Barone Agnello — Housed in an antique home in the center of Cefalù, this impeccably decorated and well-reviewed apartment is perfect for travelers looking for a bit of old-world charm during their trip to Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Barone Agnello!

Restaurant with outdoor tables shaded by awnings outdoors in Piazza Duomo in Cefalu, as seen on a Sicily road trip

Taormina: 2 Days

Taormina is probably the most touristic place on this Sicily itinerary, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth adding to your Sicily travels.

Boasting phenomenal views of both Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea, great swimming nearby, and an incredible Greek theatre, Taormina is hard not to love.

View of Taormina as seen from grounds of the Greek theatre. You can see the bottom of Mount Etna, the peak is covered by clouds.

What to Do in Taormina

Visit the greek theatre..

Of all the Greek theatres we have visited in world–including ones in Greece itself–this one is by far the prettiest we have ever seen, and a visit here absolutely belongs on your 10 day Sicily itinerary.

On a perfectly clear day, you’ll see an epic view of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea behind the theatre–but even on a slightly cloudy day like when we visited (at least over Mount Etna, that is), the views are still pretty phenomenal.

Kate and Jeremy standing in Greek Theatre in Taormina--visiting this place is easily one of the best things to do in Taormina! Kate and Jeremy are facing each other, Kate is wearing a floral maxi dress.

Take a day trip to Mount Etna.

Want to add a little thrill to your list of things to do in Taormina? Book a day trip to the crater of an active volcano!

On a clear day, the views of  Mount Etna  from Taormina are fantastic–but there’s still nothing like standing on an active volcano with your own two feet.

Whether you want to book  a morning hike ,  a scenic tour , or  a full day trip  that also includes a visit to the beautiful Alcantara Canyons, you’re bound to find a visit to Mount Etna that appears to your travel style.

Book your day trip to Mount Etna today! Morning Hike  |  Scenic Tour  |  Full Day Trip

Go for a swim at Isola Bella.

Home to what are widely considered to be the best beaches in Taormina, summer visitors should definitely add a visit to Isola Bella to their Sicily road trip itinerary!

Though you can easily reach the island yourself from Taormina via the cable car,  a cruise along the coast  paired with visits to the island’s best swimming spots is an excellent day to spend a hot day in Taormina!

Book your  boat cruise around Isola Bella  today!

Photo of the Ionian Sea as seen from Taormina. There are cacti in the foreground of the photo.

Taormina Travel Tips

Not everything is within walking distance..

In order to visit some of Taormina’s most popular sights like Isola Bella, and its beaches in general, you’ll need to head down to the seaside via cable car.

Check the weather carefully.

If you’re in town for a couple of days and one day looks clearer than the other, use the clearer day to visit Mount Etna (or if you don’t want to head all the way to Mount Etna, admire views of it from the Greek Theatre).

kate storm sitting on a garden wall in taormina sicily overlooking the ionian sea, one of the best places to visit in italy summer

Where to Stay in Taormina

Hostel Taormina  — Boasting great reviews and a perfect location in Taormina’s Old Town, Hostel Taormina is the perfect place for budget travelers looking to keep costs down in what is arguably Sicily’s most expensive city.

Both private rooms and dorms are available, and a shared kitchen is located in the hostel.

The only downside? No parking options–so keep that in mind if you choose to book a stay here!

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Taormina!

Photo of Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina Sicily

Hotel Natalina  — We had a great time at this little hotel!

The location is a short walk from Taormina’s Old Town, the included breakfast quite large by Italian standards, and the customer service excellent. The staff helped us park our rental car for free nearby, which we greatly appreciated!

The rooms are large, but a bit dated–this certainly isn’t a luxury hotel, but it’s definitely a cozy enough place to stay while visiting Taormina, and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Natalina!

Hotel Continental  — Want to admire the sea views that Taormina is famous for from the comfort of your hotel, while also staying in the lap of luxury?

If so, the Hotel Continental is for you!

Known for its superb location in the heart of Taormina, its views, and its wonderful included breakfast, luxury travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Continental!

Photo of a street in Taormina Sicily with cars parked on either side. There's a church visible toward the back of the photo.

Syracuse: 2 Days

Packed with ancient ruins, beautiful churches, and a maze of quiet streets, Syracuse (or Siracusa) is second only to Taormina in tourism popularity for Sicily vacations.

For your 2 days in Syracuse, we recommend focusing primarily on the island of Ortigia (or Ortygia), which is a small island right off the coast of Sicily (and I do mean right off the coast–no ferry necessary) that is essentially Syracuse’s lovely old town.

Parade in Syracuse Sicily with a drummer in the foreground looking away from the camera

What to Do in Syracuse

Check out castello maniace..

Located on the far edge of Ortigia, this citadel-slash-castle dates to the 13th century (an earlier castle on the site dated to the 11th) and boasts beautiful views over the Ionian Sea.

Stroll through the small streets of Ortigia.

Ortigia is a charming place, and we found that we loved it most when wandering the streets in search of coffee bars, churches (we stumbled across one with a festival going on inside!), and the island’s many ruins.

Be sure to make your way to the Piazza Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa during your wandering!

small street in Syracuse Sicily with flags outside the shop windows

Marvel at the Temple of Apollo.

Of all the ancient ruins in Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo is considered the most important.

Dating to the 6th century BCE, the temple has served a whole host of functions over the centuries, including acting as a temple to both Apollo and Artemis, as a church (more than once), and as a mosque.

Syracuse Travel Tips

Stay in ortigia if you can..

This is essentially the old town of Syracuse and is set on an island nearby the main part of the modern city.

It’s beautiful, easy to get lost in, and delightfully fun to explore on foot, making it the perfect place to stay in Syracuse. 

The only catch is what to do with your car, which leads me to…

Church on the island of Ortigia in Syracuse Sicily, as seen on a Sicily road trip

Choose where you park in advance.

Parking is severely restricted on the island of Ortigia, and on our Sicily road trip we ended up driving in circles for a bit trying to find the right place to leave our car.

Learn from our mistakes and plan carefully beforehand!

Consider visiting the Greek Theatre on your way into or out of Syracuse.

Syracuse’s Greek Theatre is one of its most popular attractions, however, it’s completely across town from Ortigia.

It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick sightseeing break as you arrive in or leave the city, though.

