10 day itinerary for Sicily

Itinerary

Sicily is a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights, and with 10 days to explore, you can really soak in the beauty of this island at a relaxed pace. Here’s a delightful itinerary that incorporates your interests in wine, cooking, and the charming towns you want to visit. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Palermo

• Morning: Arrive in Palermo. Check into your hotel and take a moment to relax.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the historic center. Visit the stunning Palermo Cathedral and the Quattro Canti square.
• Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local trattoria. Try some traditional Sicilian dishes like pasta alla Norma or arancini.

## Day 2: Palermo Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Capuchin Catacombs for a unique experience. Then, head to the bustling Ballarò Market to soak in the local atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Take a cooking class! Learn to make classic Sicilian dishes, perhaps a seafood pasta or cannoli.
• Evening: Enjoy the fruits of your labor from the cooking class for dinner, paired with some local wine.

## Day 3: Cefalù

• Morning: Drive or take a train to Cefalù (about 1.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at the beach or explore the charming old town. Don’t miss the Norman Cathedral!
• Evening: Dine at a seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and a glass of local wine while watching the sunset.

## Day 4: Cefalù to Etna

• Morning: Depart Cefalù and head towards Mount Etna (about 2 hours). Stop at a winery on the way for a tour and tasting.
• Afternoon: Arrive at Etna. Consider taking a guided tour to explore the craters and enjoy the stunning views.
• Evening: Stay overnight in a nearby town like Taormina. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with views of the volcano.

## Day 5: Taormina and Surroundings

• Morning: Explore Taormina. Visit the ancient Greek Theatre and take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to a local cooking class focusing on Sicilian cuisine, perhaps making dishes with local ingredients.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Taormina, sampling more local wines.

## Day 6: Etna to Ragusa

• Morning: Depart Taormina and drive to Ragusa (about 1.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore Ragusa Ibla, the old town, with its stunning Baroque architecture. Visit the Duomo di San Giorgio.
• Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, trying the famous Ragusano cheese and local wines.

## Day 7: Modica and Noto

• Morning: Take a short drive to Modica (about 30 minutes). Visit a chocolate shop to learn about the famous Modica chocolate.
• Afternoon: Continue to Noto (about 30 minutes). Stroll through the beautiful streets and visit the stunning Noto Cathedral.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Noto, perhaps at a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the town.

## Day 8: Ortigia

• Morning: Head to Ortigia, the historical center of Syracuse (about 30 minutes). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore the island, visiting the Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café.
• Evening: Dine at a seafood restaurant, savoring the local catch and a glass of Sicilian wine.

## Day 9: Syracuse and Surroundings

• Morning: Visit the archaeological park in Syracuse, including the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius.
• Afternoon: Take a cooking class focusing on seafood dishes, learning to prepare a traditional Sicilian feast.
• Evening: Enjoy your culinary creations for dinner, paired with local wines.

## Day 10: Return to Palermo

• Morning: Depart Ortigia and head back to Palermo (about 3 hours). If time allows, stop at a winery along the way for a final tasting.
• Afternoon: Spend your last afternoon shopping for souvenirs or visiting any sites you may have missed in Palermo.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, reflecting on your wonderful Sicilian adventure.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Renting a car is a great way to explore Sicily at your own pace.
• Wine: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite wine recommendations; Sicilian wines are fantastic!
• Cooking Classes: Book your cooking classes in advance to ensure availability.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fabulous time in Sicily! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, delicious food, and rich culture. Buon viaggio! 🍷✨