A One-Week Itinerary of Sicily
Historic Small Towns and Gorgeous Coastlines
Ready to craft the perfect adventure around Sicily, but unsure about where to kick things off, which places to hit, the budget, or how many days to plan for? This itinerary is perfect for you because it's packed with all the essentials to create a spectacular seven-day journey. You'll be able to see the delicious food, beautiful locations, couples, and hiking along the way.
Along the way, you'll discover gorgeous beaches, picture-perfect views, gourmet food, and quaint small towns surrounded by rolling hills. We'll start with some of the many reasons to visit this fantastic region. Then, we'll cover travel details such as the route, the estimated costs, things to do along the way, where to stay, and more.
This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:
- Catania (3 days)
- Cefalu (2 days)
- Palermo (2 days)
Palermo, Italy
Itinerary Highlights
- Great for couples
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Small Town Charm
- Beaches
- Beautiful Locations
- Historic Sites
- Delicious Food
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
- Hiking
Ensure you include visits to the region's delightful small towns in your plans. They present a fantastic chance to connect with and experience the local culture. In particular, make sure you visit Cefalu for that quintessential small town charm.
You can't pass up a trip to the area, especially for its fantastic beaches. Imagine yourself lounging on the sandy shores, soaking up the good vibes, and taking it easy in the water. The beaches in the vicinity of Palermo and Cefalu are unmissable gems.
The mesmerizing landscapes of Sicily are a major draw for visitors, defining the essence of the region. Grab your camera because the real-life view is far superior to anything you've seen in photos. You don't want to miss Cefalu for the beautiful scenery.
You'll also be able to uncover the rich and vibrant history of Sicily. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic architecture, museums, and deep historical culture that permeates the area.
It's no secret that amazing food is a major draw for travelers, and Sicily holds its own with fantastic cuisine. Your journey promises an abundance of remarkable restaurants and local dishes that deserve your attention. In particular, make sure you visit the restaurants in Palermo, Catania, and Cefalu.
Sicily is all about scuba diving and snorkeling, and you wouldn't want to miss it. The waters boast remarkable clarity and are home to a wealth of marine life. Make sure to set aside some time to get into the water.
Don't overlook the incredible hiking opportunities in Sicily; they're simply too good to miss. Plan to spend some time on the local trails for jaw-dropping views, rejuvenating fresh air, and a satisfying workout to boot. Some of the most amazing scenery is found around Cefalu.
Catania and Mt. Etna
When is the best time to visit?
If you're looking to escape the cold weather for a warmer destination, then Sicily is for you. It's a popular getaway with travelers not just because of the great weather, but also for the many activities and attractions. It can get quite popular in the winter, so plan ahead.
You can easily dive into the vibrant energy of summer in Sicily, a season that attracts plenty of visitors. While crowds are part of the deal, the flip side is that all attractions and amenities will be at your fingertips, making it an ideal time to explore.
Spring is a terrific time to visit Sicily. You'll find plenty of natural beauty, great weather, and inspiring destinations.
Autumn in Sicily offers a cooler climate, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the added perk of dwindling tourist crowds as the season unfolds. Consider this time of year for a visit if you are able to work it into your schedule.
Who is this itinerary for?
Sicily isn't just a fun destination, it's also a haven for couples seeking a romantic getaway. If you and your loved one are on this adventure together, you're in for a special treat. Especially visit Cefalu for the enchanting atmosphere.
The region is a gem for families, offering plenty of kid-friendly activities that promise to turn your trip into an unforgettable and joy-filled experience. We'll get into some of the details later. In particular, make a point to visit Catania and Palermo.
Traveling on a shoestring budget or backpacking in the area? No worries, as there are abundant options for you. From budget-friendly hostels and economical hotels to cost-free activities, affordable dining, and an inviting social environment, your trip is sure to be fabulous without burning a hole in your pocket. Spending more time in Catania can especially help your budget.
Transportation
Traveling between these destinations in Sicily should be fairly easy for you, considering that most are around 3 hours apart on average.
