Western Sicily Itinerary—The Perfect 14-Day Sicily Road Trip
Looking for the top picks for a western Sicily itinerary?
The island of Sicily feels a bit off the beaten path. More specifically, the western side of the island does. The eastern highlights are quite popular, making it a more appealing tourist destination for some.
As you may know, I like going to places that are a bit less touristy. So, hitting the sights on the western side of the island was calling me!
With highlights including stunning oceanside landscapes, exquisite beaches, stunning Greek ruins, and gorgeous small cities with historical buildings, what more could you possibly need?
In this post, I’ll share my recommendation for a two-week Sicily itinerary based on my trip. This includes the highlights, attractions, and additions you can add if you have more time.
As much as I love mainland Italy, there was something so ruggedly beautiful about Sicily. All I can say is now I’m smitten, and I think you will be, too, if you visit!
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How Many Days Do You Need to Explore Western Sicily?
To visit western Sicily and really get the most out of it, you need to plan for at least two weeks. This will provide you with a good amount of time to see the main sites and explore some of the back roads.
If you have less than 14 days in Sicily, you can still explore this incredible area. You’ll see the highlights—enough to want to go back again to see more (and more!)
Western Sicily Itinerary
Here is what I recommend for a 14-day Sicily itinerary, including recommendations for adjusting the trip based on the time you have.
- Revel in the beauty and complexity of Palermo.
- Visit the rocky northern coast in Castellamare del Golfo and Scopello.
- Bask in the glory of Ancient Greece at the Segesta ruins.
- Relax on the soothing beaches of Capo San Vito.
- Hike the trails on the cliffs overlooking the water in Zingaro Nature Reserve.
- Explore the streets of Trapani and learn about salt production.
- Try the wine in Marsala and explore the historic old town.
- Meander through history at the Selinunte Roman Ruins and the gorgeous beaches.
- Wander the whispers of the past in the Valley of the Temples.
Where to Stay for a Western Sicily Road Trip
This itinerary assumes that you rent a car and minimizes the number of times you’ll move around. Because really—who wants to move every night when you’re traveling?
Here are the places to consider for hotel/apartment stays that will help you limit the number of times you move between accommodations.
- Castellamare del Golfo—3 nights (alternative: Scopello)
- Marsala—3 nights (alternative: Trapani)
- Marinella—1 night
- Agrigento—2 nights
- Palermo—4 nights
From Castellamare, you can easily visit Scopello, Zingaro Nature Reserve, Segesta, and Capo San Vito. If you want to stay put and explore further, Erice, Trapani, and even Marsala are within reach for day trips. Though, I’d recommend another stop in Marsala or Trapani to reduce your driving.
We opted to stay in Marsala instead of Trapani, and we were so glad we did! It’s such a gorgeous small city, and we really enjoyed the slower pace and fewer crowds.
Where to Start and End Your Western Sicily Itinerary
The best spot for starting and ending your trip to western Sicily is Palermo. It’s the largest airport on the western side of the island.
The airport is close to an hour west of the city. So, you have the option to start in Palermo. Or, you can do what we did and rent a car to drive around the island, then end up in Palermo.
Either way, Palermo is your best bet. You can fly into Catania and take a train to Palermo, but it’s not worth doing that unless the flight is much cheaper.
Western Sicily Road Trip Stops
Here are the top places to see on a western Sicily road trip. The list includes some of the highlights of each area so you know what to expect when you go.
I’ll also include some nearby opportunities if you have the time. You can either add these to your trip, or you can substitute them if there’s something listed that you’re less interested in.
Either way, this road trip is a starting point for you. Make it your own by including what you want to see and do. This list includes some of the top spots and some back-road and off-the-beaten-path places.
1. Palermo
Whether you start or end your trip in Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, you won’t want to miss it. Adding a few day trips, you could easily spend a week or more in Palermo. It’s a great home base for traveling and day trips around the island, and you’ll find many tours to choose from.
This city is just incredible, and the historic city center is really the place to be. You’ll find a main pedestrian street (mostly pedestrian, anyway!) with lots of incredible shops and restaurants.
There are incredible historic churches and buildings, incredible architecture, fountains, and more. You could spend days just wandering around, enjoying the sites, and learning about the history and culture.
