9 day itinerary for Sicily

Itinerary

Sicily is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 9-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and engaged. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Palermo

Morning: Arrive in Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. Check into your family-friendly hotel. A great option is the Hotel Palazzo Sitano, which has spacious rooms and is centrally located.

Afternoon: After settling in, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center. Visit the Palermo Cathedral and the Quattro Canti square. Kids will love the colorful street markets, especially Mercato di Ballarò, where you can sample local snacks like arancini (fried rice balls).

Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local trattoria. Try some traditional Sicilian pasta dishes, and don’t forget to order a slice of cannoli for dessert!

## Day 2: Explore Palermo

Morning: Visit the Palazzo dei Normanni and the stunning Cappella Palatina. The intricate mosaics will amaze both kids and adults!

Afternoon: Head to the Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden) for a relaxing afternoon. The kids can run around while you enjoy the beautiful plants and trees.

Evening: Have dinner in the Kalsa district, where you can find family-friendly restaurants. Try some pizza, a favorite among kids!

## Day 3: Cefalù

Morning: Take a short train ride to Cefalù, a charming coastal town. Spend the morning at the beautiful beach. The shallow waters are perfect for kids to play in.

Afternoon: Explore the medieval streets and visit the Cefalù Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb up to the La Rocca for stunning views (it’s a bit of a hike, but the views are worth it!).

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.

## Day 4: Taormina

Morning: Travel to Taormina, known for its stunning views and ancient ruins. Check into a family-friendly hotel like the Hotel Villa Schuler.

Afternoon: Visit the Greek Theatre, where kids can imagine ancient performances. Afterward, take a stroll along Corso Umberto, the main street filled with shops and gelato stands.

Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant with a view of Mount Etna. The kids will love the local pasta dishes!

## Day 5: Mount Etna Adventure

Morning: Take a family-friendly excursion to Mount Etna. There are guided tours that cater to families, including easy hikes and fun activities like a cable car ride.

Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the mountain, surrounded by stunning views. Kids will love exploring the craters and learning about volcanoes.

Evening: Return to Taormina for dinner. Try a local pizzeria for a casual family meal.

## Day 6: Siracusa

Morning: Head to Siracusa, a city rich in history. Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where you can see the ancient Greek theatre and the Ear of Dionysius.

Afternoon: Explore the Ortigia Island, the historical heart of Siracusa. The kids will enjoy the Fountain of Arethusa and the beautiful seaside views.

Evening: Have dinner in Ortigia, where you can find many family-friendly restaurants. Try some fresh seafood!

## Day 7: Noto and Modica

Morning: Take a day trip to Noto, famous for its stunning Baroque architecture. Visit the Noto Cathedral and let the kids enjoy some gelato from a local shop.

Afternoon: Head to Modica, known for its chocolate. Visit a chocolate shop for a fun tasting experience. Kids will love learning about the chocolate-making process!

Evening: Return to Siracusa for dinner. Enjoy a relaxed meal and share stories about your day.

## Day 8: Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples

Morning: Travel to Agrigento to visit the Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites. The ancient ruins are fascinating for both kids and adults.

Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the temples. Afterward, visit the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history.

Evening: Head to a local restaurant for dinner. Try some traditional Sicilian dishes, and let the kids enjoy some local pastries for dessert!

## Day 9: Return to Palermo

Morning: Travel back to Palermo. If time allows, visit the Catacombs of the Capuchins for a unique experience (it’s a bit spooky, but fascinating!).

Afternoon: Spend your last afternoon shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a final gelato in the city.

Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, reminiscing about your wonderful Sicilian adventure!

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

• Always have snacks and water on hand for the little ones.
• Consider using public transport; it’s a great way to see the sights and is often more fun for kids.
• Engage them with stories about the places you visit to spark their interest in history and culture.

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Sicily with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌞🍕🏖️