Empty road in Sicily with green fields on either side

Where to Stay in Syracuse

Room Calafatari — Ortigia is peppered with dozens of small, simple apartments that are used as budget rentals, and Room Calafatari is both a great option and the perfect example of what to expect in Ortigia in a budget price range: no frills but a great location.

Check rates & book your stay at Room Calafatari!

Hotel Posta — With a fabulous location overlooking a port and within a short walk of many of Syracuse’s top attractions, Hotel Posta is a prime choice for mid-range travelers on their Sicily road trip.

Personally, we’d be tempted to upgrade to a room with a balcony–those views are just too good to pass up.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Posta!

Hotel Livingston — With excellent reviews, and included breakfast, and a prime location on the edge of Ortigia (most rooms include a sea view!), luxury travelers (or just those looking for a splurge) can’t go wrong with a stay at 4-star Hotel Livingston during their 10 day Sicily itinerary!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Livingston!

Pastry and cappuccino breakfast in Syracuse Sicily shot from above

Val di Noto: 2 Days

Sicily’s Val di Noto is littered with stunning Baroque towns, rolling hills, lovely wine country, and some of the best chocolate in the world–in other words, it’s definitely a place that belongs on your 10 days in Sicily itinerary.

What to Do in the Val di Noto

Hop between the beautiful baroque towns..

Eight of the towns in the Val di Noto are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their incredible Baroque architecture: Ragusa, Modica, Noto, Scicli, Palazzo Acreide, Caltagirone, Militello in Val di Catania, and finally, Catania itself.

Obviously, that is a bit much to cover with just 2 days of your trip to Sicily.

We recommend prioritizing Ragusa, Noto, Modica, and if you have time, Scicli.

Church in Ragusa Sicily set on a steep hill as seen during a Sicily travel itinerary

Admire views of Ragusa Ilba.

Beautiful Ragusa is divided into two sections: Ragusa Superiore (the upper town) and Ragusa Ilba (the lower town).

The views of Ragusa Ilba looking down from Ragusa Superiore may just be some of the best views in this entire Sicily itinerary, which is really saying something!

Kate Storm in a blue skirt overlooking Ragusa Ilba from Ragusa Superiore, one of the best views on this 10 days in Sicily itinerary

Snack on chocolate in Modica.

The beautiful town of Modica is world-famous for its chocolate, which boasts a recipe that originally hails from none other than the Aztecs.

The chocolate is created with “cold processing”, giving it a characteristic grainy texture, inconsistent color, and delicious taste.

Val di Noto Travel Tips

Choose where to stay carefully..

Think about your travel style when you choose where to stay in the Val di Noto: do you want to be the heart of the action? Do you want to be able to do plenty of sightseeing without driving? Would you prefer a countryside stay so that you can easily come and go without worrying about parking or driving through a town to do so?

Personally, we chose to stay in Ragusa for its relative popularity and central location and were very happy with the choice.

Prosciutto and cheese platter with bread as seen from above--be sure to eat plenty of delicious food like this during your 10 days in Sicily!

Don’t try to see more than 1-2 towns a day.

The Baroque towns of the Val di Noto may look very close together on a map, but add in small, winding roads, the hassles of finding a place to park and making your way (often uphill) to the picturesque town centers, and the delights of savoring each spot, and it’s definitely best to limit your movements when possible.

We recommend sticking to seeing 1-2 towns per day in this section of your Sicily road trip itinerary.

Steep staircase in Ragusa with a church tower on the right and Ragusa Ilba visible in the distance

Where to Stay in Val di Noto

For the sake of simplicity, we’ve outlined a few well-reviewed places to stay in Ragusa here, but staying somewhere like Modica or Noto will also easily work with this 10 day Sicily itinerary!

SanVito Hostel — With excellent reviews, a prime location in Ragusa near Piazza San Giovanni, an included breakfast, and a gorgeous terrace offering panoramic views of the Val di Noto, SanVito Hostel is a phenomenal option for budget travelers during their Sicily road trip.

Check rates & book your stay at SanVito Hostel!

Hotel Il Barocco — Cozy and comfortable, this small hotel is located in a 19th-century building in central Ragusa, making it the perfect launching pad for your sightseeing. With excellent reviews and a fabulous included breakfast, Hotel Il Barocco is a reliable choice in Ragusa for your Sicily vacation.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Il Barocco!

San Giorgio Palace — Located in the heart of Ragusa Ilba, popular San Giorgio Palace boasts very spacious rooms, as well as modern decor and amenities (including a very well-reviewed included breakfast) in a picture-perfect setting, with some rooms that overlook the valley.

Check rates & book your stay at San Giorgio Palace!

Plate of pasta in Sicily Italy as seen from above

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days in Sicily–or you just prefer an even more fast-paced Sicily road trip–there are plenty more incredible places to visit in Sicily to add to your list!

Here are a few more beautiful places to see in Sicily that you might want to add to your itinerary.

View of Sicily with the Meditteranean Sea in the foreground, taken from a plane window

The ancient Valley of the Temples outside of Agrigento is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Sicily.

Once a thriving Ancient Greek city, these ruins are remarkably well-preserved and far less crowded than many better-known Greek ruins throughout Europe.

Located just outside of Palermo, Mondello is best known today for its long stretch of beach, which is one of the most popular places for beach days for both tourists and locals who are staying in Palermo.

This laid-back beach town is perfect for kicking back and enjoying long stretches of sandy beach–in fact, if you want a little more swimming to be included on your Sicily vacation beyond what’s outlined in this 10 day Sicily itinerary, you can even add a quick stop in Avola during your drive from Syracuse to the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto.

Long stretch of empty beach in Avola Sicily with the clear sea visible on the left, an excellent stop on any Sicily road trip itinerary

Aeolian Islands

Also sometimes called the Lipari Islands, this stunning volcanic island chain is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts some of the most magnificent sea views in all of Sicily (which is, as you can imagine, very high praise).

Located in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city and second airport hub–you’ll likely fly into and out of either Palermo or Catania (in fact, for this Sicily road trip itinerary it’s easiest to fly into Palermo and out of Catania if you can swing it).

Though Catania is far from Sicily’s most popular tourist attraction, it’s definitely worth a bit of exploring if you happen to be passing through!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Driving in Sicily truly deserves its own post, but here are some essential tips to know before embarking on your Sicily road trip!

