Experience the Best of Sicily on this Coastal Road Trip with Hertz
Sicily is unlike anywhere else in Italy, and the best way to experience it is from the open road. Starting and ending with a holiday in Catania, this circular route takes in ancient Greek temples, volcanic landscapes, hidden nature reserves and some of the most striking Sicily attractions the island has to offer. Use the Hertz Road Trip Planner to map out your journey for your Sicilian adventure.
SICILY ROAD TRIPS, COASTAL DRIVES AND ITALY TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Discover the finest Sicily attractions on a circular route from Catania, exploring ancient temples, volcanic scenery and stunning coastline with your favourite rental car
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A slice of Sicily
Catania - Catania
Explore Sicily’s spectacular coastline in style. Drive through stunning natural landscapes, look out over crystal clear waters and stop off at beautiful beaches, before sampling some delicious culinary delights further inland. Discover the island’s ancient civilisations, marvel at audacious classical architecture, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of a truly unique location. Make a lifetime’s worth of memories on this epic road trip through Sicily.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 1: Catania Cathedral 1/14
Within the ancient port city of Catania on Sicily’s east coast, the stunning, richly-decorated Catania Cathedral draws admirers from all over the world. While construction began in 1094, its glorious facade has been given many uplifts along the way. Bustling Piazza del Duomo, also home to the whimsical Fontana dell'Elefante statue, is brimming with life and boasts a wide variety of treats. Stop off for an authentic coffee, a bite to eat, and to people-watch in this remarkable town square.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 2: Aci Trezza 2/14
A summertime favourite for Italian holidaymakers, Aci Trezza is a friendly seaside town with crystal clear waters, beautiful fresh food and famous ties to a literary classic. Its mythical origins are explored in Homer’s Odyssey, with the mysterious Cyclops Islands situated just off the Sicilian coastline. These volcanic stacks formed from the sea thousands of years ago while, in the background, iconic Mount Etna looms large over the town. Aci Trezza’s imposing Norman castle is only accessible by stone bridge – pay a visit to learn more about the local history.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 3: Mount Etna 3/14
Europe’s tallest volcano is still one of the most active in the world, with eruptions taking place every couple of years. Drive to the mountain station, Rifugio Sapienza, then hike your way to Crateri Silvestri – one of the extinct craters of the volcano – to see the incredible lunar-style landscape of black sand and lava. Or, if you’d prefer, grab a seat on the cableway and enjoy spectacular views as you journey up this sensational landscape.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 4: Teatro Antico di Taormina 4/14
Taormina was founded in the 4thcentury BC and enjoyed great prosperity under Greek and Roman rule. Perched spectacularly on the side of a mountain, this town is a popular destination for many a summer holiday in Sicily. Known down the years as a hangout for the rich and famous, from Oscar Wilde to Elizabeth Taylor, it’s perhaps best-known for the Teatro Antico di Taormina. This Greek theatre is not only a stunning snapshot of ancient history but is also still in use today, hosting some of the biggest names in modern music, opera and theatre.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 5: Piazza Garibaldi 5/14
Piazza Garibaldi in the bustling, historic city of Caltanissetta provides a feast of sights, sounds and culture on your way to Palermo. A beautiful fountain takes pride of place here between two stunning churches. The Cathedral of Santa Maria features frescoes by 18th century Flemish artist Guglielmo Borremans, while the Church of San Sebastiano boasts beautiful architecture, sculptures and design.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 6: Palermo Cathedral 6/14
Even in a city famed for its architectural attractions, Palermo Cathedral in the heart of Sicily’s capital is a truly remarkable structure to explore. Said to have been constructed on the site of a great mosque and shaped over the years by numerous cultures and conquering empires, look out for the Gothic gargoyles and the two towers situated at the front in a Norman-Arab style. Byzantine and Baroque elements can also be spotted in the intricate design, coming together to create something quite magnificent.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 7: Zingaro Nature Reserve 7/14
