6 Days in Sicily Italy Itinerary: Taormina – Palermo

Based on our trips to Sicily, this itinerary starts in Taormina and ends in Palermo helping you make the most of your week on the island whilst exploring two quite contrasting locations.

Our 6 Days in Sicily Italy Itinerary includes train rides across the island, hiking up Mount Etna Volcano, coastal days out and delicious local food and wine suggestions!  We also include how to plan our day trip to Cefalu.

Famous for cathedrals, vineyards,  island beaches, and stunning architecture, there’s so much to see.  Follow our itinerary for an easy do it yourself Sicily adventure, that is affordable and fun!

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Sicily Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of our 6 Days in Sicily itinerary. Go to Palermo first if flights suit this better.

Helpful Trip Planning Tools

Practical Tips (transport, weather, currency)

Skip this section if you want to straight to our itinerary detail. But if like us, you want to check a few essentials up front, here they are:

Weather: Check Average Weather for typical temperatures.

Getting Here: We flew into Catania Airport in the East and out of Palermo in the West as this worked out cheaper for our dates. Read more in Transfers section.

Train journeys : All train journeys we booked were with Omni which is a good option for European train bookings.

Currency: Sicily is part of Italy which is in the EU so uses the Euro currency.

Visas: No visa required for visits of up to 90 days for most passports, including U.S., EU, UK, and Canadian citizens.

Day to Day Itinerary

When you arrive at Catania airport, the distance to your first destination of Taormina is 69km. It’s an easy airport transfer by taxi taking about 50 minutes.

Alternatively,  Click here to book your ride when you book your hotel.

Taxi is quickest and easiest (we did this) but for more options on airport transfers from both airports, read the section at the end of the post.

Days 1 – 3 : Taormina

We spent 3 nights in Taormina which we feel is long enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed.  But it’s so pretty you might want to stay longer!

Arriving in Taormina is quite an adventure as the town is built on a sheer cliff.  Twisty roads lead to the historic town rewarding you with panoramic views of the coast and mighty Mount Etna.

5 Top Things to Do in Taormina

Here’s our 5 top things to do which you can spread out over the 3 days. The Mount Etna activity takes a full day and others half a day each.

1. Explore Taormina’s Quaint Streets (half day)

We always like to explore a new town when we arrive either on our own or with a free walking tour.

There are many squares (piazzas) along the thoroughfare which are usually lively and a good place for coffee. Stop in Piazzo Duomo (square) and visit the 13th century cathedral here. 

Wander around Taormina’s main 1km thoroughfare called Corso Umberto. Walking the full street will take you a while especially if you’re like us and want to browse in the boutique shops.

Piazza IX Aprite, is where you get the most amazing views of Mount Etna and out to sea. 

Look sideways as you walk the thoroughfare. There are many tiny alleyways beautifully decorated often leading to restaurants or cafes.   

You can also visit the public gardens of Taormina for more superb views and see some beautiful plants and flowers.  

2. Explore Roman Amphitheatre. (Half Day)

You’ll find this incredible Roman and Greek amphitheatre in the centre of Taormina.  It’s the second biggest theatre in Sicily and hugely popular. Don’t be put off thinking it’s just another ruin!

Once you see it, you’ll know exactly why this site, carved into the rock of the Sicilian hills is so unique. 

🔍 Click here to Book Tickets for Roman Amphitheatre

After you’ve paid your entrance ticket, you’re free to explore these spectacular ruins at your own pace. Book the audio guide as part of your ticket as it directs you around the area.

Sit in the horseshoe theatre and imagine Roman games and gladiatorial battles that would have taken place there,  The view over the sea and out to Etna is just stunning.

Concerts are performed in the arena regularly –  Bryan Adams and various Italian performers are playing in 2026. Check Taormina Teatro Site for dates and prices.

3. Take a Trip up to Castelmola (Half Day)

For truly incredible views head up to Castelmola, a tiny village just outside Taormina dramatically perched on top of a mountain.  We loved this place for its character.

You can walk here from Taormina but it’s quite a steep climb. Instead, catch the hourly bus from the main bus terminal. Or head to the bus stop outside the Mediterrane Hotel, if this is closer to you. 

The bus journey itself is an adventure as it climbs and turns.  Once there, visit the ruined castle, ancient church. Enjoy a drink in the village square cafes or stay longer for lunch. 

Castelmola is famous for its almond wine so don’t be surprised to be offered some as welcome drink in the local bar. There’s a couple of shops but it’s really the views that are worth the effort of coming here.