We selected Catania as the starting point because it offers plenty of transporation options. At the end, this itinerary loops back around to the start to make it convenient, but you could also arrive or leave from any destination along the way. To get to Catania, you can see flight prices and schedules here.
To navigate this itinerary with ease, do it with a car. If you aren't in a position to bring your own, no problem, just rent a car. Having your own vehicle in Sicily means you're in control of your schedule and can make pit stops whenever you feel like it.
As a general rule, buses present a highly effective way to navigate the area. Known for their affordability, efficiency, and comfort, it's an easy way to get around on a tight budget. Check out the prices and compare for yourself.
Is seven days enough time in Sicily?
To see all of the highlights, seven days will give you a comfortable amount of time to explore the highlights in Sicily. This detailed itinerary will make sure that you see the best parts of each place. You'll be able to plan a trip that's fun, relaxing, and efficient. If you find yourself wanting to see more, you can always extend your stay or schedule more time in a specific place, as it's entirely up to you. With an array of day trip possibilities, flexibility is key. However, if you're short on time, consider adjusting this schedule for a shorter yet fulfilling experience. While cutting out a few stops is feasible, we recommend aiming for around seven days to truly take it all in.
How much does a seven-day trip to Sicily cost?
Let's break down the estimated budget for this specific seven-day adventure in Sicily, assuming you stick to the plan outlined below. Drawing on actual spending data from travelers and cost data from major travel companies, the daily average costs below are per person. They exclude transportation, as that can vary depending on your choices. Consider this breakdown as a financial roadmap, with mid-level hotels, regular dining, and key attractions aligning with these estimates. Anyone seeking cheaper options can opt for hostels, budget hotels, and more affordable food options. On the flip side, embracing luxury hotels, upscale dining, and private tours will make you go well beyond this budget.
| City | Daily Average | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catania | $130 | 3 | $391 |
| Cefalu | $128 | 2 | $257 |
| Palermo | $99 | 2 | $198 |
| Total per Person | $846 | ||
| for 2 People | $1,692 | ||
The estimated cost for this seven-day adventure in Sicily is approximately $846 per person, according to our calculations. It's worth noting that this does not cover transportation between destinations. That part is entirely dependent on your chosen mode of travel.
Accommodation Costs
Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through Sicily based on calculated averages.
Hotel Prices
The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Sourced from Kayak's hotel data, it's crucial to recognize that these figures exclude taxes and fees. Think of these averages as representative of mid-range hotel experiences, yet, keep in mind, that it's possible to spend more or less, particularly if you opt for budget-friendly lodgings or indulge in high-end luxury hotels. These prices will usually be higher during peak travel season, too.
| City | Average Hotel Room Price | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catania | $63 | 3 | $189 |
| Cefalu | $127 | 2 | $254 |
| Palermo | $74 | 2 | $148 |
| Total Expected Hotel Cost | $591 | ||
Hostel Prices
If you're on the lookout for budget-friendly options during your journey, hostels are a terrific option catering to younger or solo travelers. The prices listed below detail the average expenditure for a dorm bed in a hostel at each destination. While privacy may take a backseat in a hostel dorm, the vibrant atmosphere often transforms these shared spaces into social hubs, creating wonderful chances to meet up with fellow travelers. It's important to note that many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher cost than dorms, with additional benefits like kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are calculated from available hostel data from HostelWorld.
| City | Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| Catania | $24 |
| Palermo | $24 |
Sicily Itinerary
1. Catania
3 Days
Catania is the second largest city in Sicily. It has a large student population that keeps the nightlife scene active and fun. There are also many historical sights around the small old town. Many visitors also take a day trip to Mt. Etna which is a truly unique Sicilian experience.
With big city activities, museums, hiking, nightlife, and delicious food, Catania offers so much to visitors. It's also a great destination for families and backpackers because of everything available.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Catania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list.
What to See in Catania
How to Spend 3 Days in Catania
Day 1:
When visiting Catania, you can't miss Mount Etna as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy it.
