In 2023, Sicily recorded a significant increase in tourist arrivals, with over 16 million visitors, of which about 8 million came from foreign countries.
International tourists contributed to this growth, with a considerable increase compared to previous years. The main countries of origin were France, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with the United States recording the highest increase (+53.6%).
This growing tourist flow confirms Sicily as one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe. With its historical, cultural, and natural attractions, the island offers unique opportunities to discover its millennial history, natural heritage, and local traditions. However, to experience an authentic and complete journey, a tailor-made itinerary is the ideal solution.
Why choose a tailor-made Tour in Sicily?
A tailor-made tour in Sicily offers numerous advantages over traditional tours. The main difference lies in flexibility. While group tours impose a fixed pace and rigid itineraries, with a personalised tour it is possible to adapt the journey to your own interests, choosing independently the destinations to visit and the time to spend at each location. Whether it is a journey to discover archaeological sites, gastronomic traditions, nature, or Sicilian beaches, the tailor-made tour allows you to focus on the aspects that interest you the most.
Local expert guides are another key element of a tailor-made tour. Knowing Sicily in depth, they know how to enrich every visit by sharing stories and anecdotes that would otherwise remain unknown. Moreover, these guides can customize the route, creating exclusive experiences, such as a private excursion, a wine tasting, or a meeting with a local producer.
“With a personalized tour, you can also explore places less frequented by mass tourism, offering a more intimate and authentic experience away from the crowds”, explain the experts from Sicily Private Tours. Additionally, thanks to the flexibility of the itinerary, you can easily modify stop timings, add activities, or even take a break for lunch at a typical restaurant, without the pressure of a standardized schedule.
What to see in Sicily in 7 days
Although there are many options, we have selected the main stops, allowing you to create a 7-Day Sicily Itinerary that lets you immerse yourself in the island’s culture and nature, exploring its most iconic wonders thoroughly and at a relaxed pace.
Palermo, the capital, is an ideal starting point. The city is a crossroads of cultures and traditions, visible in its monuments, markets, and historic neighbourhoods. Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, and the Church of Martorana narrate the city’s long history. The Ballarò and Vucciria markets are the vibrant heart of Palermo, where you can savour typical dishes and experience authentic Sicilian life.
Heading east, you reach Catania, a city overlooking the Ionian Sea and dominated by the imposing Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. The Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a perfect example of how Sicily has managed to maintain its traditions while looking to the future. Not far away, Taormina, with its Greco-Roman theater and sea views, is one of the island’s tourist gems.
The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Europe, with its well-preserved Doric temples dating back to the 5th century BC that tell the story of the greatness of Greek civilization in Sicily. Segesta and Selinunte, other important archaeological sites, preserve equally significant vestiges: the Segesta temple, in particular, stands out for its extraordinary integrity, while Selinunte is characterized by a vast excavation area that testifies to the influence of Greece in the region. The Val di Noto, declared a World Heritage site, is an example of Baroque architecture, with the eponymous city representing an urban and artistic masterpiece that reflects the post-1693 earthquake reconstruction period.
Etna Park allows you to traverse trails leading to active craters with spectacular views of the surrounding region. The variety of flora and fauna makes the experience even more interesting. Meanwhile, the Zingaro Nature Reserve stretches along the coast, offering trails and spectacular views of cliffs and crystal-clear sea.
One cannot forget Modica, located in the southeast of Sicily, a city famous for its artisanal chocolate, boasting a centuries-old tradition stemming from the influence of Spanish chocolatiers. Modica chocolate is unique for its cold processing, which preserves a granular texture, and is protected by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). Modica is also renowned for its Baroque historic center, part of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city, with its churches, palaces, and characteristic streets, is a perfect example of how history and tradition intertwine in Sicily.
Finally, the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a unique landscape with their islands to explore, including Lipari, Salina, and Stromboli, famous for its active volcano.
Why choose Trinakria Tours?
Choosing Trinakria Tours, a boutique tour operator managed by Sicilians, means opting for an authentic and personalized experience. Each itinerary is designed to reflect the true essence of Sicily, far from conventional tourist circuits. The local expert guides will lead you to discover the most significant places, enriching every stop with stories, traditions, and curiosities.
Trinakria Tours’ packages include accommodation and car rental, allowing you to explore the island with complete freedom. Each accommodation is carefully selected to ensure comfort and quality, so you can enjoy every moment of your trip without any worries.