Rather than take the return bus, we walked back down to Taormina from Castelmola. It took us about 30 minutes on the designated pathway and was a nice stroll.

3. Relax on Isola Bella Beach ( Half Day)

Spend an afternoon doing nothing but relaxing!

Pretty Isola Bella beach can be reached from the heights of Taormina in a few minutes. Take the cable car just outside the main town arch on Via Pirandello. It’s signposted well and runs about every 15 minutes.

Other options for getting to the beach include taxi, bus or you can go on foot.  We walked and it was a lovely stroll (about 500 steps so harder going back up) but a good path. 

To find the path head for the viewing point of Isola Bella at Via Lower Pirandello.  Great spot for photos too!

Once you’re down on the beach, depending on tides you can walk straight across or use the stepping stones out to the island.  It’s now a nature reserve and for a small fee you can explore it.  

On the beach, there are parasols you can hire, some water sports and a selection of cafes.  The beach is pebbly but the water is beautiful. Crystal clear!

We spent a couple of hours here relaxing and had a light lunch at Pizzichella which was excellent.  Very popular restuarant so probably very busy in high season.  

Day 3 – Trek up Mount Etna

You are so close to Mount Etna in Taormina, so planning a day trip to visit it, is something we recommend. We loved our day out here.

There are a range of excursions running from Taormina to visit Mount Etna. Some just focus on Mount Etna alone which are shorter and others include add on visit to vineyards and gorges.

🔍 Click here to book Mount Etna Tour

You can explore lower slopes of Etna and some viewpoints on your own. However, to reach higher elevations and understand more about geology and Etna’s history, it really is best to book a tour with an experienced guide.

We chose a full day trip as we wanted to experience as much as possible of the area.

During the first part of the day, we explored an underground lava cave and hiked for about 2 hours around extinct craters at 1800 m.  We enjoyed a fabulous Sicilian lunch in an authentic winery tasting local wines. 

Lastly, we finished the day off at Alcantara Gorge, a canyon with wonderful rock formations. Just needed the water to be a little warmer to swim here in April, but what a wonderful place.

If your time is limited, then book a shorter trip to Mount Etna only.

🔍 Click here to book a shorter Mount Etna Tour

Where to Stay In Taormina

Our picks are based on location, safe links to transport, and overall value for money.

Day 4: Train From Taormina to Palermo

It’s time to move onto another part of Sicily today and head to Palermo. Spend the morning in Taormina if there are still things you want to do, otherwise, head to the train station.

The station here is called Taormina Giardini Naxos and it’s 10 minutes by taxi from the main town. 

Trains are brilliant in Italy. This service to Palermo originates from Syracuse in the southand runs regularly. It’s about a 4 hour train journey from Taormina.

🔍 Click Here to Book your Train Tickets

The route takes you up to Messina where you change trains and connect onto Palermo. It’s a scenic ride which hugs the coastline.

Day 4 – Arriving in Palermo (late afternoon)

We spent 2days/3 nights in Palermo which was long enough to explore the capital city and take in a day trip to Cefalu.

Palermo is the 5th biggest city in Italy so after quaint Taormina, it can feel rather chaotic. However, don’t let that put you off because as a capital, it has some great sights to offer curious travellers.

After your train journey, head to your accommodation and enjoy dinner at one of the lovely pavement restaurants. Pick up a tourist map and familiarise yourself with your bearings in relation to the top attractions.

5 Top Things to Do in Palermo

We’ve listed 5 top things to do in and from Palermo which you can spread out over your time here.

Even if you have only one day to explore, these places are close together. The Cefalu trip will need a full day but the others can be incorporated into 1-2 days.

Day 5 – Explore Palermo

Today is a day to explore the capital city of Sicily. Palermo has several individual monuments that are included in the UNESCO World Heritage site list. See them by exploring the city independently or by booking a half day walking tour.

🔍 Click Here to Book a UNSECO Walking Tour of Palermo

1. Palermo Cathedral

If you want to explore independently, head first to Palermo Cathedral, right in the heart of the city. It is a Roman Catholic church and the first UNESCO site we refer to.

As an architectural complex, it has many different styles. This is the result of  a long history of additions, alterations and restorations by different influences namely Norman, Greek, Arabic, Gothic, Sicilian baroque, Catalan.  

🔍 Click Here to Book Cathedral & Rooftop Tour

Inside, you will find the tomb of Fredrick II who is considered one of the greatest emperors of the Middle Ages.  