Highlights of Palermo:
- Wonder at the Norman Castle and the UNESCO Palatine Chapel.
- Learn about the history of the mafia and what you can do about it.
- Wander around the historic area to see sights like Quattro Canti.
- Tour the Palazzo Conte Federico with a real count!
- Visit historic sights like Teatro Massimo and the Fountain of the Shame.
- Don’t miss the churches, like Palermo Cathedral, Martorana Church, and Casa Professa.
2. Castellamare del Golfo
Not only is Castellamare a perfect spot to explore the northwestern areas of Sicily, but it’s a great spot to see in its own right. Consider it for your home base for a few days to explore the region.
The marina is picturesque and beautiful, and it’s the perfect spot for fresh seafood. It’s lined with restaurants serving the fresh catch of the day.
The water is the most perfect shade of turquoise, which you can enjoy at the marina or from the Belvedere viewpoint overlooking it. Many of the attractions are close to the water.
Highlights of Castellamare del Golfo:
- Take in the beauty of the marina and enjoy any of the many restaurants for fresh fish.
- Enjoy the incredible view from the Belvedere viewpoint.
- Visit the Arab-Norman Castle.
- Wander the maze of streets in the old town section behind the marina.
Marina
3. Scopello
This small town, or hamlet, is a must-see in northwestern Sicily. The center is very small, just a few streets, and it’s quaint and beautiful.
If you’re looking for a cute and romantic spot, this is the place to stay. Or come to see the incredible seaside views and wander the historic cobblestone streets.
Visiting Scopello is a nice change of pace from Palermo, as are Castellamare and the next few spots on this trip. Spend half a day here or more, depending on how much you’re enjoying it!
Highlights of Scopello:
- Enjoy the exquisitely charming old town center.
- Visit the marina at Tonnara di Scopello and take in the incredible views from above.
- Hike around the Zingaro Nature Reserve (this is located in Scopello, though I added it as a separate item as it’s a must-see in my book!)
Tonnara di Scopello
4. Zingaro Nature Reserve (Riserva Naturale Orientata Zingaro)
A must-see on the west side of Sicily is the Zingaro Nature Reserve. You can spend as little as a couple of hours walking along the main paths, taking in the views. It’s actually located in Scopello, though I’m adding it as a separate item to this list.
Or, get a map and choose some of the longer paths for gorgeous hikes. There are trails for all levels, short or long, up to 8 miles (13 km).
If you want a shorter trail that will be challenging, head down to one of the beaches in the park. Some are more rocky than sandy, but the views are gorgeous and worth the climb.
There are also two museums you can visit in the park. The Museum of Maritime Activities is located in an ancient tuna processing facility. Or, in the Museum of Peasant Civilization, you can learn about peasant life and the stages of grain processing in the area.
Highlights of Zingaro:
- Hike through the nature reserve, enjoying the ocean views.
- Climb down to one of the many beaches and get your heart pumping climbing back up!
- Visit the museums to learn more about the people and the history of the area.
Zingaro Park
5. Segesta
The Segesta Archaeological Park is another must-see in the area. It’s within a half hour of Castellammare.
It was an Ancient Greek city that thrived and fell, leaving behind ruins of an incredible temple, a large amphitheater, a castle, and more. Check out the cave dwellings and the impressive small museum.
It was established in 800 BC and peaked at around 500 BC. Then it got caught in the battles Sicily fought between Greece, Carthage, and Berbers.
When you visit, you get to walk through the extensive history of this once-thriving city.
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Highlights of Segesta:
- Don’t miss the Segesta Temple, the theater, and the Castle of Calato Barbaro.
- Explore the cave dwellings.
- Wander around the Museum of Segesta.
- Soak in the Segesta thermal springs.
6. Capo San Vito
For one of the most scenic and picturesque beaches in all of Sicily, check out Capo San Vito. This small town has a street lined with outdoor shops just waiting for you with the perfect souvenir as you head to the beach.
At the end of the main street, it opens up to a glorious soft sand beach. In the distance, there’s a mountain with a rounded beachfront leading to the marina.
The marina is beautiful, and you’ll find a small lighthouse in that area as well. If you tour the western part of Sicily, you’ll deserve a beach day. Capo San Vito is a great place to go.
Highlights of Capo San Vito:
- Visit the lighthouse.
- Enjoy the beautiful beach and relax while catching rays.