With its paradise of sands, spectacular cliffs and abundant nature, Sicily’s first ever nature reserve makes for a truly serene experience. Open since 1981, this stunning location looks out over the azure Mediterranean waters and features a number of great spots to hike and swim. Walk along the picturesque coastline, discovering idyllic small beaches along the way. Pack a picnic and a snorkel mask to keep you entertained for a day on the soft sand or head further inland to explore the lush, green forest via winding trails.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 8: Valley of the Temples 8/14
Experience the majesty of Ancient Greek civilization up close at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. The well-preserved structures in this vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to the 5th century BC, are true archaeological wonders. Take a picture with the fallen bronze statue, discover sacred tombs, and look out for the famed Temple of Hercules. When you’ve finished exploring the site, pay a visit to the local Archaeological Museum to admire ancient Greek and Roman artefacts that have been uncovered in the surrounding lands. One of the true wonders of Sicily.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 9: Duomo di San Giorgio 9/14
Sitting atop a towering hill, Ragusa is a spectacular Sicilian city with a charming Old Town filled to the brim with Baroque features. The Church of San Giorgio – a stunning sight from the Piazza below – has stood proud since the 1700s, when it was commissioned in the wake of a devastating earthquake. Enter through the ornate doorway to see the beautiful, curved ceiling and a chapel adorned with 18th-century paintings, decorative carvings and sculptures. Afterwards, you can stroll through the surrounding streets with their sun-kissed squares and gelato stalls, or visit the Giardino Ibleo public park for churches, fountains and sweeping views.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 10: Vendicari Reserve 10/14
Soak up the sun in Vendicari Nature Reserve while discovering some of the island’s most beautiful scenery. This coastal area is a migratory hotspot for many birds, welcoming feathered friends in all shapes and sizes. See if you can spot the rare White Stork or a flamboyance of pink flamingos. If you prefer to get in the water, pull on your snorkel and dive in. Calamosche Beach is considered one of Sicily’s best spots to explore the underwater world.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 11: Noto Cathedral 11/14
Originally built in the 1700s, Noto Cathedral required major construction after the earthquake of 1990. Thankfully, it was restored to its former glory in 2007 and since then has attracted visitors from all over the world. Something of a crowning jewel in the UNESCO-protected city of Noto, it’s an exceptional example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. Time your trip for the third weekend in May to enjoy Infiorata, the annual floral event that fills the city with vibrant colours and delicate fragrances.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 12: Ortigia 12/14
Drive across the Ponte Santa Lucia bridge, briefly leaving the main landmass of Sicily behind, and fall in love with the gorgeous island of Ortigia. While small in size, this compact getaway offers much to see, including the temples of Athena and Apollo – built during Ancient times. The town centre is filled with stunning buildings and a cathedral built on the remains of a Greek temple. Find your way to Piazza Archimede to witness the majestic Fountain of Diana, complete with stallions, mermaids and fantastical creatures.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 13: Archaeological Park Neapolis 13/14
From Roman ruins and paintings to carved white marble, another feast of Ancient artefacts awaits you here. The Teatro Greco – Greek theatre – is perhaps the most well-preserved and interesting relic in this historic reserve. Take a seat in the curved, stone stands and imagine the epic performances that once took place on the central stage. You’ll also find a smaller Roman amphitheatre in the surrounding area and a cave with incredible acoustics – inside, sounds are amplified by up to 16 times.
A slice of Sicily
Stop 14: Benedictine Monastery 14/14
Complete your Sicily road trip back in the city of Catania, with a visit to the grand Benedictine Monastery – one of the largest of its kind in Europe. Founded in 1558 by Cassino monks, this structure has been rebuilt many times over the years, having been ravaged by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. A variety of guided tours are available, including scenic walks. Alternatively, try a theatrical experience with performing actors drumming up excitement as you explore the sprawling structure. If you’re travelling with children, there’s a schedule of fun activities.
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