You can book a full tour of the cathedral which includes audio and access to the rooftop. Choose this option as views over the city are incredible. 

2. Royal Palace of Palermo (Norman Palace)

Close to the cathedral, you’ll find a second UNESCO site, namely, The Palazzo dei Normanni. It is also referred to as the Norman Palace or Royal Palace of Palermo.

If you’re a history buff, note that it was the seat of the Kings of Sicily during the Norman domination ( hence its name).

🔍 Check Palace Tour Prices and Availability

Afterwards, it served as the main seat of power for the subsequent rulers of Sicily. Since 1946, it has been the seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly. 

This building is also the oldest royal residence in Europe.

Sadly, it was closed when we arrived on a Sunday  but is said to be the  most visited landmark in all of Palermo due to the palatine chapel housed inside.   Close to the Norman Church is San Giovanni recognised with the red domes.

3. Piazza Quattro Canti

After the Royal Palace, head to Quattro Canti, Officially known as Piazza Vigliena, it is a Baroque square in Palermo. Marking the epicentre of the old city, the junction is framed by a perfect circle of carved facades. It’s well marked on tourist maps.

Each facade lights up in turn throughout the course of the day, landing it the nickname Il Teatro del Sole (Theatre of the Sun). 

Musicians play on the four corners; horses and carts stand waiting to take tourists around the city. 

The facades are beautiful and as it’s so central return at different points in the day to see how each one lights up. We certainly did and ended up with some brilliant photos!

4. Markets – Vucciria, Ballaro and Capo

Palermo is widely known for its colourful fruit, vegetable and fish markets in the heart of the city. 

They’re called Vucciria, Ballarò and Capo and we visited all three.  It was quite an experience walking through these markets. 

Dishes were cooked in front of our eyes, reminding me of souk markets in Marrakesh.   They are incredibly lively and loud but great fun. As you arrive at each stall, you’ll find yourself being entertained by sellers all competing for a little business!  

Huge swordfish lie on slabs of ice. Rows of ripe fruits and vegetables are unbelievably colourful.   Fresh street food is being cooked on every corner so the aromas as you wander are wonderful!

Out of the three, I felt Ballarò was the biggest and most active.   Capo was smaller and calmer.  Vucciria didn’t have as much to offer but apparently it comes alive at night. I’d definitely head to Ballarò!

It’s worth mentioning the flea markets that are also on regularly. Just outside our hotel, there was the Kalsa one, held every Sunday.

Honestly, there was so much stuff there laid out on tables or on the pavement. I must admit, a lot looked like old junk.

Throw in some vinyl records, jewellery, bits of pottery and that’s quick a mix. Fun to wander around and you never know, you might just find something that’s worth a fortune!

5. Pretoria Piazza

Another beautiful place to explore is Piazza Pretoria. Look for Santa Caterina and Martorana churches.

You’ll also find a magnificent fountain here called Fontana Pretoria more commonly known as, ‘The Fountain of Shame’.   This seems inappropriately named for something so beautiful. 

However, here’s the story relating to that name!

Back in 1574, the naked statutes around the fountain, angered the devout Catholic Church and in particular a nun called Sister Mary. From the Santa Caterina monastery, she would shout out, “ How shameful; you sinners will burn in hell.“

 Apparently, her continuous rage led to the monument being known as Fontana Della Vergogna or fountain of shame.  The public however loved it and it has been a landmark in the city for over 450 years. 

Having explored Palermo during the day, relax and have dinner at one of the city’s restaurants. Taverna Dei Canti was one which we enjoyed right in the centre of the historic district.

Day 6 : Trip to Cefalu

With brilliant train connections out of Palermo, it’s easy to take a day trip from the city as part of your 6 Days in Sicily Itinerary.

🔍 Click Here to Book your Train Tickets

The seaside town of Cefalu was recommended to us and we were not disappointed.  Only an hour by train from Palermo yet feels like a world away from the city.

For mid season goers like us, swimming in the sea was out. Instead, we sipped our coffee in the square, admiring the enormous UNESCO Duomo Norman cathedral. It’s a popular place to sit and have snacks, lunch or dare I say, a glass of wine.  

The alleyways of Cefalu are simply wonderful.  Quaint upmarket  shops sell boutique clothes. There are stores displaying local food produce and pots line the sides of cobbled streets.  Some of these are so narrow, you wonder how on earth drivers make it down them. 

