Introduction
An enchanting road trip across Sicily in June, starting in the vibrant city of Catania, where baroque architecture and bustling markets thrive under the watchful gaze of Mount Etna. Begin your journey southward to Piazza Armerina, home to the Villa Romana del Casale, a treasure trove of ancient Roman mosaics depicting scenes of daily life, myth, and hunting.
Continue to Agrigento, where the Valley of the Temples stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the grandeur of ancient Greece. Wander through the ruins of colossal Doric temples, feeling the whispers of history in every stone. Head west to Selinunte, one of Europe’s largest archaeological parks, where grand ruins and serene landscapes offer a captivating glimpse into the past.
Stopover in Castellammare del Golfo, a charming Sicilian coastal town, captivates with its historic harbor, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. The Castello a Mare fortress offers panoramic sea views and a touch of history. It is also very near the Zingaro National park.
Conclude your adventure in the charming coastal town of Cefalù. Here, medieval streets wind their way to a beautiful Norman cathedral, and the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea lap at golden sands. The town’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty creates an unforgettable Sicilian experience.
With the final days in Catania we explored the city and had a day tour with a guide that went as far as Taormina, the most popular resort in Sicily. Perched on Sicily’s east coast, is a jewel of ancient charm and natural beauty. With its breathtaking views of Mount Etna, the Greek Theatre, and charming medieval streets. It was the most touristy and busy place we visited.
We skipped Syracuse, Etna, Palermo, Marsala, Trapani, the islands. Enough for another 2 trips in future :). Ready to hit the road?
Practical Information
Arrival / Departure
Catania Airport is served by the Alibus, similar to the service in Naples. However, the schedule can be unreliable, so be prepared for potential waiting times. While it is an affordable option, it can be chaotic and crowded. Taxis offer a faster alternative, with a journey time of around 15 minutes.
The car rental stations are spread across different locations; some are inside the main arrival building, while others are a short 3-minute walk towards the rental car park. The airport itself is small, which makes arrivals quite straightforward. However, during peak times, there can be space issues when departing. Despite this, passport control is quick, and security checks are efficiently handled.
Getting around
After some research, I decided to avoid cities and large towns with the car, opting for accommodation with car parking on the outskirts. It’s worth noting that local drivers often ignore speed limits—only tourists seemed to stick to them. Traffic typically weaves around obstacles rather than yielding, but you’ll get used to it after a few days.
I downloaded a parking app recommended by a YouTube video for Sicily, but it didn’t show any of the places I wanted to park. So, keep some cash handy for parking machines and be prepared to pay for parking. Refuelling options include both serviced and self-service stations; however, the signage can be confusing, and even though I was aware of this, I still got it wrong.
I didn’t use a train and only took the city bus in Catania and the airport bus. While Google Maps has up-to-date timetables, don’t rely entirely on its timing.
Highlights
Sicily is full of highlights. Let’s start with Villa Romana del Casale is an extraordinary relic of Roman luxury in Sicily. Nestled in the heart of the island near Piazza Armerina, this villa boasts some of the most intricate and well-preserved mosaics from the Roman Empire. These floor mosaics, depicting scenes ranging from mythological narratives to everyday Roman life, are a testament to the artistic prowess of the era. The villa itself, sprawling and lavish, gives visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Roman elites. It’s a place where history and art seamlessly intertwine, offering a vivid snapshot of Roman civilization’s grandeur and sophistication.
Agrigento, home to the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, is a treasure trove of ancient Greek architecture and history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features some of the best-preserved Doric temples, such as the Temple of Concordia, which dates back to the 5th century BC. The sprawling archaeological site is set against a backdrop of rolling hills and almond groves, making it a picturesque destination. Wandering through Agrigento, one can’t help but feel a profound connection to the ancient past, as every ruin and relic tells a story of a bygone era.
Castellammare del Golfo, a picturesque coastal town, exudes Mediterranean charm with its historic harbor, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. The Castello a Mare fortress stands as a sentinel over the sea, offering panoramic views and a touch of history. This former fishing village has evolved into a lively tourist spot, yet it retains its authentic character. The narrow streets are lined with quaint cafes, bustling markets, and friendly locals, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration and relaxation. Zingaro is only a 15 minute drive away.
Zingaro National Park, Sicily’s first nature reserve, is a breathtaking stretch of unspoiled coastline. Its rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation create a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s trails offer spectacular views and encounters with diverse flora and fauna. Pristine coves and ancient caves dot the landscape, inviting exploration. Zingaro’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty means you’ll find serene spots unmarred by modern development. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the natural splendor, Zingaro National Park provides a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
Sunset, ice cream, pastries and climbing La Rocca in Cefalù. This town is a gem on Sicily’s northern coast, enchants with its blend of history, architecture, and seaside charm. The town’s Norman Cathedral, adorned with exquisite Byzantine mosaics, stands as a testament to its rich past. Narrow, cobbled streets invite leisurely strolls, leading to quaint cafes and artisan shops. Its pristine beaches are great for watching the sunset, or if you prefer from the promenade.
Zingaro National Park, Sicily’s coastal treasure, boasts rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. It’s a haven for hikers, with scenic trails offering breathtaking sea views and encounters with diverse wildlife. Pristine coves and ancient caves await discovery, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure.
Sadly like Puglia I found Sicily suffers from litter everywhere. People through their stuff on the beach, out the window driving and I find it truly awful.
Tips and Tricks
Food
You’ll generally eat well in Sicily. If a place looks inviting, just sit down and enjoy.
A dish I discovered and had often, are Involtini. Involtini refer to delicious, rolled-up dishes often filled with savory ingredients. One popular version is Involtini di Pesce Spada (Swordfish Rolls), where thin slices of swordfish are stuffed with breadcrumbs, garlic, pine nuts, raisins, and cheese, then grilled to perfection. They’re a delightful blend of flavors reflecting Sicilian culinary traditions.
Here are my favourite food spots from this trip:
Agrigento: Restaurant Sal8 offers an elevated dining experience with a great selection of fish and game. Don’t miss the incredible ice cream at Sapore di Sale Gelateria.
Cefalù: L’Angolo delle Dolcezze is perfect for pastries; they’re small, so you can try several varieties at once. Cefalù also boasts a large supermarket with a fantastic deli counter called Gourmet Decò Cefalù. The hot counter offers restaurant-quality meals; we enjoyed a delicious meal on our terrace.
Castellammare del Golfo: I loved TRATTORIA LE 2 TERRE for its simplicity. Follow the sea from the old town to find tiny pop-up places serving cocktails as you watch the sunset. We were recommended a fish place in the harbor but ran out of time to visit.
Catania has many places, especially around the fish market. It is very busy. Away from there I found Be Quiet was good for lunch. It is in a side street, easy to miss. For a more rustic experience that is easy on the wallet I found L’Oste Pazzo a good choice.
