Flavours of Sicily – 8-Day Food & Wine Self-Drive Tour
Discover Sicily through its food and traditions on an 8-day self-drive from Palermo to Catania. Explore lively markets, Erice's pastries, Marsala wines and the distinctive flavours of Mount Etna.
Highlights
- Palermo's Street Food and Historic Markets
- Marsala Wines and Western Sicily's Culinary Traditions
- The Authentic Flavours of Mount Etna
Overview
Begin in Palermo, where colourful street markets, traditional bakeries and neighbourhood trattorias reveal the island's vibrant food culture. Wander through the historic markets of Ballarò and Capo, where specialities such as arancine, panelle and sfincione are an essential part of everyday Sicilian life.
Travel west towards Trapani and Erice, discovering the area's distinctive culinary traditions, from handmade couscous and local seafood dishes to the famous almond pastries of Erice. Continue through the picturesque salt pans and the vineyards surrounding Marsala, a region celebrated for its historic fortified wines and long-standing winemaking heritage.
As your journey continues across Sicily, explore the magnificent Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and discover the remarkable Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina, experiencing the island's extraordinary cultural heritage alongside its regional flavours.
In eastern Sicily, Mount Etna introduces another fascinating culinary landscape. Its volcanic soils support vineyards, orchards and traditional agricultural production, including distinctive wines, honey and other local specialities. Explore the volcano's dramatic scenery before discovering the elegant hilltop town of Taormina.
The journey also takes you to Syracuse and the island of Ortigia, where traditional markets, local seafood and regional ingredients reflect centuries of Mediterranean influences. Discover the Baroque elegance of Noto and its renowned pastry traditions before returning to Catania.
With the flexibility of a rental car and a carefully planned route connecting Sicily's most characteristic food and wine regions, this journey invites you to explore the island at your own pace, discovering the people, places and flavours that make Sicilian cuisine so distinctive.
Day by day
- 1
Day 1
Welcome to Palermo: Street Food and Historic Markets
Arrive at Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport and collect your rental car to begin your independent food and wine journey through Sicily.
Drive to your hotel in Palermo and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy your first introduction to the Sicilian capital, a city where centuries of Arab, Norman and Mediterranean influences have shaped a remarkable culinary heritage.
Explore the historic centre on foot, discovering its lively streets, magnificent squares and traditional food shops.
If time permits, visit one of Palermo's famous markets, such as Ballarò or Capo, where local vendors offer fresh produce and traditional street food.
Take the opportunity to sample some of the city's most celebrated specialities, including arancine, panelle and sfincione, or enjoy a traditional Sicilian dinner in a local trattoria.
Overnight in Palermo.PalermoPalermo - 2
Day 2
Monreale, Sferracavallo and Palermo: Seafood and Sicilian Traditions
After breakfast, drive to Monreale, overlooking the Conca d'Oro valley and Palermo.
Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Monreale, celebrated for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics and Arab-Norman architecture.
Continue towards Sferracavallo, a traditional fishing village on the coast west of Palermo, renowned for its seafood restaurants and maritime heritage.
Enjoy the opportunity to discover local seafood specialities, including freshly prepared fish dishes and traditional Sicilian recipes. Enjoy the seafood lunch included in the itinerary at a selected restaurant in Sferracavallo, according to the menu and beverage arrangements confirmed in the travel proposal.
After lunch, return to Palermo and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.
Explore the historic centre, discovering landmarks such as Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and the Teatro Massimo, or spend some time browsing traditional shops and local pastry establishments.
Depending on the season and your interests, you may alternatively enjoy a short visit to the seaside neighbourhood of Mondello.
Overnight in Palermo.PalermoBreakfast, LunchPalermo - 3
Day 3
Segesta, Erice and Trapani: Ancient Heritage and Traditional Pastries
After breakfast, leave Palermo and travel west towards Segesta, one of Sicily's most remarkable archaeological sites.