Shop around for your rental car.

There are dozens of rental car companies operating in Sicily, all with their own prices and rental agreements. We recommend shopping through Discover Cars in order to search through multiple companies at once.

Not only will you be able to compare prices easily, but you’ll also be able to compare rental inclusions (like insurance, kilometers allotted, etc.), which we found varied dramatically among different rental car companies in Sicily!

Price Sicily rental cars with Discover Cars today!

Jeremy Storm leaning against a small black Sicily rental car looking out over an empty road in Sicily

The driving honestly isn’t as bad as it is portrayed… but it’s not easy.

There’s no way around it: driving in Sicily has a pretty terrible reputation.

However, ultimately, we walked away feeling that driving in Sicily was easier than expected–but we fully admit this impression is likely partially because of how nervous we were about doing it.

The major roads in Sicily are perfectly well maintained–smaller roads, not so much, so beware of potholes. City driving is the trickiest while traveling between cities on major highways is fairly simple.

Drivers can be a bit aggressive, yes, but we wouldn’t say they were drastically more aggressive than in, say, Tuscany.

As much as Sicily has a reputation for being its own world, particularly when it comes to driving, driving in Sicily felt pretty much like driving anywhere else in Italy (which is, admittedly, a harder place to drive than some).

Bear in mind that we are coming at this from the perspective of people who drove daily for nearly a decade and have road-tripped through many countries, including Italy, before. You do need to be a confident, well-practiced driver to comfortably drive in Sicily.

Taking a Sicily road trip if driving makes you anxious, you’re out of practice, you don’t like to drive, or you’ve never driven outside your home country is likely not the best idea.

Also–this is not the place to learn to drive a manual. Unless you are very confident with one, we recommend paying extra for an automatic transmission.

Porta Nuova, Best Things to Do in Palermo Sicily

… But be sure you have insurance (preferably with no deductible/excess).

We didn’t incur any damage to our rental car in Sicily… but when we dropped it off, both rentals parked on either side of us had huge dents in them!

Due to the aggressive driving, small roads, and distances covered on this Sicily road trip, we’d recommend purchasing insurance with no deductible/excess for the time it takes you to work through this 10 day Sicily itinerary–it’s simply one less thing to worry about on the road.

Winding roads in Sicily with Ragusa Ilba visible in the background, a must-see during 10 days in Sicily

Rent the smallest car you can manage.

Tiny roads. Cramped historic centers. Parking lots where cars are parked a mere inch apart (and the lines denoting where the parking places should be seen as mere suggestions at best–people park over them regularly).

Truly, renting a big car in Sicily is a liability, not a benefit. 

We recommend renting the tiniest car you can squeeze your group + luggage into. If the rental desk suggests an upgrade? Turn it down.

Carry lots of coins.

You will pay tolls when driving in Sicily, especially in northern half of the island, so come prepared with a cupholder full of Euros.

Coast of Sicily near Avola with the sea visible on the right side of the photo, as seen on a Sicily road trip

Don’t underestimate the time it takes to drive between destinations.

There were days that we pulled into our hotel’s parking space exactly when Google Maps said that we would–and days (like the day we had to catch a flight) that we ended up way behind schedule due to road work and an unfortunate accident that we got stuck behind.

Definitely leave yourself plenty of extra time on days that you have somewhere to be at a specific time!

Quiet street in Francavilla Sicily on a rainy day with cars parked along the edge

July and August are peak tourism season in Sicily, and while the beaches will be warm and the sun shining, it’s best to avoid taking your Sicily road trip during those months if you hope to avoid peak crowds and prices.

Luckily, Sicily is characterized by its brilliant weather that allows for swimming over nearly half the year! 

Personally, we’d recommend aiming for a September or early October trip to Sicily if you hope to swim your heart out, and a late April or May trip if you want to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds while still thawing out after a long winter.

Over the winter, lots of small, tourist-focused businesses close and the island, especially in smaller towns, quiets down significantly–but if a slow-paced, off-season 10 days in Sicily itinerary sounds right up your alley, you’ll certainly find plenty of peaceful spots to savor.

View of a beach along the Ionian Sea as seen by peaking through a gate at Villa Comunale, one of the best places to visit in Taormina Sicily!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Sicily road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing  for trips to Italy.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your Sicily road trip. Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy with World Nomads that covers car rental (only some of theirs do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: in Sicily, it’s worth the peace of mine.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car in Sicily, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before coming to Italy. It is required for all car rentals in Italy, and while the rental company may not ask, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. 

day tours sicily

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

day tours sicily

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4 photos of Sicily. From top left: Cefalu Cathedral, Taormina from above, Ragusa from above, beach near Avola. Black and red text on a white background reads "the ultimate 10 day sicily itinerary"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

13 thoughts on “The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary”

From someone who has family and typically visits for +30 days every other year, you did a very nice job with the article….many, many other wonder ful places to see and things to experience on the island, and the Eolian, and Egadi…..

Thanks Anthony! We can’t wait to make it back and explore more of Sicily.

Oh waooo Its amazing to know these valuable Information provided by you. Next month we have plan to visit Sicily and these information will be very helpfull. Thank you

Happy to hear that, Josef! Hope you guys have a great time in Sicily. 🙂

Wow! That was a very helpful article! I am bookmarking it multiple places so I don’t lose it before our trip in June. Thank you so much for your great tips and very practical advice.

Thanks, Vrinda! Hope you guys have a blast in Sicily!

Quiet a lot of information . One question if not interested in driving then the other options .

You definitely can visit Sicily without a car, but it’s a bit trickier than up on the mainland where there’s more train service.

Essentially, without a car your options are to stick with one town or city as a base and use guided tours to visit more rural areas, cobble together an itinerary with train and bus service (doable, but not as simple as in, say, Florence), or sign up for a full multi-day guided tour of Sicily.

Personally the first option falls most in line with how we tend to travel. Taormina is one of the most popular bases for a trip like that, as many cruise ships stop there and there are lots of options for guided tours to Mount Etna, wine country, etc.

