Excellent
Sicily Itinerary: 5 Days Through Taormina & Palermo
6 Days
3 Stops
Private transfer
Plan your trip
Your tailor-made itinerary – No cost, no commitment
Excellent
From$4,800
per personAccommodations
Transportation
24/7 support
Activities
Tourlane App
Travel plan
Flights
Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Greek Theatre in Taormina faces northeast toward Etna, and that orientation is the whole point: a clear morning puts the volcano framed in the cavea opening, which explains why the site has been in continuous use for two and a half millennia. The Valley of the Temples before the coach groups arrive is a completely different Agrigento; the Temple of Concordia in low slanting February light with the almond trees below the ridge is an image the postcards haven't exhausted. For Syracuse, spend the morning at the mainland archaeological park first; the Ear of Dionysius and the Greek theatre before the heat, then Ortigia's baroque piazzas and the market in the cooler afternoon.
The Greek Theatre in Taormina faces northeast toward Etna, and that orientation is the whole point: a clear morning puts the volcano framed in the cavea opening, which explains why the site has been in continuous use for two and a half millennia. The Valley of the Temples before the coach groups arrive is a completely different Agrigento; the Temple of Concordia in low slanting February light with the almond trees below the ridge is an image the postcards haven't exhausted. For Syracuse, spend the morning at the mainland archaeological park first; the Ear of Dionysius and the Greek theatre before the heat, then Ortigia's baroque piazzas and the market in the cooler afternoon.
Recommended route
Customize at any time with an expert
Taormina
Day 1 - 2
Taormina enjoys an idyllic location, favourably perched on a steep mountainside with panoramic views of Mount Etna, two grand sweeping bays and a picturesque Graeco-Roman amphitheatre. Drenched in sunshine year-round, this chic resort town attracts a steady stream of celebrities and holidaying high-rollers. Despite its unashamedly touristy atmosphere, its natural beauty is undeniable. The town’s chaotic network of winding streets is strewn with luxury designer boutiques, ancient churches and flower-filled balconies adorning beautifully restored medieval buildings and intimate piazzas. Taormina is especially magnificent on clear days when you can view the exquisite flora and flora against a backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes spewing puffs of white smoke into a mesmerizingly blue sky. Make sure to spend an afternoon picnicking in the gorgeous Giovanni Colonna Park.
Hotel Villa Belvedere
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a charming boutique hotel in Taormina, Italy, overlooking Naxos Bay and Mount Etna. It is near the famous Greek-Roman Theatre and the Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel offers elegant rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, a safe deposit box, a flat-screen TV, and a hairdryer. Guests can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine at the poolside restaurant. The hotel also has a lovely garden, a swimming pool, a tennis court, and a business centre.
Your activity
Etna Half Day Tour
Enjoy a morning tour to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Driving through some of the quaintest villages placed on the slopes of the volcano, you will reach 1,986 meters where you will be able to visit the Sylvester Craters. Afterwards, you will return to Taormina. Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is in an almost constant state of activity. The fertile volcanic soils support extensive agriculture, with vineyards and orchards spread across the lower slopes of the mountain and the broad Plain of Catania to the south. Due to its history of recent activity and nearby population, Mount Etna has been designated a Decade Volcano by the United Nations. You have the option to take the cable car from 1,986 to 2,500 meters for further exploration of the volcano's higher regions.
Syracuse
Day 3 - 4
Set along the Ionian coast of Sicily, the Italian city of Syracuse is known for its timeless beauty, citrus orchards, and ancient ruins fringed by the glittering blue ocean. History enthusiasts can visit one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites, the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, home to the 16000-capacity Roman Theatre, the 5th-century Teatro Greco and the Orecchio di Dionisio, a fascinating limestone cave. Once the largest city in the ancient world, and dating back to 734 BC, today the remnants of this spectacular time and the remaining ancient historical sites can still be enjoyed by visitors. Sip on espresso at a local cafe, stroll through the Baroque piazzas, and explore the winding medieval alleyways that traverse this beautiful city. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi, which displays local artefacts and art.
Grand Hotel des Etrangers
Grand Hotel Des Étrangers is located in the heart of Ortigia, Siracusa, celebrated as an art deco icon of timeless elegance. Guests are steps away from cultural treasures such as Castello Maniace and the historic streets of Ortigia. Rooms and suites combine beautiful design, spacious layouts, glamour, comfort, and understated style. On‑site dining includes refined mixology experiences, offering crafted drinks in a sophisticated setting. Facilities extend to spa services, meeting and celebration spaces, and exclusive offers designed to create memorable sojourns. This five‑star property embodies Sicily’s unique charm and hospitality.