Discover the magnificent Doric temple surrounded by rolling countryside. If time permits, continue towards the ancient theatre, enjoying panoramic views over the surrounding landscape.
Later, drive to Erice, a beautiful medieval hilltop town overlooking Trapani, the coastline and the Egadi Islands.
Stroll through its narrow cobbled streets, admire the historic stone buildings and discover the town's famous pastry-making tradition.
Erice is particularly renowned for its almond sweets and traditional genovesi ericine, delicate pastries filled with custard or other sweet fillings.
Enjoy the opportunity to visit a local pastry shop and taste these specialities at your own pace.
Continue to Trapani, where you will spend the next two nights.
If time permits, enjoy an evening walk through the historic centre and along the waterfront. You may wish to sample traditional fish couscous, one of the most distinctive dishes of western Sicily.Segesta,Erice,TrapaniBreakfastTrapani - 4
Day 4
Mozia and Marsala: Phoenician History, Salt Pans and Wine
After breakfast, drive towards the Stagnone Lagoon near Marsala, an extraordinary coastal landscape characterised by salt pans, traditional windmills and shallow waters.
Reach one of the authorised embarkation points and take a short boat crossing to the island of Mozia, an important ancient Phoenician settlement.
Explore the archaeological remains and visit the Whitaker Museum, home to fascinating discoveries from the island's history, including the celebrated Youth of Mozia statue.
After returning to the mainland, continue towards Marsala, a town internationally renowned for its winemaking traditions.
Discover the historic centre or consider visiting a local winery to learn about Marsala wine production, traditional techniques and the distinctive characteristics of the region's vineyards.
The included winery visit and wine tasting are arranged in advance, subject to supplier confirmation. Travellers responsible for driving should refrain from consuming alcohol. Travellers responsible for driving should refrain from consuming alcohol.
On your return towards Trapani, take time to admire the salt-pan landscape and its traditional windmills, particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon. Overnight in Trapani.Mozia,Marsala,TrapaniBreakfastTrapani - 5
Day 5
Agrigento: Greek Temples and Sicilian Countryside
After breakfast, depart early from Trapani and travel towards Agrigento, crossing the varied agricultural landscapes of western and central Sicily.
The main highlight of the day is the magnificent Valley of the Temples, one of the Mediterranean's most important archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the ancient Greek temples independently, admiring the remarkably preserved Temple of Concordia and the monumental remains of the ancient city of Akragas.
Enjoy time to appreciate the surrounding landscape, with its olive groves, almond trees and beautiful views towards the Mediterranean.
After your visit, stop for lunch at a local restaurant or countryside establishment, with the opportunity to discover traditional Sicilian dishes and regional ingredients.
Continue your journey towards Catania, travelling across the interior of the island.
On arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening at leisure.
This is a longer driving day, and an early departure is recommended to allow sufficient time for the archaeological visit.
Overnight in Catania.AgrigentoBreakfastCatania - 6
Day 6
Mount Etna and Taormina: Volcanic Landscapes and Local Flavours
After breakfast, set off towards Mount Etna, one of Sicily's most extraordinary natural landmarks and an important agricultural and winemaking region.
Drive towards the southern slopes of the volcano, reaching the Rifugio Sapienza area.
Discover the fascinating volcanic landscape, with its ancient lava flows, dramatic craters and panoramic viewpoints. Enjoy an independent walk around the accessible Silvestri Craters, according to weather and local safety conditions.
Optional cable car excursions and guided high-altitude activities may be available locally, subject to operating conditions and additional charges.
The slopes of Mount Etna are also renowned for their distinctive agricultural products, including traditional honey, fruit and wines produced from vineyards growing in volcanic soils.
Take the opportunity to discover local products at a traditional shop or enjoy lunch at a countryside restaurant. A reserved food experience can be arranged separately if included in the final proposal.
In the afternoon, continue towards Taormina, one of Sicily's most beautiful historic towns.