- Take a boat out in the water and enjoy the waves.
- Try a gelato con brioche. Yum!
7. Trapani
A charming city packed full of incredible churches, palazzos, and other historic buildings is Trapani. It’s the largest city on the western coast of Sicily and worth a visit (or stay, depending on your itinerary).
Wander the streets in the historic section and get lost in the beauty of it all. Head to the main street, Via Garibaldi, lined with restaurants, and take your pick!
From Trapani, you can visit the next small town on this list, Erice, by cable car. It’s an inexpensive and easy way to go while enjoying incredible views along the way.
One of the most popular things to do is visit the Salt Pans, located between Trapani and Marsala. There are more options for tours from Trapani, where you can learn about salt production through history and today and take in the gorgeous sunset views.
Highlights of Trapani:
- Enjoy the views from the Torre de Ligny (Ligny Tower), and check out the wooden ships.
- Wander around the fish market and the marina to see the fishermen bring in their daily catch.
- Explore the beautiful churches and palazzos—there are dozens all over the city.
- Shop on Via Garibaldi and grab a Jugo spritz!
- Don’t miss visiting the Salt Pans at sunset!
8. Erice
Erice is a medieval town perched on top of the western Sicilian coast. It offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to wander the cobblestone alleyways for treasures.
You’ll find a small palace, a Norman castle (Castello di Venere), and many medieval churches. This perfectly preserved town will make you feel like you have stepped back hundreds of years.
It’s at a high elevation and often robed in a thick fog, known to the locals as Venus’ embrace. Don’t miss spending half a day or more wandering around this picturesque walled city.
Highlights of Erice:
- Climb the bell tower for picturesque views of the sea and Trapani.
- Visit the ancient Norman castle and Torretta Pepoli (meaning little tower) for some incredible views.
- Wander the cobbled streets, poking into shops and restaurants for treats.
- Explore the different churches and monasteries, learning about the history of this area.
9. Marsala
Marsala is a beautiful small city with a Baroque design that’s easy to navigate by foot. The historic center is stunning! Head through the main gate to Piazza del Republica. In one small area, you’ll find the city’s most exquisite churches.
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Porta Garibaldi is the main gate to the city, near what was once the water’s edge. Not far outside of it, you’ll see the Monument to the Thousand, a memorial to Garibaldi and the Thousand, who brought all of Italy together.
Grab an arancina at Panificio di Ragona and enjoy it as you wander. This small city has so many gorgeous areas to explore.
Highlights of Marsala:
- Sit on a bench in the Piazza della Repubblica and admire the Parrochia San Tomasso di Canterbury Chiesa Madre, Chiesa del Purgatorio, and Palazzo VII Aprile.
- Visit the Marsala Archaeological Museum to learn about the history of Marsala and its importance in Sicilian history.
- Taste the local wines at Donnafugata and Cantine Florio.
10. Selinunte
Selinunte Archaeological Park is the largest in all of Europe. This was another Greek city established in around 650 BC around the current village of Marinella di Selinunte.
This large city was caught up in the same fighting as Segesta. In fact, it often battled Segesta itself over land.
Like much of Sicily, Selinunte was conquered several times, first by Carthage and later by Rome.
You can wander in and through the ruins of this ancient city. There are five primary areas, including an area with several temples, one of which was partially recreated, called Temple E, or the Temple of Hera.
There is also a city or acropolis. Here, you can see the ruins of five temples, an old city wall, and ruins of where private homes were. There’s also an area on a hill with the ruins of a large sanctuary.
Selinunte is really interesting, especially when comparing the site to Segesta and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
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Highlights of Selinunte:
- East Hill, with the large temples E, F, and G, dedicated to Hera and Jupiter.
- Acropolis, with the ruins of many temples and the former city center.
- Gaggera Hill, with the ruins of the Sanctuary of Malophoros.
- Incredible ocean views and the seaside of Marinella.
11. Agrigento
The Valley of the Temples is THE reason to visit Agrigento. It is the remains of the Greek city-state of Akragas, including eight temples and other remains dedicated to the Greek gods.
Your best bet is to take a tour to learn about this interesting area and the structures you’ll visit. Many of them, like the Temple of Hera and Hercules, have been painstakingly partially reconstructed.
