Scenic Sicily Self Drive
Scenic Sicily Self Drive
Scenic Sicily Self Drive
8 Days Starting in Catania, Italy and ending in Palermo, Italy
Visiting: Catania, Taormina, Ragusa, Agrigento, Palermo
Tour operator:
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Scenic Sicily Self Drive" tour and explore the enchanting island of Sicily at your own pace. Begin your journey in Catania, where you can visit the baroque Piazza del Duomo and the lively fish market. Marvel at the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna and the Craters of Silvestri. Discover the ancient Greco-Roman Theatre and Roman Thermal Baths in Taormina. Wander through the Segesta Archaeological Park and admire the well-preserved Doric temple. Experience the beauty of Agrigento, known for its Valley of Greek Temples. This self-drive tour includes 7 nights of accommodation, daily buffet breakfast, car rental with unlimited mileage, and all local taxes. Enjoy the freedom to explore Sicily's rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Catania Arrival (50 Km Drive ) (-/-/-)
Location: Catania
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Taormina Area
Welcome to Italy, upon arrival at Catania International Airport make your own way to the car rental office to pick up your vehicle and depart for Acireale and Mascali in Riviera Taormina. Acireale and Mascali are two neighboring towns located in the Catania province of Sicily, Italy. Both towns offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them attractive destinations for visitors exploring the eastern coast of Sicily known for beaches and local cuisine.
Overnight in Taormina Area
Day 2: Etna – Taormina (150 Km Drive) (B/-/-)
Location: Taormina
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Taormina Area
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today after breakfast, you will have the opportunity to explore Etna and Taormina. Drive to Mt. Etna, the highest peak of Sicily and the most active volcano in Europe. The territory surrounding the volcano constitutes the \"Park of Etna,\" one of the largest protected areas in Italy. You will be astonished by the great variety of vegetation and landscapes that you will encounter along the way before arriving at the \"Silvestri Craters\" (at about 1,900 meters). From this point onward, you will have the option to continue the excursion by jeep. We suggest making a stop at local beekeepers to taste quality honey, indulge in a wine tasting, and observe how it is produced.
In the afternoon, explore Taormina, situated on a plateau on the slopes of the steeply dropping Monte Tauro. It dominates the Ionian coast from Capo SantAndrea to Capo Taormina. You will have the opportunity to visit the Greek-Roman theatre, which is the second-largest classical theatre in Sicily.
Overnight in Taormina Area
Day 3: Catania – Ragusa/Syracuse (165 Km Drive) (B/-/-)
Location: Catania
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Ragusa/Syracuse
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, depart for Catania, a city lying on the slopes of Etna, rich in sumptuous and magnificent buildings. We suggest that you visit the typical fish market (closed on Sundays) and take a leisurely stroll around the city center with its historical and characteristic baroque buildings, which have been proclaimed, along with other towns in the Val di Noto, a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. After exploring the city proceed to Syracuse, one of the most intriguing sites on the island where you can visit the Archaeological Park famous for its Roman amphitheater, Greek theater and the Ear of Dionysus. Continue your visit by heading to the island of Ortigia, the oldest part of the city characterized by its narrow alleys, picturesque sea views and a wonderful square featuring a splendid cathedral. After enjoying your time in Syracuse and Ortigia, you continue your journey to Ragusa/Syracuse.
Overnight in Ragusa/Syracuse
Day 4: Ragusa - Modica - Noto (110 Km Drive) (B/-/-)
Location: Ragusa
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Ragusa/Syracuse
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning after breakfast, this day you can decide to visit Modica and Noto. Today you have the opportunity to discover the lesser-known parts of Sicily which are dominated by the sumptuous and majestic Baroque style of the buildings. These areas are characterized by numerous UNESCO sites and are also known for being featured in the television series \"Il Commissario Montalbano.\" Your visit starts in the historic center of the city of Ragusa known as \"Ibla\" which is adorned with numerous Baroque churches, palaces and characteristic domes that dominate the city's skyline. Ragusa has rightfully earned its place on the UNESCO list with 18 sites declared as World Heritage Sites. Next, you will continue to Modica, another UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its chocolate and stunning architecture. We recommend wandering through the alleys, always moving upwards. Once you reach the highest part of the hill you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the city. Continue to Noto, included by UNESCO in the list of World Heritage Sites in 2002. Noto is a captivating town with its own unique Baroque charm. After a day full of exploration you will return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight in Ragusa/Syracuse
Day 5: Agrigento (267 Km Drive) (B/-/-)
Location: Agrigento
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Palermo Area
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today after breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to Agrigento to discover the wonderful and well-known Valley of the Temples where you can admire the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Concordia one of the best-preserved Doric temples in the whole Greek world, the Temple of Hercules and the Temple of Castor and Pollux. Then, continue to Palermo where you will arrive in the late afternoon. Enjoy your day exploring the capital city of Sicily.