Stroll along Corso Umberto, discover its elegant squares and enjoy the spectacular views of the Ionian coastline. If time permits, consider visiting the Ancient Theatre.
Return to Catania for the evening.
Overnight in Catania.Etna,TaorminaBreakfastCatania - 7
Day 7
Syracuse and Noto: Markets, Mediterranean Flavours and Baroque Heritage
After breakfast, drive south towards Syracuse, one of the most fascinating historic cities in the Mediterranean.
Begin your visit on the island of Ortigia, the atmospheric heart of the old city.
Explore the traditional food market, where seasonal vegetables, seafood, cheeses, olives and regional ingredients reflect the rich culinary culture of south-eastern Sicily.
Take time to browse the food stalls and local shops, perhaps stopping to sample regional specialities at your leisure.
Continue through Ortigia's historic streets, admiring the Temple of Apollo, Piazza Duomo, the magnificent Cathedral of Syracuse and the picturesque waterfront.
After lunch, continue to Noto, one of Sicily's most celebrated Baroque towns.
Enjoy a walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, admiring the elegant golden limestone façades, magnificent churches and noble palaces.
Noto is also known for its traditional pastry shops and almond-based specialities. Take time for a granita, an artisan pastry or another local treat before returning towards Catania.
Travellers wishing to enjoy a Sicilian cooking class in Syracuse may choose this as an alternative to the afternoon visit to Noto, subject to advance booking and additional arrangements.
Overnight in Catania.Siracusa,NotoBreakfastCatania - 8
Day 8
Departure from Catania
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and prepare for your departure.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to enjoy a final walk through Catania, visit a local café or purchase traditional Sicilian products to take home.
Drive independently to Catania Fontanarossa Airport and return your rental car according to the agreed rental conditions.
Allow sufficient time for the vehicle return procedure, airport check-in and departure formalities.
End of services.CataniaBreakfast
Accommodation
An elegant boutique hotel in Palermo's historic Kalsa district, offering comfortable accommodation and a panoramic breakfast terrace, within walking distance of the waterfront and historic attractions.
A traditional hotel near Trapani's historic centre and seafront, offering spacious accommodation and a convenient location for exploring Erice, Marsala and western Sicily.
A comfortable city hotel located close to Catania's historic centre, offering well-appointed rooms and a convenient base for discovering Mount Etna, Taormina and eastern Sicily.
Included
- 7 nights' accommodation in selected hotels or similar, with breakfast.
- 7 breakfasts at the accommodation.
- Rental car, Category A2 (Fiat 500 or similar), collected at Palermo Airport and returned at Catania Airport, with insurance coverage according to the confirmed rental agreement.
- 1 traditional seafood lunch at a selected restaurant in Sferracavallo on Day 2, including the menu and beverages specified in the confirmed arrangements.
- 1 organised winery visit and wine tasting in the Marsala area on Day 4, subject to advance reservation and supplier confirmation.
Not included
- Flights to and from Sicily.
- Lunches, except for the seafood lunch included in Sferracavallo.
- Tips and extras in general
- All dinners and beverages not specifically included in the confirmed arrangements.
- Entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites, churches, monuments and other attractions.
- Boat transfers to and from Mozia Island.
- Additional food tastings, cooking classes and culinary experiences not specifically listed under Services Included.
- Mount Etna cable car, 4x4 excursions, mountain guides and optional activities.
- Private guides, guided sightseeing and optional excursions.
- Fuel, motorway tolls and parking fees.
- Local tourist taxes, where applicable.
- Additional car rental charges, optional extras and services not covered by the confirmed rental agreement.
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal expenses, tips and gratuities.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under Services Included.
Entrance fees & tickets
- Cappella Palatina: € 19.00
- Segesta archeologica zona: € 17.00
- Mozia imbacardero and museum € 10.00
- Temple valley in Agrigento: € 17.00
- Roman Villa del Casale: € 17.00
- Ancient Greek Theater Taormina: 16.50
- Arcological zone Siracusa: € 16.50
- Cattedral Siracusa: € 3.00
Good to know
- Insider tip
- Palermo: Explore Ballarò or Capo market during the morning, when the food stalls are particularly lively. Try traditional arancine, panelle or sfincione, and discover the city's local pastry shops.