The Temple of Concordia is magnificent—not just as a stunning Greek Doric temple, but because it was never destroyed by earthquakes and wars ravaging it. When the Christians moved into the area, they converted it to a church, which held it together through time.
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There are so many interesting places in this park to visit, so plan at least an afternoon or more.
Highlights of Agrigento:
- Visit the main temples of the archaeological site, including the Temple of Hera, The Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Concordia.
- Walk along the fortification wall and learn how it has been used through time by the Greeks, Romans, and Christians.
- Wander through the winding streets of the historic old town of Agrigento.
Temple of Concordia and the Statue of Icarus
If You Have Extra Time on Your Western Sicily Trip
There is more to see in Western Sicily, so you’ll have to prioritize. Here are a few things that are well worth adding a few days to your itinerary if you can.
Otherwise, you can swap out these for some of the places on the list if you’re more interested in them. You really can’t go wrong here, and it’s just a matter of your personal preference.
We did do some of these things listed, but not all of them. We considered them all and had to make some tough decisions, as you will.
Additional Areas to Visit if Time Allows
- Cefalu—A popular day trip from Palermo is the charming UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cefalu. This seaside town is charming, with its cobblestone streets, beach, and incredible ocean views. The centerpiece of Cefalu is the Cathedral of Cefalu, a must-see.
- Favignana—This island is off the coast of Trapani and is a popular day or overnight trip. It’s actually part of a grouping of three islands, and it’s the most popular for visiting.
- Marzana del Vallo—This small city is gorgeous and has some very historic Arabic-style buildings. We actually tried to stop here but drove around for around an hour unsuccessfully, looking for parking.
- Gibellina—This city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1958. The survivors rebuilt nearby, and an interesting memorial was built to remember the original city. It’s a quick drive-by, but you drive through some gorgeous winding areas to get there.
- Dei Turchi—The Stairs of the Turks is a striking white-rock cliff overlooking the ocean between Marinella (near where Selinunte is) and Agrigento (near the Valley of the Temples). It’s a fun stop and a gorgeous sight to see!
- Villa Romana del Casale—This spot is a little out of the way on the drive between Agrigento and Palermo. It is an incredible private home of a wealthy family with exquisite, well-preserved mosaic tiles on the floor.
Do I Need a Car for a Sicily Road Trip?
You can see most of western Sicily by train and bus, but it will take you longer to make your way around. It would be less expensive and an experience going by public transportation!
It’s not the easiest way to travel. And you’ll likely miss out on some of the highlights given the time it would take you to navigate public transportation.
You also have the option to see the highlights with group tours. You’d see the highlights of the places you want to go. And you’ll likely need to skip some great spots that aren’t often included on tours.
Though tours may be the easiest way, I do recommend renting a car if you’re up for the challenge of driving in Sicily. Driving gives you the most flexibility with your itinerary and helps you save time over using trains and buses.
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Is Sicily Safe?
Overall, Sicily is quite safe. Though it’s known for the mafia, and it is still prevalent in some areas, they usually won’t bother tourists if you don’t go looking for trouble.
Just like anywhere you go, it’s important to take some safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash expensive jewelry and items, and hold your belongings closely.
Petty theft is an issue in some areas, like Palermo. As long as you’re aware and cautious, taking the regular travel precautions you should wherever you travel, you should be fine.
When to Visit Sicily
For the best weather in Sicily, the most popular time to visit is April to October. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, and rainfall is lower.
However, if you want fewer crowds, November to March is the best time. It may not be beach weather, but you’ll dodge fewer people when you visit.
My friend and I went in early May, and the weather was perfect for traveling. It wasn’t beach weather for the most part, but we were able to explore to our heart’s content while barely breaking a sweat! And it only rained a couple of times during our stay.
West Sicily Vs. East Sicily—How to Choose
Eastern Sicily has become quite popular in recent years thanks to being highlighted on TV shows. Mount Etna, Taormina, Syracuse, and Ragusa are popular spots, and they can get quite busy with tourists.
If you’re looking for gorgeous cities, incredible ocean views, and ancient Greek temples, western Sicily is the place to be. It’s a bit less touristy but every bit as interesting and beautiful.
You can’t go wrong either way, but my choice was western Sicily!
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- Valley of the Temples, Sicily—All You Need to Know to Visit
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