AMAZING info, and helpful tips. Planning a trip to sicily, for 14 days aiming for minimum driving. Landing in Catania-bus to Taormina-bus to Ortiga-car rent from Syracuse-Noto-Cefalu and fly from Palermo. Your thoughts? What would you change? Any tips will be appreciated . Thanks Suzanne

Thanks so much, Suzanne!

Sounds like a very reasonable itinerary, and I think you’ll have a great time! Definitely double-check the bus schedules as you go, especially if you happen to be traveling on any Sundays.

If you have time, I’d visit Ragusa and Modica when you’re in Noto (you may already be planning that, of course).

I think you’ll have an amazing trip–enjoy a cannolo for us!

Hi, Flying into Palermo and flying back to Rome (would like to spend at least 1 day in Rome). With that in mind, the top places to see and duration for a 10 days which include the arrival date. Thank you very much 🙂

Hi Claudia,

Are you looking to spend that time traveling overland from Palermo to Rome, or are you wanting to spend most of your time in Sicily and then fly to Rome at the end of your trip? There are so many possibilities!

Either way, I’d recommend 2 days in Rome instead of one in most cases–it’s a enormous city, and one of our favorites in the world! We have itinerary suggestions for both one and 2 days in Rome, if you want to see how much you can cover: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-rome-in-a-day/

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Home » Malta Tours and Excursions » Day tours to Sicily from Malta

Day Tours to Sicily from Malta: Taormina, Mt Etna & More

Are you considering taking a tour of Sicily from Malta?

You’ve come to the right place!

Get ready to explore some of Sicily’s most picturesque villages and beautiful towns with my selection of day tours to Sicily from Malta .

As a seasoned traveller, I’ve taken several trips to Sicily from Malta, and in this guide, I’ll provide you with the best options for a fantastic day out.

Visiting Sicily from Malta on a Day Tour

Want to visit Sicily as an option for tours and excursions on a trip to Malta ? Whether you’re planning a short break with a loved one, a friend, the whole family or perhaps a solo adventure, there are several Sicily tours from Malta that provide travellers with a unique experience to discover the marvels of this island and all it has to offer.

A knowledgeable local guide will accompany you throughout the entire duration of the trip while you can sit back, relax and enjoy a day filled with great stops and loads of fun!

Top 3 Day Tours to Sicily from Malta

Onto the fun stuff! From the top attractions to the key highlights and everything in between, we’ve compiled the most popular Sicily tours from Malta below to help you decide which one works best for you.

#1 – Fully-Guided Day Trip of Taormina and Mount Etna

Get ready to discover the everchanging landscapes of Sicily, Mount Etna and the picturesque Taormina . This is a great tour for travellers who are up for an adventure that has a little bit of everything.

Looking for tours and excursions in Malta and Gozo?

Get my recommendations on the best day trips, boat trips, excursions and activities and book in advance!

Book tours and excursions in Malta.

  • Taormina Greek Theatre
  • Piazza IX Aprile belvedere
  • Amazing restaurants, bars and shops
  • Isola Bella

Known for famous landmarks such as Il Teatro Antico di Taormina, Villa Comunale di Taormina, Il Duomo di Taormina and Isola Bella, Taormina is a dream for all those travellers who want to live the Sicilian dolce vita lifestyle.

The elegant Corso Umberto will delight all shopaholics who want to get their hands on Sicilian jewellery, antiques, clothes, and some souvenirs. Finally, don’t forget to snap a photo at the iconic Piazza XXV Aprile !

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Check out my two guidebooks full of local knowledge and my best recommendations for your trip, and up-to-date for 2024 !

Malta & Gozo guide book Valletta : An Insider’s Guide to Malta’s Capital

Take the hassle out of planning your trip to Malta and be an informed traveller!

  • Largest and Most Active Volcano in Europe
  • Mediterranean Flora and Fauna on the lower slopes

Towering Catania is none other than the great Mount Etna—the largest active volcano in Europe and the most active stratovolcano in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Mt Etna continues to fascinate tourists, locals and scientists from all over the world.

#2 – Fully-Guided Day Trip of Syracuse, Noto and Marzamemi

The Syracuse, Noto and Marzamemi tour is perfect for anybody who has a deep appreciation for culture, history and Sicilian gastronomy.

Syracuse, a popular destination for Sicily tours from Malta.

  • Piazza Duomo
  • Parco Archelogicio della Neapolis
  • Ortygia is the heart and soul of Syracuse
  • Palaces and Churches

Once regarded as the largest city in the world, Syracuse takes you back in time as you discover archaeological sites and ancient Greek ruins that are over 2000 years old.

Its story begins in 734 BC when the Corinthian settlers arrived in Ortygia and spent four years building the mainland city. A few millennia later, the ruins of this ancient city now occupy the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis.

Now regarded as the old town of Syracuse, Ortygia is undoubtedly one of Syracuse’s most beautiful quarters. Piazza Duomo is lined with famous palaces, and of course, the magnificent Duomo is a true celebration of Greek, Byzantine, Norman and Sicilian baroque.

Noto is a beautiful village and great destination on tours from Malta to Sicily.

  • Sicily’s Baroque Capital
  • Church of Santa Chiara
  • The Cathedral of San Nicolò
  • Corso Vittorio Emanuele

Constructed after the devastating earthquake in 1693, Noto has sought to become t he capital of Sicilian Baroque and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in Sicily.

The town centre is built on a grid system created by Giovanni Battista Landolina, consisting of the famous main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele , along with three piazzas filled with intricate baroque balconies, magnificent churches and more charming 18th-century buildings.

Marzamemi Sicily

  • Origins date back to Arab Rule
  • Piazza Regina Margherita
  • Known for its colourful buildings
  • Great place for seafood lovers

Marzamemi is a typical Sicilian village best known for its bright blue doors, wooden fishing boats and colourful decor. In its very essence, it captures the idyllic Italian lifestyle and is the perfect lunch spot for seafood lovers!

Back in the 10th century, the Arabs put Marzamemi on the map by building the Tonnara di Marzamemi . Although it is no longer in use, artisanal fishing is still very popular, and so are delicacies such as bottarga (dried tuna roe).

#3 – Fully-Guided Day Trip of Modica, Ragusa Ibla & Scicli

A day tour of Modica, Ragusa Ibla and Scicli is set to take you on a journey that celebrates baroque architecture in all its glory.