The delicious food of Catania is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this port city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.
Catania is a very walkable city. With only a day in the port city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.
Day 2:
Known for it's hiking, Catania sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.
This port city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.
Public transit in Catania is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the port city quite easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.
Day 3:
The beautiful beaches await you in Catania, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.
More Activities
Dive in to all of the activities, attractions, tours, and things to do available in Catania. Here are a few of the best options for you to consider, compare prices, and secure your bookings in advance for a seamless and enjoyable visit.
If you're looking for more information and things to do in Catania, see The Best Mount Etna Hiking Tours in Catania, The Best Airport Transfers in Catania, The Best Wine and Vineyard Tours around Catania, and The Best Godfather Movie Tours in Catania.
Catania Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Catania average around $130 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Catania here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $9 | $22 | $50 |
| Food2 | $18 | $44 | $102 |
| Entertainment1 | $8 | $21 | $51 |
| Alcohol2 | $8 | $19 | $44 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Catania, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $63, calculated from the data of 558 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Catania here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Catania offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $24. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Catania.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Catania to Cefalu.
Buses from Catania to Cefalu are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
2. Cefalu
2 Days
Cefalù is a coastal town on the northern side of Sicily. It's filled with charm and personality. It also has nice beaches and beautiful blue waters and it makes a nice destination for a relaxing beach vacation.
With hiking, delicious food, and beautiful locations, Cefalu offers so much to visitors. It's also a great destination for couples and families because of everything available.
How to Spend 2 Days in Cefalu
Day 1:
The beautiful beaches await you in Cefalu, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.
Cefalu is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The charming town and the striking blue waters make this a beautiful destination for travelers.
Cefalu is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the fishing village, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. The town is small enough to explore on foot.
Day 2:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.
The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.
More Activities
Dive in to all of the activities, attractions, tours, and things to do available in Cefalu. Here are a few of the best options for you to consider, compare prices, and secure your bookings in advance for a seamless and enjoyable visit.
Cefalu Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Cefalu average around $128 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Cefalu here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $2 | $5 | $9 |
| Food2 | $13 | $30 | $58 |
| Entertainment1 | $3 | $6 | $12 |
| Alcohol2 | $5 | $12 | $22 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Cefalu, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $127, calculated from the data of 272 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Cefalu here.
Suggested Hotels
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Cefalu to Palermo.
Buses from Cefalu to Palermo are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
3. Palermo
2 Days
Palermo is the capital of the Italian island of Sicily. There are many beautiful buildings and a long running history to the city. There are also impressive beaches, a unique local cuisine, and a fun atmosphere that is filled with markets and activities.
With big city activities, museums, snorkeling and scuba diving, nightlife, and delicious food, Palermo offers so much to visitors. It's also a great destination for families because of everything available.
What to See in Palermo
How to Spend 2 Days in Palermo
Day 1:
The beautiful beaches await you in Palermo, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.
You'll absolutely want to spend some time enjoying the food scene in this city, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine for a meal or two. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.
Palermo is a very walkable city. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.
Day 2:
Shopping in Palermo is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.
This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.
More Activities
Dive in to all of the activities, attractions, tours, and things to do available in Palermo. Here are a few of the best options for you to consider, compare prices, and secure your bookings in advance for a seamless and enjoyable visit.
If you're looking for more information and things to do in Palermo, see The Best Airport Transfers in Palermo, The Best Walking Tours in Palermo, The Best Cooking Classes in Palermo, and Mondello Beach.
Palermo Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Palermo average around $99 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Palermo here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $2 | $6 | $16 |
| Food2 | $14 | $31 | $52 |
| Entertainment1 | $7 | $18 | $39 |
| Alcohol2 | $5 | $12 | $22 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Palermo, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $74, calculated from the data of 855 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Palermo here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Palermo offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $24. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Palermo.
Final Transportation
As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Catania.
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Palermo to Catania.
Buses from Palermo to Catania are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.
Next Steps
So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your seven-day trip in Sicily, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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