Sferracavallo: Take time to enjoy the fishing village's culinary traditions. Traditional seafood dishes are a highlight of this coastal area.
Erice: Visit a historic pastry shop and try the famous genovesi ericine, traditional pastries typically filled with custard.
Trapani: Look for traditional fish couscous, a distinctive speciality reflecting the area's Mediterranean culinary influences.
Marsala: Discover the town's historic wine heritage. If participating in a wine tasting, arrange for a driver who will not consume alcohol before continuing the journey.
Mount Etna: Look for local honey and traditional products from the volcanic region. Bring a warm layer even during summer.
Ortigia: Visit the traditional food market in the morning, explore the historic centre on foot and discover the island's seafood and regional culinary traditions.
Noto: Stop at a traditional pastry shop to enjoy almond-based specialities or a refreshing Sicilian granita. - Accessibility
- This independent self-drive itinerary involves walking through historic towns with cobbled streets, steps, slopes and uneven surfaces.
Some archaeological sites, particularly Segesta and the Valley of the Temples, require walking along exposed or irregular pathways.
Erice has narrow, sloping streets, while Mount Etna features rocky volcanic terrain and changing weather conditions.
The visit to Mozia involves a boat crossing and walking around an archaeological island. Accessibility may vary according to the boat operator and the areas visited.
The standard itinerary is not fully wheelchair accessible. Suitable accommodation, vehicle arrangements, boat access and accessible sightseeing options must be checked individually before booking. - What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes for historic towns, archaeological sites and cobbled streets.
Casual clothing, with a light jacket for cooler evenings.
A warm layer and windproof jacket for Mount Etna, where temperatures can be considerably lower than on the coast.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, a sun hat and a reusable water bottle.
A valid driving licence, passport or identity document and the documents required by the rental company.
An International Driving Permit or official Italian translation of your driving licence, where required.
A credit card in the main driver's name, subject to the rental company's conditions.
A smartphone with GPS navigation, offline maps and a car charger.
A small day bag, personal medication and any essential items for food allergies or dietary requirements. - Important information
- This is an independent self-drive holiday. A tour escort and guided sightseeing are not included unless expressly confirmed.
The rental car is collected at Palermo Airport and returned at Catania Airport. Vehicle category, insurance coverage, excess, deposit and one-way rental conditions are subject to confirmation.
Historic centres may have restricted traffic zones (ZTL) or pedestrian-only streets. Follow local road signs and the parking instructions provided by the accommodation.
Parking charges, fuel and motorway tolls are not included unless expressly stated.
Accommodation is planned for 7 nights with daily breakfast. The seafood lunch in Sferracavallo and the Marsala winery experience are subject to final supplier confirmation.
Other meals, additional tastings and optional culinary experiences are not included unless expressly stated in the confirmed proposal.
Dietary requirements, food allergies and intolerances must be communicated before booking. Alternative menus and allergen-free preparation cannot be guaranteed without supplier confirmation.
Wine tasting participants must comply with Italian drink-driving regulations. Drivers should not consume alcohol before resuming their journey.
The visit to Mozia requires a separate boat crossing from the Stagnone Lagoon. Boat schedules and services are subject to weather conditions.
Mount Etna visits are subject to weather, volcanic activity and local access restrictions. High-altitude excursions may require authorised guides.
Days 5 and 7 involve longer drives, and an early departure is recommended.
A Sicilian cooking class in Syracuse may be arranged as an optional alternative to the afternoon visit to Noto, subject to availability and additional charges.
Driving times may vary according to traffic, road conditions and sightseeing stops.
All accommodation, reserved culinary experiences and final travel arrangements are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.