5 day itinerary for Sicily

Itinerary

Here's a suggested itinerary for 5 days in Sicily that will allow you to relax, enjoy delicious food, take in stunning views, hit the beach, and stay within your budget:

Day 1: Arrival in Catania

• Arrive at Catania airport and check into your hotel.
• Spend the day exploring the city's historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, and the Ursino Castle.
• For dinner, head to one of the many trattorias in the city center and try some traditional Sicilian dishes like pasta alla Norma or arancini.

Day 2: Taormina

• Take a day trip to Taormina, a picturesque hilltop town overlooking the Ionian Sea.
• Stroll along Corso Umberto, the main street lined with shops and cafes, and visit the ancient Greek Theater.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with a view of Mount Etna and the sea.
• In the afternoon, head to Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. Relax on the beach and swim in the crystal-clear water.

Day 3: Syracuse

• Drive to Syracuse, another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Greek ruins and Baroque architecture.
• Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which includes a well-preserved Greek theater, a Roman amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius, a limestone cave with incredible acoustics.
• Have lunch at a seafood restaurant in the Ortigia neighborhood, which is also home to the Piazza del Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa.
• In the evening, head back to Catania and have dinner at a local pizzeria.

Day 4: Mount Etna

• Take a guided tour of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe.
• Drive up to Rifugio Sapienza, a ski resort at 1,900 meters above sea level, and take a cable car and jeep ride to reach the summit area.
• Walk around the craters and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Have lunch at a mountain hut and try some local specialties like grilled sausage and mushrooms.
• In the evening, head back to Catania and have dinner at a street food market.

Day 5: Catania

• Spend your last day in Sicily exploring more of Catania's hidden gems.
• Visit the Benedictine Monastery, which houses a beautiful baroque library and a collection of ancient artifacts.
• Take a stroll through the colorful fish market and try some fresh seafood.
• Relax at the beach of San Giovanni Li Cuti, located just a few minutes from the city center.
• For your final dinner, head to a trattoria and indulge in some delicious Sicilian desserts like cannoli or cassata.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Sicily!