My wife and I are planning for 2 weeks in Sicily the last week of September, 1st week of October. We will arrive by air from Rome. We like to drive when in Europe and like to get off the beaten track. Not a great fan of big cities except for "must see" sites. We very much enjoy day hiking and swimming. We love food and wine and visiting vineyards. Often stay in B&B's but splurge for great location hotels. Any recommendations on itineraries, sites, restaurants, etc. Should we skip Palermo or start there? Thanks for any thoughts.
John C
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I would start in Palermo (rent a car on your way out or find accommodations with parking, but don't plan on driving in downtown Palermo) and end in Catania for a flight out.
Some highlights for me are Monreale, Cefalu, Segesta, Erice, Agrigento, Selinunte, Piazza Armerina, Siracusa, and Taormina. Monreale, Segesta, Erice can be daytrips, the other places need more time. Ragusa and Noto can be visited from Siracusa.
There is a hotel in the archeological zone in Agrigento, for something a little different. In Siracusa, stay in Ortigia, the old town.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15585 posts
Good advice from Zoe. I visited Cefalu (2 nights, 1 day) by train from Palermo, left most of my luggage in the Palermo hotel, picked it up when I returned and then rented a car for the rest of the trip. You won't need the car in Cefalu. Visit Monreale by bus from Palermo.
For hiking with scenic sea views, stop in the Zingaro reserve not too far from Palermo.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thanks so much for your responses. Hope to incorporate most of the places mentioned into the trip. Will get car on way out of Palermo.
John
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I can give you specific hotel/B&B recommendations if you post again.
I forgot, for hiking, Cefalu has a "rocca" behind the cathedral; and some nice beach areas.
Posted by
San Diego
1540 posts
Here is very good site for tons of info on Sicily and travel info - there are hundreds of links on this site for hotels, restuarants, cafes, tours, maps, driving......
Best of Sicily