Your activity
Baroque Treasures of the Val di Noto
Step into the heart of Sicily’s Baroque soul with this unforgettable private day tour exploring three jewels of the UNESCO-listed Val di Noto: Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli. Departing comfortably from Syracuse, you’ll travel through rolling countryside to discover towns perched on hillsides, rich with stunning architecture, ancient traditions, and mouthwatering chocolate. Your first stop is Ragusa Ibla, an atmospheric hilltop town that boasts over 50 Baroque churches and palaces. Wander its charming alleys, admire the ornate façade of the Duomo di San Giorgio, and enjoy panoramic views from the Iblean Garden. Next, head to Modica, famous for its grand staircases, noble palaces, and most of all—chocolate. Discover the legacy of Aztec-inspired chocolate-making techniques at a traditional Modica chocolate shop, and stroll along the lively Corso Umberto with time for a sweet tasting. Finally, explore the picturesque Scicli, often called a hidden gem of the Val di Noto. Less crowded yet equally captivating, its historic center is a film set of natural beauty, with elegant palazzi, the Church of San Bartolomeo nestled in a canyon, and the iconic town hall featured in the Inspector Montalbano TV series. Return to Syracuse in the early evening with memories of timeless beauty, culture, and flavor.
Agrigento
Day 5 - 6
Agrigento is a major tourist hub, primarily owing to the archaeological legacy of the Valley of the Temples, three kilometres below this Sicilian city. This is a misnomer, as it is not really a valley at all but a hill which is divided into two zones: the Eastern zone, containing the bulk of the impressive ruins, and the Western zone, playing host to the splendid gardens of Kolymbetra. Tourists with little time tend to focus on this area, but those on a more leisurely schedule should explore the town itself. Tucked away behind the modern city’s outer ring, a pocket of medieval areas offer bustling night-life as well as the Via Atenea at the centre - a charming suburb packed with modern boutiques, quaint cafes, and vibrant bars.
Hotel della Valle
Ideally located in Agrigento, Italy, Hotel della Valle is an ideal accommodation option for leisure and business travellers. The en-suite guest rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, workspaces, Wi-Fi, TVs, and minibars. Upgraded rooms feature sitting areas. Guests can start the day with an inclusive breakfast, enjoy mouth-watering meals at the on-site restaurant, and make use of amenities such as the swimming pool. The surrounding area offers attractions and activities such as visiting the Valley of the Temples and exploring the Scala dei Turchi.
From$4,800
per personAccommodations
Transportation
24/7 support
Activities
Tourlane App
Travel plan
Flights
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
18+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
8+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
6+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
18+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
8+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
6+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Three nights in Taormina followed by two in Palermo is a well-balanced way to read Sicily without spreading a short trip thin. The NH Collection Taormina puts you above the coastline with Etna visible from the terrace, and from that position, the half-day excursion to the volcano and the full-day trip to Syracuse both radiate outward naturally from your base.
View less details
My go-to recommendation for Syracuse: spend the first part of the day in the archaeological park. The Greek theater and the Ear of Dionysius are most compelling in the morning, before the heat and the coaches arrive. Then cross to Ortygia island in the afternoon, where the narrow streets and the harbourside have a completely different character from the ruins and reward a slower, less directed pace.
The private transfer to Palermo shifts the trip's register in the best possible way. The Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes is a historic address in the city center with genuine architectural weight, well-positioned for both the full-day Palermo and Monreale excursion and the day trip south to Agrigento and Piazza Armerina. The Valley of the Temples at Agrigento is at its most compelling early in the morning, before the organized tours arrive, or at sunset. Walking between those columns with the sea visible in the distance is one of those travel moments that is genuinely difficult to improve upon.
Why Tourlane?
Plan for free
Custom holiday packages and trips that fit your budget
Personalized for you
Itineraries built exactly to your needs
Private VIP guides
A personal English-speaking, native-European travel expert for every step
Peace-of-mind support
Full service assistance before, during, and after your trip
Custom Italy trips
Tips for your 5-day Sicily itinerary
April–June and September–October are the most pleasant months. These seasons offer warm but comfortable weather for exploring Taormina’s Greek Theatre, walking Palermo’s markets, and visiting archaeological sites like the Valley of the Temples.
On average, travelers spend about $190 per person per day, excluding flights. Budget trips start around $60/day with simple hotels and local food, while luxury options reach $330/day for boutique hotels, fine dining, and private tours. Hotels range from about $50 per night for 1–2 star stays to $110+ for higher categories. Meals are $9–$13 in snack bars, $16–$28 in casual restaurants, and $45–$80 for a three-course dinner. Excursions like Mount Etna tours cost around $90–$120.
Taormina’s Greek Theatre with Mount Etna views, Palermo’s Palatine Chapel, and Syracuse’s archaeological park are key highlights. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the mosaics of Piazza Armerina also stand out. Activities like wine tastings, guided food tours, and full-day excursions to Etna or Monreale enrich the trip.
Book tickets early for major sites such as the Palatine Chapel or Valley of the Temples. In Taormina, mornings are best to avoid crowds. Renting a car makes day trips flexible, but buses and trains are affordable for longer connections, such as Palermo to Catania.
Custom travel packages don’t have to be complicated
1
Dream it
Give us a few details like destination, travel preferences, and budget to receive a free personalized travel itinerary in minutes.
2
Customize it
In a one-on-one consultation, we pair you with an English-speaking, native-European travel expert to customize your trip even more, making it unique to you and providing in-depth knowledge on every destination.
3
Book it
Or better yet, we’ll book it for you. Every detail is covered by us and you’ll have dedicated guides with you every step of the way, so you can focus on the fun. No action needed — just enjoy the ride.