We enjoyed Cefalu so much, we stayed for drinks and dinner and were rewarded with spectacular sunset colours. 

If you have time, and come in summer, spend a couple of days here by the beach.  

Day 7 – Palermo

Depending upon your flight time home, spend your last day back in Palermo. Return to the markets, or do a little shopping if you have seen the main sights.

If you have time, why not take an Italian cooking class. Book a lunchtime one. Afterwards, enjoy eating your own pasta with a glass of wine before heading home!

🔍 Click Here to Book Italian Cooking Class

Don’t forget to book your return transfer to Palermo airport which by taxi is a journey time of around 50 minutes.

Where to Stay In Palermo

Our picks are based on location, safe links to transport, and overall value for money.

What To Do In Palermo At Night

Restaurants

Just a little word or two about eating and evening entertainment.

In Palermo, streets are lined with cafes, bars and restaurants.   We ate and drank well.  Let’s face it you’re not going to starve. 

Generally in the city there was a great vibe in the evening with people sitting on pavement edges, chatting, sharing their stories of the day.  

Sicily’s Glorious Food!

So what should you choose to eat that is typical of Sicily?

Well, Sicilians certainly know how to cook. Their food has its own distinctive flavours, often with Arabian influences, think spices, apricots, and of course plenty fresh fish!

There’s the expected pizzas and pastas.  Spaghetti Von Gole and bread dipped in oil.  Paninis with prosciutto washed down with local red wine. Cappuccino, expresó americano, coffee with peanut biscuits. 

Citrus fruits grow around the island, and their almond wine is often served as a desert wine.   Granita ( a bit like a sorbet) served in a glass is traditionally Sicilian. Local cakes including cream filled cannoli and ice-creams are hard to resist. 

Just as well we did lots of walking!!  

The Theatre in Palermo

If you like the arts, the theatre in Palermo is called Teatro Massimo and it’s the third largest in Europe.  Scenes from the godfather were filmed here and the incredible Pavarotti has sung here.

You can’t wander around the theatre independently. But you can take a guided tour to learn more so if you’re interested, find events and guided tours on Teatro Massimo website.

FAQs

Getting to Sicily and Airport Transfers

Here, we give you more details on getting to Sicily and transfers from both airports.

Skip this section if you already know how you are getting to Sicily and have sorted transfers out.

There are two main airports in Sicily. Palermo on the west coast and Catania (closest to Taormina) on the east. For both airports, it’s about a three-hour direct flight from London.

If you can’t fly directly, head to Rome or Milan and catch an onward connection. Try and get an early flight to give you the afternoon to explore your first city.

Already in Italy? Check Messina on our google map. It’s the hub for connections and it’s useful to note that the Messina Reggio Calabria ferry route connects Sicily with Italy. (only 3km away!)

Liberty Lines Fast Ferries operates the route with crossings up to 21 times each week. Sailing durations from around 30 minutes. 

It’s definitely an option, if you want to combine Sicily and Italy and are in that part of Italy already.

Catania Airport and Transfers

Taxis are really expensive in Sicily although we did find a reasonable deal to get to Taormina by booking ahead. Other transfer options include trains or bus.

Train

If you choose the train, it involves a change at Catania Central Station. You then need to take a second train to Taormina Gardenia Naxos.  From there it is about 20 euros by taxi to get up to the centre of the town.   

Bus

Direct Buses also run from the airport to Taormina and are excellent value at around €8 one way. Check the Etna Bus Timetable.  The journey time is about 90 mins. 

They drop you at the bus terminal which is very central. Factor in how far it is from there to your hotel as you may need to take a taxi to complete your journey.

Palermo Airport and Transfers

If you fly into or out of Palermo, the airport in Palermo is called Punta Raisi. Your quickest transfer will be by taxi and it takes around 50 minutes.

Trains to Palermo

It is both cheap and easy to catch a train to/from the airport. From the airport head to Central station or vice versa if it is your return. Once you are on the train, journey time is about 50 minutes.  

🔍 Click Here to Book Train Tickets to Airport

Other Italian Gems to Explore

We loved the combination of Taormina and Palermo. With a trip to Cefalu as well, we really experienced the diversity of this island.    

Other adventures in Italy we suggest includes another train trip. Read our Italy by Train over 14 days for insights and train tips for planning this relaxing vacation.

And, if the Tuscan Towns appeal, use our Pisa, Florence and Siena Italy 4 Day Itinerary full of practical tips and ideas of things to experience.