Sicilian highlights

Day 1: arrival in Palermo

Upon arrival at Palermo Airport, our professional driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure—take time to relax, explore the city at your own pace, or sample authentic Sicilian cuisine. Enjoy your first dinner and overnight stay in Palermo.

Day 2: exploring Palermo and Monreale

Duomo of Monreale

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Palermo, or explore independently with our recommendations.

Visit the iconic Quattro Canti, an architectural masterpiece where the city’s two main streets intersect. Discover the Pretoria Fountain, often called the “Fountain of Shame,” and the magnificent Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to the Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel, adorned with stunning mosaics that reflect Sicily’s Arab-Norman artistic legacy.

In the afternoon, we will drive to Monreale, home to one of the most breathtaking cathedrals in Italy, renowned for its Arab-Norman mosaics. Later, enjoy free time for shopping or an optional visit to the Catacombs of Palermo.

Alternatively, take a scenic drive to Mount Pellegrino and Mondello Beach, a Caribbean-like paradise on the Sicilian coast. Return to Palermo for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Segesta, Erice, and the salt pans of Trapani

A mill and Erice in the background

Start your day with a journey to Segesta, where you will explore the ancient Doric Temple, a remarkably well-preserved structure dating back to 430 BC.

After a break for lunch, continue to the medieval town of Erice, a picturesque hilltop village with cobbled streets, breathtaking views, and a visit to the Castle of Venus. This Norman fortress sits atop ancient ruins once dedicated to the goddess Venus.

Next, enjoy a tasting of Erice’s famous marzipan pastries, then drive to the Salt Way Road of Trapani. This stunning coastal route is home to centuries-old salt flats, where you can witness the traditional method of sea salt harvesting.

The area is also a natural reserve, offering a haven for birdlife and picturesque sunsets over the sea.

Conclude the day with a return to Palermo for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Castelbuono and Cefalù

After breakfast, travel to Castelbuono, a charming medieval village nestled in the Madonie Mountains. Here, you can explore the Ventimiglia Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. Afterward, continue to Cefalù, a picturesque coastal town known for its sandy beaches and vibrant old town.

Take time to visit the Arab-Norman Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the historic medieval washhouse, where locals once laundered clothes using fresh spring water. Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant before returning to Palermo for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Corleone and Ficuzza nature reserve

Begin the day with a trip to Corleone, a rural town famous for its connection to Sicilian Mafia history. Stroll through the old town and learn about its fascinating past. Next, head to the Ficuzza Nature Reserve, a lush woodland retreat about 40 km from Palermo. Here, visit the Royal Hunting Lodge of Ferdinand III of Bourbon, a grand estate built in the 18th century.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature before returning to Palermo in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay in the city.

Day 6: Caccamo and its medieval castle

City of Caccamo

Depart for Caccamo, a medieval hilltop town known for its well-preserved 12th-century Norman Castle. Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the valley, this fortress offers spectacular panoramic views and a glimpse into Sicily’s feudal history.

After a guided tour of the castle, enjoy lunch in a local trattoria. In the afternoon, return to Palermo for a final evening at leisure, where you can explore more of the city or enjoy a farewell dinner in one of its traditional restaurants.

Day 7: departure from Palermo

After breakfast, we will provide a comfortable transfer to Palermo Airport, ensuring a seamless conclusion to your Sicilian highlights adventure.

Why choose this best Sicily tour?

• Expertly curated itinerary covering the most fascinating sites in West Sicily
• Comfortable transfers in luxury vehicles with experienced drivers
• Accommodation in hand-picked hotels for a relaxing stay
• Flexibility to explore on your own or with guided tours
• Authentic Sicilian cuisine experiences in charming locations

Book your Sicilian highlights tour today and immerse yourself in the wonders of West Sicily!