Modica Sicily

  • The City of a Hundred Churches
  • The Sicilian Homeland of Chocolate
  • Cathedral of St George
  • Best explored on foot

Known as La Città delle Cento Chiese , Modica is yet another Sicilian wonder. Best explored on foot, this town is quite an elegant yet mysterious town. As you discover the picturesque viewpoints, stairways and hidden alleyways, you’ll uncover more hidden gems that are all part of this Modica’s charm.

Modica is also known as the City of Chocolate . To this day, chocolate makers from Modica still use the authentic recipe created by the Aztecs of Mexico to make their delicacies.

Ragusa Ibla

  • The City of Two Souls
  • Great place to enjoy an aperitif near the Duomo
  • Stunning views from Giardino Ibleo
  • Narrow streets filled with churches and palaces

Brimming with castles, gardens and even more baroque buildings, La Città delle Due Anime captures the beauty of the modern city (Ragusa Superiore) with the ancient one of Ibla.

Glorious buildings such as the Duomo di San Giorgio is a great representation of the typical baroque architecture style that spread across Sicily after the earthquake of 1693. If you just want some time to relax,  the Giardino Ibleo is the perfect place to take in the postcard moments as you admire the view of the valley.

Scicli Sicily

  • Known as the Nativity Scene City
  • Palazzo Benventano
  • Via Francesco Mormino Penna
  • Chiesa di Santa Maria la Nova

Although less known than its neighbours Noto, Ragusa and Modica, Scicli warrants a visit.

Located just off Piazza Italia , you can’t miss the spectacular Palazzo Benventano . Alongside its ornate swirls and decorative style, you simply can’t miss the Saracen gargoyles adorning the facade of this landmark.

Ferry Information – Tours to Sicily from Malta

Have you decided where you’re heading to? Then it’s time to book your tour! In the next few sections, we’ll be going through the essential passenger information you’ll need before your trip.

  • Choose your desired Sicily tour: Mt. Etna and Taormina , Syracuse, Marzamemi & Noto or Modica, Ragusa Ibla & Scicli
  • Select your preferred dates
  • Add the number of travellers
  • Confirm your booking

Port Locations

The ferry from Malta to Sicily departs from Valletta (near the Valletta Waterfront) and arrives in Pozzallo, Sicily, in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes . Should you require local transport to get to Valletta, Bus 130 will take you directly to the port location.

Departure Times

As far as departure times go, this depends on your chosen Sicily trip, but generally, all ferries leave as early as 5.00 am so that you can make the most out of the day.

With this in mind, be aware that your tour can be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances such as rough weather. In such cases, the company will issue a full refund of the ticket.

Valletta Waterfront

Visa Requirements to Enter Sicily

Along with a valid passport, visitors travelling from a non-E.U. country need to apply for the Italian Tourist/Visitor short-stay visa to enter Sicily.

How long is the ferry ride from Malta to Sicily?

The ferry ride from Malta to Sicily lasts approximately 1hr 45 minutes.

Can I visit Sicily from Malta?

Yes, you can visit Sicily from Malta easily. Apart from organised day trips, you can also take the ferry to Sicily from Valletta (which you can board on foot or by car).

Is it possible to see Sicily from Malta?

Yes, it is possible to see Sicily from Malta on clear days. The coast of Sicily over the sea line is quite visible, and Mt Etna can also be seen to the left looking out from Marsalforn, Gozo.

Picture of About the Author: Edward Lansink

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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A first-time guide to Italy

Duncan Garwood

Feb 28, 2024 • 8 min read

day tours sicily

One of the best things to do in Italy? Spend time on the water (coast, lake or canal) © Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

With its iconic monuments, timeless landscapes and irresistible food,  Italy is one of Europe’s most alluring destinations. Its historic cities promise thrilling art and architecture at every turn while its varied coastlines and Alpine heights provide a stunning outdoor playground.

In fact, the country is so packed with possibilities that it can seem almost overwhelming. Where should I go? How do I get there? How much will it cost? This planning guide tackles these questions and provides clear practical advice on how to get the most out of your first Italian trip.

Cloud swirl round craggy Peaks of the dolomites in Italy as forests run down the hillside turning from green into yellows reds and oranges in the autumnal glow with a Russian-style church, Church St. Johann in Ranui, stood at the bottom of the field

When should I go to Italy?

The short answer is anytime. Spring and fall are best for sightseeing , touring and seasonal food. It’s warm without being stifling and nature is in full color. But with the glorious blue-sky weather come crowds and high-season prices in the main cities.

Summer sees cities empty as holidaymakers head to the coast. Prices skyrocket in popular areas, peaking in mid-August when beaches are packed and resorts full. Meanwhile, the festival season swings into gear with high-profile events such as Il Palio di Siena, featuring a wild bareback horse race around Siena 's Piazza del Campo , and Spoleto’s Festival dei Due Mondi , with musicians, artists and actors performing to passionate throngs.

Winter is generally quiet – except in ski resorts – and it can be wet and cold. But low season rates and empty museums make it a decent option for a city break.

How much time do I need to visit Italy?

Realistically, you’ll need at least two or three days in top cities such as Rome , Florence and Venice . That won’t give you enough time to cover everything, but it will allow you to get a feel for the place and explore some of the headline attractions.

If you’re happy to move fast, you could cover Italy’s highlights on a whistle-stop 10-day tour. That would give you a couple of days each in Venice and Florence, a day in Bologna , Pisa and Naples , and three days in Rome. Alternatively, you could focus on a particular area. For example, with a week you could explore southern Tuscany and parts of neighboring Umbria , or cut a swathe through Sicily’s baroque southeast .

Train station on the coast in the small village of Manarola with colorful houses on cliff overlooking sea.

Is it easy to get in and around Italy?

Italy is well served by air with flights from across the world. Major airports include Rome Fiumicino (officially Leonardo da Vinci) and Milan Malpensa , the two main intercontinental gateways, Venice Marco Polo , Pisa International (for Florence and Tuscany), Naples International  and Catania (Sicily’s busiest airport). There are also excellent rail and bus links, especially to northern Italy, and ferries to Italian ports from across the Mediterranean.

Once in Italy, you've got transport options . Trains are best between major cities and along the coasts, while buses are better for the mountains and hilly inland areas. For more remote parts you’ll really need your own wheels. Most major cities have decent public transport, though you can often cover their historic centers on foot.

