10 day itinerary for Sicily

Itinerary

Sicily is a stunning destination with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a delightful 10-day itinerary that balances nature walks and historical sites, perfect for two couples looking to explore the beauty of this Italian gem.

## Day 1: Arrival in Palermo

Morning: Arrive in Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Stroll through the historic center. Visit the Palermo Cathedral and the Quattro Canti square. Don’t miss the Piazza Pretoria with its stunning fountain.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Sicilian dinner at a local trattoria. Try the arancini (fried rice balls) and cannoli for dessert!

## Day 2: Monreale and Cefalù

Morning: Head to Monreale (about 30 minutes from Palermo) to visit the breathtaking Monreale Cathedral, famous for its golden mosaics.
Afternoon: Drive to Cefalù (about 1 hour). Explore the charming medieval town, relax on the beach, and hike up to the La Rocca for stunning views.
Evening: Dinner in Cefalù with fresh seafood and local wine.

## Day 3: Valley of the Temples and Agrigento

Morning: Depart for Agrigento (about 2 hours). Visit the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the ancient Greek ruins.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Agrigento, then take a nature walk in the nearby Scala dei Turchi, famous for its white limestone cliffs.
Evening: Return to Agrigento for dinner, perhaps trying the local couscous.

## Day 4: Piazza Armerina and Enna

Morning: Drive to Piazza Armerina (about 1 hour) to see the stunning Villa Romana del Casale, known for its well-preserved Roman mosaics.
Afternoon: Continue to Enna (about 30 minutes), the highest provincial capital in Italy. Explore the Castello di Lombardia and enjoy panoramic views.
Evening: Dinner in Enna, sampling local specialties like sfinciuni (Sicilian pizza).

## Day 5: Mount Etna

Morning: Head to Mount Etna (about 2 hours from Enna). Take a guided tour or hike on the lower slopes of Europe’s highest active volcano.
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the craters. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a cable car ride to higher altitudes.
Evening: Drive to Taormina (about 1 hour) for dinner. Stroll through the charming streets and enjoy the views of the coast.

## Day 6: Taormina

Morning: Visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, which offers stunning views of Mount Etna and the sea.
Afternoon: Take a nature walk in the Alcantara Gorges, where you can explore the beautiful river and its unique rock formations.
Evening: Dinner in Taormina, perhaps at a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the sea.

## Day 7: Siracusa

Morning: Drive to Siracusa (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius.
Afternoon: Explore the Ortygia Island, the historical heart of Siracusa. Don’t miss the Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Ortygia, sampling local seafood dishes.

## Day 8: Noto and Vendicari Nature Reserve

Morning: Head to Noto (about 30 minutes) to admire its stunning Baroque architecture. Visit the Noto Cathedral and stroll through the charming streets.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Enjoy a nature walk along the coast, and if you’re lucky, you might spot flamingos!
Evening: Return to Noto for dinner, trying the local cannoli for dessert.

## Day 9: Modica and Ragusa

Morning: Drive to Modica (about 1 hour). Explore the town and visit a chocolate shop to taste the famous Modica chocolate.
Afternoon: Continue to Ragusa (about 30 minutes). Visit the Ibla district, known for its stunning Baroque buildings and the Duomo di San Giorgio.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Ragusa, perhaps trying the local pasta alla Norma.

## Day 10: Return to Palermo

Morning: Drive back to Palermo (about 2.5 hours). If time allows, stop at Segesta to see the ancient Greek temple and theater.
Afternoon: Spend your last afternoon shopping for souvenirs or visiting any sites you may have missed in Palermo.
Evening: Celebrate your last night with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying the views of the city.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local wines, especially Nero d’Avola and Cerasuolo di Vittoria.
• Consider renting a car for flexibility in exploring the island.
• Don’t forget your camera; Sicily is incredibly photogenic!

Enjoy your Sicilian adventure! It’s going to be a trip filled with unforgettable memories! 🌞🍷🏞️