7-Night Sicily Road Trip Itinerary: The Ultimate Sicily by Car Guide
If you're planning a Sicily road trip, this 7-night Sicily itinerary covers some of the island's most breathtaking coastal towns, historic cities, and unforgettable hotels.
From Scopello's dramatic coastline to the ancient Valley of the Temples and the Baroque beauty of Ragusa, this route is ideal for travelers who want to see Sicily at a relaxed, immersive pace. Starting and ending in Palermo, this Sicily by car itinerary balances drive times, sightseeing, beach days, and truly special stays.
Jump to:
Day 1: Palermo Airport → Scopello
Drive time: ~45 minutes
Pick up your rental car at Palermo Airport (PMO) and begin your Sicily road trip heading west toward Scopello - a charming coastal village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
CHECK IN: Tonnara di Scopello (1 NIGHT)
This is not just a hotel - it's an experience. Set inside a restored 13th-century tuna fishery, Tonnara di Scopello sits directly on the water with exclusive access to one of the most photographed coves in Sicily. Rooms are simple, elegant, and historic, with stone walls, tiled floors, and views over the sea or inner courtyard.
Why stay here:
- Private access to the iconic Faraglioni cove (after day visitors leave)
- Historic charm you won't find anywhere else
- Peaceful, romantic atmosphere at sunrise and sunset
- On-site beach club with loungers and umbrellas
Insider Tip: Stay overnight so you can swim here early in the morning or at golden hour - daytime crowds disappear after closing time.
Spend the day swimming in the sea and soaking up the sun. A night stroll Scopello's small piazza and enjoying a relaxed dinner nearby.
Day 2: Scopello → San Vito Lo Capo → Trapani
Drive time: ~1.5 hours total
After breakfast, check out of Tonnara di Scopello and drive north toward San Vito Lo Capo, home to one of Sicily's best beaches. Known for soft white sand and turquoise water, it's the perfect place to slow down.
Relax on the beach, which feels Caribbean-like - powdery white sand and turquoise water framed by mountains. Have a late lunch and make sure to order Cous cous alla Trapanese, a local specialty influenced by North African cuisine. Fun fact: San Vito Lo Capo is sometimes referred to as the "Cous Cous Capital of the World."
After lunch, continue on to Trapani, a historic port city known for its relaxed rhythm and walkable old town.
Check-In: Room of Andrea (2 Nights)
Room of Andrea is a stylish boutique hotel tucked inside Trapani's historic center, offering the perfect blend of modern comfort and Sicilian charm. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the hotel features spacious, contemporary rooms with high ceilings, elegant finishes, and thoughtful design details that feel calm and refined. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Trapani on foot, from the old town's cobblestone streets and Baroque churches to the waterfront promenade and ferry port for day trips to Favignana.
Why stay here:
- Spacious, modern rooms with high ceilings
- Elegant design that blends contemporary comfort with historic architecture
- Excellent location for walking everywhere
- Personalized service and calm atmosphere
- Rooftop plunge pool with panoramic views
Day 3: Explore Trapani
Trapani, a coastal gem in western Sicily, is a captivating destination of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its charming medieval streets and bustling fish markets to the stunning sunsets over the salt pans and nearby Egadi Islands, Trapani offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Must-See Highlights:
- Historic Sites: Explore Trapani's old town, the Torre di Ligny, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo to step back into the city's rich past. Don't miss the nearby ancient temples in Segesta.
- Salt Pans & Nature: Visit the famous Trapani salt pans and windmills, especially at sunset for stunning views. Birdwatchers can spot flamingos and other wildlife in the surrounding nature reserves.
- Harbor & Coastal Walks: Stroll along Trapani's picturesque waterfront, watch local fishermen at work, or hop on a ferry to the Egadi Islands for pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
- Hidden Neighborhoods: Wander Trapani's winding alleys, stop at traditional bakeries for pastries like cannoli or cassata, and enjoy the city's laid-back Sicilian charm away from the main streets.
- Villa & Garden Visits: Discover nearby historic villas, such as Villa Margherita in Erice, and explore lush gardens or terraces overlooking the coast.
- Scenic Views: Take the cable car or drive up to Erice for panoramic views over Trapani, the salt pans, and the Egadi Islands.
- Culinary Experiences: Enjoy Sicilian specialties like fresh seafood, couscous alla trapanese, arancini, and granita from local artisanal shops. Cooking classes and food tours are also popular ways to dive into the region's culinary traditions.
- Walking & Tours: Join guided walking tours of the old town, historic churches, or nearby villages to uncover Trapani's history and local stories beyond the main sights.
- Day Trips: Venture to Erice, Marsala, or Segesta, or take a boat trip to Favignana and the other Egadi Islands for a mix of history, culture, and nature.
- Shopping: Browse local markets, such as Mercato del Pesce, for fresh seafood, handicrafts, ceramics, and souvenirs. Small boutiques in the old town offer handmade products and Sicilian specialties.
