13 day itinerary for Sicily

Itinerary

Sicily is a stunning destination with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. With 13 days to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the beauty of this island. Let’s dive into your itinerary, keeping in mind your stops in Castellammare del Golfo and Burgio.

## Day 1: Arrival in Catania (CTA)

• Morning: Arrive at Catania Airport. Pick up your rental car (a must for exploring Sicily!).
• Afternoon: Head to Catania city center. Explore the bustling fish market (La Pescheria) and grab a bite at a local trattoria.
• Evening: Stroll around Piazza del Duomo and admire the stunning Catania Cathedral. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 2: Catania to Taormina

• Morning: Drive to Taormina (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the ancient Greek Theatre for breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the coastline.
• Evening: Wander through the charming streets, stopping for gelato. Dinner with a view at a restaurant overlooking the sea.

## Day 3: Mount Etna Adventure

• Morning: Take a guided tour to Mount Etna. You can hike or take a cable car to explore the craters.
• Afternoon: Visit a local winery on the slopes of Etna for a wine tasting and lunch.
• Evening: Return to Taormina. Relax and enjoy a leisurely dinner.

## Day 4: Taormina to Cefalù

• Morning: Depart Taormina and drive to Cefalù (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful medieval town, visit the Cefalù Cathedral, and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.

## Day 5: Cefalù to Palermo

• Morning: Drive to Palermo (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Palatine Chapel and the Norman Palace. Don’t miss the vibrant Ballarò Market for some street food!
• Evening: Dinner in the historic center, perhaps trying arancini (rice balls) and cannoli for dessert.

## Day 6: Explore Palermo

• Morning: Visit the Catacombs of the Capuchins and the stunning Teatro Massimo.
• Afternoon: Explore the Quattro Canti and Piazza Pretoria. Take a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Garden.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Sicilian dinner in one of Palermo’s many trattorias.

## Day 7: Palermo to Castellammare del Golfo

• Morning: Drive to Castellammare del Golfo (about 1.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore the charming town and visit the castle. Relax at the beach or take a boat tour.
• Evening: Dinner at a local seafood restaurant, enjoying the sunset over the harbor.

## Day 8: Zingaro Nature Reserve

• Morning: Spend the day at Zingaro Nature Reserve. Hike the trails and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
• Afternoon: Swim in the crystal-clear waters at one of the reserve’s beaches.
• Evening: Return to Castellammare del Golfo for dinner and a leisurely evening.

## Day 9: Castellammare del Golfo to Burgio

• Morning: Depart for Burgio (about 1.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore the quaint village, visiting the Church of San Bartolomeo and the local artisan shops.
• Evening: Enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local agriturismo, experiencing authentic Sicilian cuisine.

## Day 10: Valley of the Temples

• Morning: Drive to Agrigento (about 1 hour) to visit the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Explore the ancient ruins and enjoy lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Return to Burgio for a relaxing evening.

## Day 11: Burgio to Siracusa

• Morning: Depart for Siracusa (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the archaeological park, including the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius.
• Evening: Stroll through Ortigia Island, enjoying dinner at a waterfront restaurant.

## Day 12: Explore Siracusa

• Morning: Visit the Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa. Explore the charming streets of Ortigia.
• Afternoon: Relax at the beach or visit the local market for some souvenirs.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Siracusa, savoring the local cuisine.

## Day 13: Return to Catania

• Morning: Drive back to Catania (about 1 hour). Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to explore more of Catania or do some last-minute shopping.
• Afternoon: Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local specialties in each region, like pasta alla Norma in Catania, arancini in Palermo, and fresh seafood in Castellammare.
• Keep your camera handy; Sicily is incredibly photogenic!
• Don’t rush; take your time to enjoy the scenery and local culture.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Sicily! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌞✈️🍝