Young woman tourist fashion white dress with spritz cocktail in front of panoramic view of Rome cityscape from campidoglio terrace at sunset. Landmarks, domes of Rome, Italy.

Top things to do in Italy

Tour rome’s greatest hits.

First port of call for many travelers is Rome, Italy’s charismatic capital. You’ll never be able to cover all of its monuments and masterpieces, but there are some you won’t want to miss. The Colosseum and Pantheon are obvious highlights, along with the Roman Forum and Palatino . Then there’s the Vatican where you’ll find St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel (in the Vatican Museums ). And, of course, you’ll want to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure you return to the Eternal City.

For a taste of authentic Roman cuisine, try a slice of pizza from Forno Roscioli or a pasta carbonara at Flavio al Velavevodetto in the Testaccio neighborhood.

Marvel at masterpieces in Florence

One and a half hours north of Rome by train, Florence is the second of Italy’s ‘big three’ (Venice completes the trio). Visitors have been rhapsodizing about the city for centuries and still today it thrills with its Renaissance palazzi (palaces), frescoed churches and artworks such as Michelangelo's David at the Galleria dell'Accademia , Botticelli’s Birth of Venus at the Galleria degli Uffizi , and Brunelleschi’s red dome atop the landmark Duomo . Art apart, there are markets and boutiques to explore and Negroni cocktails to be sampled, including at the historic Caffè Rivoire .

With more time, you could add a day-trip to Siena or a tour of the Chianti wine country .

Several gondolas offer their tourist services very early in a new day of the beautiful city of Venice as they punt beneath the Bridge of Sighs

Get lost in Venice’s backstreets

As soon as you set foot in Venice you know it’s special. And confusing. To get your bearings take vaporetto (water bus) No 1 along the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco where you’ll find several landmark sights. Chief among these are the Basilica di San Marco and the Gothic Palazzo Ducale , former residence of the ruling Doge. Elsewhere, you can catch modern art at the world-class Peggy Guggenheim Collection and browse colorful produce at the centuries-old Rialto Market .

To fuel your wanderings, Venice is famous for its cicchetti (bar snacks). A top spot for these is the canal-side Bracaro ae Bricoe bar in the Cannaregio sestiere (neighborhood).

Feast on pizza, art and street life in Naples

With Mt Vesuvius brooding on the horizon, Naples is sprawling, loud, sometimes edgy and often magnificent. Its Dickensian backstreets are a joy to explore and its regal palaces showcase world-class collections of Greco-Roman antiquities and baroque art – check out the Museo Nazionale Archeologico and Cappella Sansevero for a glimpse. Then, of course, there’s the city’s revered pizza, served at historic pizzerias such as Da Michele .

Beyond the city, Pompeii is an easy day trip and the Amalfi Coast is within striking distance via the sunny resort town of Sorrento .

A woman in a flowery dress admiring sunset over Lake Como and Bellagio old town in Italy

Cruise the Italian Lakes

Ringed by brooding Alpine summits and steep wooded slopes, the Italian Lakes have been a popular holiday spot since ancient times. At Lake Maggiore , you can explore the Isole Borromee with their ornate palaces and lavish gardens, while further east you can go celeb-spotting on Lake Como , cruising around its exquisite villas and villages.

To reach the lakes you’ll often have to pass through Milan , Italy’s northern powerhouse. A day here would be enough to take in some of its signature sights: Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper , the fairy-tale Duomo , the Quadrilatero d’Oro shopping district.

My favorite thing to do in Italy

Italy’s obvious beauty and blockbuster sights abound, but what I love are its simple pleasures: a leisurely lunch in a favorite trattoria, the sight of pine trees towering over Roman ruins, a glass of prosecco on a Venetian canal-side.

I also love wandering around Rome and seeing how its life plays out against a backdrop of ancient monuments and historic palazzi . There’s always something going on and even without trying I usually come across something special, an amazing baroque fountain or a teeming market in a medieval square. The city’s streets really are an experience in themselves. I mean where else can you wait for a tram just yards from where Julius Caesar was stabbed?

Diverse young women friends eating italian take away pizza in city street - Multiracial female having fun together on summer vacation

How much money do I need for Italy?

Italy isn’t cheap. Accommodation rates vary enormously between places and seasons but prices are universally high in popular destinations. That said, you can still find deals if you book early and avoid peak periods. Sightseeing can also add up with top sites charging top dollar. On the plus side, eating out doesn’t have to cost the earth, especially if you stick to pizza and gelato.

Some average daily costs:

  • Double room in an agriturismo (farm stay) €40-80
  • B&B room €60-140
  • Coffee (standing at a bar) €1.10
  • Midrange meal €25-35
  • Glass of wine €5-8
  • Museum admission €10-20
  • Public transport ticket (Rome) €1.50 for 100 minutes unlimited travel (but only one metro ride)
  • High-speed train ticket Rome to Florence €55

Frequently asked questions

This is italy, so do i have to dress up all the time.

In a word, no. When sightseeing go for comfort, especially when it comes to shoes – you’ll be walking a lot and cobbled streets can be murder on the feet. Note also that major religious sights often enforce dress codes, so make sure you can cover your shoulders, torso and thighs. For going out in the evening, smart casual is the way to go.

What’s the score with tipping?

Tipping is not strictly necessary in restaurants as most places add servizio (service) to the bill. If they don’t or if you want to leave something, a few euros is fine in pizzerias and trattorias; 5% to 10% in smarter restaurants.

What’s this about not drinking a cappuccino after 11am?

Italy has a whole (unwritten) rule book on the dos and don’ts of drinking. As a foreign visitor you’ll get a pass if you order the wrong drink at the wrong time, but it helps to know that Italians regard cappuccinos as breakfast drinks, call an espresso un caffè , and drink beer with pizza.

What’s the card vs cash situation?

Businesses are legally obliged to accept digital payments but it’s always best to have some cash on you. You probably won’t have any problems but it’s not unheard of for payment machines to be mysteriously broken in smaller bars, shops, museums or restaurants. Major credit cards are widely accepted (Amex less so).

This article was first published May 24, 2019 and updated Feb 28, 2024.