- Evening Experiences: Enjoy aperitivo by the harbor, dine at a seaside trattoria, or take a nighttime stroll through the illuminated streets of the old town for a magical Sicilian evening.
Check out my complete Trapani Travel Guide here.
Day 4: Trapani → Erice → Agrigento
Drive time: ~3.5 hours total
Check out of Room of Andrea and drive up the mountains to the town of Erice. Perched high above the western Sicilian coast, Erice is a beautifully preserved medieval hill town known for its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and sweeping views over Trapani and the sea. Often wrapped in mist, Erice feels timeless and atmospheric, with narrow lanes that invite slow wandering and quiet piazzas framed by ancient walls.
Highlights include the Norman castle, historic churches, and traditional pastry shops famous for almond sweets. Cooler temperatures and a peaceful pace make Erice a refreshing stop on a Sicily road trip, offering a glimpse into the island's medieval past and some of the most panoramic views in the region.
Insider Tip: Bring layers - Erice is often cooler and windier than the coast.
After spending a few hours in Erice, jump back in the car and head to Agrigento - about a 2.5 hour drive from Erice.
Check-In: Villa Athena (2 Nights)
Villa Athena is one of Sicily's most iconic hotels, uniquely located within the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Agrigento. Surrounded by ancient Greek ruins, the hotel offers an extraordinary sense of place, with elegant rooms and terraces overlooking the temples and countryside. Guests enjoy exclusive, private access to the archaeological park, allowing for early-morning or sunset visits when the light is at its most magical and crowds are minimal. With refined dining, a serene pool set among historic remains, and an unmatched location, Villa Athena transforms a cultural visit into a truly unforgettable stay in southern Sicily.
Why stay here:
- Direct, private access to the Valley of the Temples
- Elegant rooms with temple or garden views
- Peaceful pool surrounded by ancient ruins
- On-site restaurant with panoramic sunset views
- This hotel turns a sightseeing stop into a once-in-a-lifetime stay
Day 5: Valley of the Temples
Using Villa Athena's private access which lets you skip the line, spend the day exploring the Valley of the Temples.
The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is one of Sicily's most extraordinary archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing a remarkably well-preserved collection of ancient Greek temples set against rolling countryside and sea views. Dating back to the 5th century BC, the site is home to iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, along with the temples of Juno and Hercules.
Walking through the Valley of the Temples feels like stepping back in time, especially in the early morning or at sunset when golden light illuminates the ruins and crowds thin. Spanning a vast area, the site rewards slow exploration and offers a powerful glimpse into Sicily's ancient past and its importance in the Mediterranean world.
After spending time there, head back to the hotel and relax by the pool and then have dinner at the hotel's outdoor restaurant that overlooks the temples.
Day 6: Agrigento → Ragusa
Drive time: ~2.5 hours
Check out of Villa Athena and drive to Ragusa. Ragusa is one of Sicily's most enchanting Baroque towns, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake and later designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Divided into Ragusa Superiore and the historic Ragusa Ibla, the town is known for its dramatic staircases, golden limestone architecture, and sweeping views over the surrounding valley.
Check-In: Relais Antica Badia (2 nights)
Relais Antica Badia is an elegant boutique hotel set within a former convent overlooking Ragusa's historic center, blending Baroque architecture with refined modern comforts. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms with classic furnishings, soft neutral tones, and thoughtful details that reflect the building's historic character. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the terrace, a peaceful wellness and spa area, and a prime location within walking distance of Ragusa Ibla's main sights. With its tranquil ambiance and elevated service, Relais Antica Badia is an ideal base for travelers seeking a luxurious yet authentic stay in Ragusa.
Why stay here:
- Beautiful terrace views over Ragusa
- Classic, refined interiors
- Wellness area and spa
- Ideal location for exploring both Ragusa Superiore and Ibla
- Very convenient parking
After checking into the hotel, walk to Ragusa Ibla to explore the old town for the rest of the day. The town feels cinematic, with quiet piazzas, ornate churches, and candlelit trattorias tucked along winding streets. Slower and less crowded than many Sicilian cities, Ragusa offers an authentic, romantic atmosphere and is a highlight of southeastern Sicily.
Day 7: Marina di Ragusa Beach Day
Drive time: ~25 minutes each way
The next day, head to Marina di Ragusa, a relaxed seaside town just a short drive from Ragusa, offering one of the most enjoyable beach escapes in southeastern Sicily.
The beachfront promenade is lined with cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs, making it easy to spend a full day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood by the sea. Marina di Ragusa is ideal for travelers looking to slow down and soak up Sicily's coastal lifestyle after days of sightseeing.
Enjoy a relaxed beach day at Marina di Ragusa:
- Sandy beaches and clear water
- Beach clubs and seaside restaurants
- Perfect balance after days of sightseeing
Stay for the sunset, and then return to Ragusa for your final night and farewell dinner.
Day 8: Ragusa → Palermo Airport
Drive time: ~4 hours
Check out and drive back to Palermo Airport (PMO) for your departure, completing a full loop of western and southern Sicily.
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