Overnight in Palermo area
Day 6: Palermo – Monreale (25 Km Drive) (B/-/-)
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Palermo Area
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast in the hotel. On this day, you can choose to visit Palermo & Monreale or stay on the beach in Mondello. We recommend starting your visit in this city that never ceases to amaze you, like an ancient treasure chest preserving priceless treasures, some of which have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin your walk on foot from the Cathedral, where the tombs of Emperor Frederick II and some Norman kings are kept. Head towards the Royal Palace, also known as Palazzo dei Normanni, which served as the seat of the Sicilian kings from the 11th to the 19th century. Inside, you can admire rooms in various styles and the Palatine Chapel, famous for its golden mosaics. Continue by crossing Corso Vittorio Emanuele until it meets Via Maqueda, where you can admire the \"Quattro Canti,\" an octagonal square with four beautiful seventeenth-century buildings at its corners, displaying convex facades. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the popular \"Il Capo\" market, resembling an Arab souk, where locals prefer to buy local food, offering a delightful mix of colors, flavors, and smells. Lastly, head to the Teatro Massimo. In the afternoon, proceed to Monreale, a village located 7 km away from Palermo. It is famous worldwide for its magnificent Cathedral in Arab-Norman style, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cathedral is renowned for its 3,500 square meters of polychrome mosaics on a golden background. Near the cathedral, you can explore the cloister, featuring 80 pairs of twin columns, each distinct from the others.
Overnight in Palermo area
Day 7: Segesta- San Vito Lo Capo – Scopello (130 Km Drive) (B/-/-)
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Palermo Area
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, today drive to the beautiful archaeological site of Segesta, one of the most stunning locations in Sicily. Your first stop will be at the Doric temple, a majestic structure with a commanding position that adds a sense of nobility to the surrounding landscape. Explore the site and take in the rich history and architectural beauty of this ancient temple. If you have some extra time and want to enjoy the beautiful Sicilian beaches, consider driving to either San Vito Lo Capo or Scopello. These coastal areas offer picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters. We highly recommend trying the local food specialty called \"Pani Cunsatu,\" a delicious dish that you can savor by the sea. After a relaxing time at the beach, continue your journey back to Palermo, the vibrant capital city of Sicily.
Overnight in Palermo area
Day 8: Palermo – Catania (200 Km) (B/-/-)
Location: Catania
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and departure to Catania International Airport. Drop your car at the car rental desk before you board your flight back home.
What's Included
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07 Nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar
Enjoy comfortable stays at superior hotels or similar accommodations for 7 nights on a twin-sharing basis.
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Daily buffet breakfast
Start each day with a delicious buffet breakfast included in your package.
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Car Rental pick-up and Drop-off (every day from 08:00 to 22:30)
Convenient car rental pick-up and drop-off services are available daily from 08:00 to 22:30.
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Unlimited Mileage and Gold Insurance
Drive without limits with unlimited mileage and comprehensive Gold Insurance coverage.
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All local applicable taxes
All local taxes applicable to your tour are included in the package.
What's Not Included
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Items of personal nature, tips, and gratuities
Expenses for personal items, tips, and gratuities are not included.
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Visa fees if applicable
Visa fees, if required, are not included in the package.
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International driving license (mandatory for North American travelers)
North American travelers must obtain an international driving license, which is not included.
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Fuel and car deposits (to be paid locally)
Fuel costs and car deposits must be paid locally and are not included.
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City taxes (must be paid on the spot)
City taxes are not included and must be paid on the spot.
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Items not mentioned as being included
Any items or services not explicitly mentioned as included are excluded from the package.
Mode of Transport
This tour includes car rental pick-up and drop-off every day from 08:00 to 22:30, with unlimited mileage and Gold Insurance, allowing you to explore Sicily at your own pace.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of vehicle will I be driving during the Scenic Sicily Self Drive tour?
You will be provided with a rental car that includes unlimited mileage and Gold Insurance. The car rental pick-up and drop-off are available every day from 08:00 to 22:30.
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Are there any specific documents required for North American travelers on this tour?
Yes, North American travelers are required to have an international driving license.
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What are some of the key historical sites I will visit during the tour?
You will visit several key historical sites including the Ancient Greco-Roman Theatre and Roman Thermal Baths of Taormina, the Segesta Archaeological Park with its well-preserved Doric temple, and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, which includes the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Castor and Pollux.
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What unique experiences can I expect on the tour?
You can expect unique experiences such as exploring the volcanic landscape and the Craters of Silvestri at Mount Etna, tasting local honey and wine from beekeepers near Etna, and visiting the lively fish market in Catania. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to explore the baroque architecture in towns like Ragusa, Modica, and Noto, and enjoy the beautiful beaches at San Vito Lo Capo or Scopello.
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What is the accommodation arrangement during the tour?
The tour includes 07 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?
Yes, additional costs not included in the tour package are items of personal nature, tips, and gratuities, visa fees if applicable, fuel and car deposits, city taxes, and any items not mentioned as being included.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes a daily buffet breakfast.
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What are some recommended activities in Palermo?
In Palermo, it is recommended to visit the Cathedral, the Royal Palace (Palazzo dei Normanni) with its Palatine Chapel, the Quattro Canti, the Il Capo market, and the Teatro Massimo. Additionally, you can visit Monreale to see its magnificent Cathedral and cloister.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
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If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
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Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
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Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.