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Regular Day Tours From Siracusa

Joining one of our suggested  Regular Day Tours from Siracusa is a great opportunity to discovery the splendour of Sicilian baroque through the visit of two cities belonging to the UNESCO site “Val di Noto”: Ragusa Ibla and Modica.

You’ll be astonished by the architecture of magnificent, fancy palaces and churches, and you’ll have the chance to taste typical Sicilian dishes dining in a local trattoria.

Give to your tour a sweet taste by trying the renowned, scrumptious Modica’s chocolate, still made following the ancient Aztec recipe passed down by Spaniards.

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For Art Lovers, These One-of-a-Kind Italian Itineraries Were Made for You

These five art-focused tours mix in history, cuisine, outdoor adventure, and more across florence, rome, venice, and beyond for delightfully enriching trips..

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Courtesy of HFerreira/Unsplash/Collette

Venice, Italy

Courtesy of HFerreira/Unsplash/Collette

Italy, as the seat of modern civilization, has an impressive, centuries-old artistic legacy that’s perhaps best experienced on a guided tour. Of course, visiting Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a must for art and architecture enthusiasts traveling to Italy. Once a modest trading hub ravaged by the plague, it blossomed into a cultural center thanks to the patronage of the Medici family who nurtured the creativity of luminaries like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. But there’s even more for art lovers to explore in Italy, from ancient Roman ruins and the gorgeous baroque architecture of Sicily to the renowned design of fashion icons like Ferragamo and so much more.

To fully immerse yourself in Italy’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, it’s essential to choose the right mode of exploration. That’s where the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) comes into play. Whether you’re focused on art alone or want to incorporate elements of history, cuisine, or outdoor adventure into your travels, USTOA tour operator members offer expertly designed itineraries that cater to various interests.

Booking a group tour with a USTOA tour operator lets you enjoy distinctive experiences that combine different elements, guaranteeing your trip will be more comprehensive and satisfying. Also, USTOA tour operators prioritize transparency, safety, responsible tourism practices, and environmental preservation, guaranteeing convenience, reliability, and enrichment throughout your travels.

Given Italy’s vast offerings, it’s impossible to experience everything in a single trip. That’s why we’ve curated five unique tours for art lovers, recognizing that one visit to Italy can’t cover everything this fascinating country has to offer.

SUBHED 1: Experience Tuscany, the epicenter of Renaissance art

Italy conjures images of not just exceptional art but also vineyards, olive groves, and floating cities. You can have it all on Collette’s 12-day Italy’s Treasures guided tour. In Tuscany, you’ll see iconic landmarks and the timeless beauty that define Florence. You’ll also do a few unexpected things like venturing to the marble quarries of Carrara aboard off-road vehicles, tracing Michelangelo’s footsteps, and exploring unexpected attractions like the Apuane Mountains, where quarrymen carved roads for precious stone extraction.

In the Tuscan countryside in Chianti, you’ll stay for four nights at a tranquil villa. You’ll learn Tuscan cooking at a family-owned villa and delight in a typical lunch paired with the region’s famous wine.

You’ll also have the chance to explore other regions of Italy, like the picturesque lakeside town of Stresa, known for its charming piazzas and cobblestone streets. Here, a guide will lead you through the exotic gardens of Borromeo Palace, followed by cocktails and antipasto snacks at a wine shop. The following day, a nearby mountain village awaits, offering artisanal cheeses and local wines served by a welcoming local family. There will also be plenty of time to get lost in the labyrinth of canals and bridges in Venice, where you can immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere and lively squares.

Collette is known for offering plenty of free time for personal exploration. Founded in 1918, the company provides tours to places on every continent. With destination experts around the world, Collette’s tours are designed by travelers for travelers. They include must-see sights, cultural experiences, accommodations, dining, transportation, and expert guides.

Explore Sicily’s baroque architecture on a cycling tour

Scenic sight in Modica with the Cathedral of San Pietro and the Duomo of San Giorgio in the background. Sicily, southern Italy.

View of Sicily

Courtesy of iStock/VBT Bicycling Vacations

Embark on a genuine Sicilian adventure, blending art, culinary delights, and outdoor thrills on VBT Bicycling Vacations’ Italy: Sicily, the Noto Valley & Syracuse Guided Biking tour, circling the largest island in the Mediterranean. You’ll stay in historic accommodations, such as an 18th-century villa transformed into a hotel, still managed by the same family for generations.

With two local guides, you’ll pedal along seaside paths and explore the stunning baroque towns of the legendary Noto Valley. Scicli has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for the extraordinary beauty and the importance of its late-baroque architecture, built after a devastating earthquake in 1693. In the evening, you’ll follow a local guide on a 40-minute walking tour, strolling the city and witnessing the magnificent architecture lit up at night.

You’ll fuel up for all the activity with incredible Sicilian food. Yes, there will be plenty of pasta alla Norma and gelato. You’ll also have lunch on an organic farm with a local family, learn about Sicilian cooking from your hotel chef, and taste wine and olive oil at an organic winery. Recover from all that cycling with some relaxation on the beach while staying in the restored fishing village of Marzamemi.

With more than 50 years of experience, VBT Bicycling Vacations works with the best local guides to provide active and immersive journeys around the world. Their exceptional trips consistently highlight local cuisine, authentic accommodations, and rich cultural encounters. They offer insider access that breathes life into destinations through carefully planned biking itineraries.

Experience the fusion of art and gastronomy in Tuscany and Cinque Terre

Italy, Tuscany, Firenze district, Florence, Sunset over the city with Palazzo Vecchio and the Cathedral (Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore), view from Michelangelo Square

Luigi Vaccarella/SIME / eStock Photo

The eight-day Tuscan Treasures with Cinque Terre experience with CIE Tours kicks off in Montecatini Terme, a historic spa town with rejuvenating baths dating back to Roman times, nestled in the hills of Tuscany. One evening, you’ll head to Fattoria il Poggio, an agriturismo farm that embodies the spirit of sustainability. Explore the vineyard and olive grove, savor wine and olive oil tastings, and enjoy traditional, home-cooked cuisine.

No visit to Tuscany is complete without seeing Florence. With the help of a local guide and “skip-the-line” VIP access, you’ll admire architectural landmarks like the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s David statue up close in the Accademia Gallery.

You’ll also explore medieval Siena on an orientation walk with your tour director and see iconic sites like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the scenic coastal villages of Cinque Terre. Your journey concludes with a stop in San Miniato for a truffle hunt with a local expert and their trusty dog, followed by a truffle-themed luncheon.

CIE Tours specializes in unforgettable experiences like these, drawing on upwards of 90 years of expertise. With renowned guides and distinctive all-inclusive itineraries, they make it possible for guests to fully immerse themselves in local culture, connect with fellow adventurers, visit dream destinations, and uncover gems known only to locals.

Enjoy exclusive art experiences in Tuscany and the Italian Riviera

Courtesy of Tauck

Basilica di Santa Croce

Courtesy of Tauck

Tauck’s eight-day journey to Tuscany, Cinque Terre & the Portofino Coast offers unparalleled opportunities for private tours, such as an early-opening, private visit to Florence’s Basilica di Santa Croce, the resting place of Michelangelo and Galileo, and a guided walking tour of Florence’s historic center. You’ll visit the Uffizi Galleries to marvel at Renaissance masterpieces like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus . Additionally, you’ll explore La Cervara, a 14th-century abbey with exquisite gardens, on a docent-led visit.

You’ll also unwind in a stylish Italian Riviera hotel and explore the paths that follow the shoreline of Cinque Terre National Park. Then, you’ll work up an appetite by cycling along the famous preserved walls of Lucca before a wine and olive oil tasting and learning the art of pasta-making from some local chefs.

Tauck, owned and operated by a family of avid travelers for nearly 100 years, delivers authentic travel experiences through exclusive access with some of the best guides in the world. With all-inclusive trips spanning seven continents, including river and small ship cruising, land journeys, and family adventures, Tauck continually raises the bar to find new ways to connect travelers more deeply with the places they explore.

Uncover the connection between Italian art and design in Rome and Florence

Courtesy of Globus

Courtesy of Globus

Globus’ seven-day guided That’s Amore!: Italy by Design tour through Italy promises a taste of la dolce vita while exploring Roman ruins, visiting famous museums, and admiring architectural masterpieces. Follow in the footsteps of Roman painter Pietro Cavallini and wander through the historic streets of Trastevere. Today, this former working-class enclave has a bohemian vibe with trendy shops, cafes, and bars. You’ll then explore the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica and Roman archaeological area, followed by a delightful gelato tasting.

In Florence, you’ll navigate legendary Renaissance landmarks on a relaxed bike tour. You’ll also stop at the Ferragamo Museum, showcasing more than 10,000 shoe designs. With an expert guide, uncover secrets like the ancient art of perfume making at Officina di Santa Maria Novella, Europe’s oldest pharmacy, and savor renowned regional wines amid views of the Chianti hills in San Gimignano.

Moments like these exemplify the Globus commitment to delivering once-in-a-lifetime journeys, one scene, sight, and story at a time. The company ensures its guests don’t just visit remarkable places around the world but truly experience them through immersive encounters.

For these tours and many others that mean expertly planned trips, access to VIP and off-the-beaten-path experiences, local and knowledgeable guides, around-the-clock service, and more, head to USTOA .

Kayaking in Alaska

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Abbey Clancy has legs for days in stylish bikini on romantic holiday

The former britain's next top model judge and tottenham star peter crouch are living it up in sicily  .

Kate Thomas

We can always count on Abbey Clancy to give us summer holiday inspiration, and she's just done it again.

Rocking a tiny white bikini during a romantic break to Sicily with husband Peter Crouch , the 38-year-old model looked absolutely amazing in a slew of sun-soaked Instagram snaps shared over the weekend.

The Therapy Crouch podcast host looked incredible as she gazed out to sea from her private villa's balcony, wearing a skimpy white two-piece. Another envy-inducing photo from their break showed the couple – who left their four children Liberty, Sophia, Johnny and Jack at home – cuddling up together.

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While Abbey was rocking stylish swimwear, former Tottenham and Liverpool striker Crouch sported a pair of rather jazzy swimming trunks. "The best few days," Abbey captioned the photographs.

Abbey Clancy posing on balcony in Sicily wearing white string bikini

It's plain to see that the pair keep in great shape, but that doesn't mean they don't enjoy a drink or two or indulge in delicious food on holiday.

Abbey shared a photo of two glasses of chilled white wine and they also tucked into delicious-looking artichoke pizza during a romantic rendezvous at a local restaurant.

Abbey Clancy in whitw bikini and Peter Crouch shirtless in swimming trunks

In another upload from their dreamy getaway, Abbey and Peter were seen living it up on a yacht, enjoying a private tour of a bay and enjoying some champagne on board.

Peter was seen rocking gingham shorts as the pair enjoyed a relaxing day on board. 

Abbey Clancy abs in bikini on boat with Peter Crouch

The pair looked incredibly bronzed, with Abbey sporting a green baseball cap as she draped herself over her husband for a sweet photo opportunity.

The couple seemed to be having a wonderful time enjoying well-deserved time away from the routine of family life at home with their four children.

Abbey Clancy wearing white bikini on prow of boat with Peter Crouch

Abbey Clancy's fitness regime

Abbey isn't a slave to the gym and relies on being a busy mother of four to keep her in good shape.

Abbey Clancy and Peter Crouch earting salad and pizza in Sicily

She previously told Your Fitness Today magazine that pushing a pram counted as her daily exercise, saying: "I hate running, I can't do it but I love a family bike ride or pushing the pram with my 20 million stone baby!"

Then the toning element comes from reformer Pilates, I love it."

Abbey Clancy and Peter Crouch drinking white wine on the balcony in Sicily

The former Britain's Next Top Mode l judge reportedly enjoys £12-a-go classes at Bootcamp Pilates, which is also one of Elizabeth Hurley's got-tos for keeping in shape.

Bootcamp Pilates guru Dominque Day previously told The Sun : "Our workouts differ from traditional gym ones as they don’t bulk up muscle and you get a gorgeous Pilates body as seen with Abbey."

Peter Crouch in shorts waving from balcony in Sicily

The legs and limbs are leaner and longer – but ultimately that’s down to the strength of the core."

DISCOVER:  Abbey Clancy and Peter Crouch's expanding family: everything couple has said

Abbey also loves horse riding, especially in the summer, and swears by outdoor activities like walking to keep her fit. 

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