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Sicily’s Hidden Gems: The Best Day Trips from Palermo You Won’t Believe!

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One of the most tiring things about travelling can be packing up and moving from hotel to hotel. All this moving around can take away from finding relaxing moments each day and really embracing the destination & culture. That’s why when spending a month in Sicily I decided to stay in Palermo the whole time, and it was the best decision ever. From our base in Palermo, we explored so much of Sicily and this guide has the 19 best day trips from Palermo.

No doubt Sicily is a big island but basing yourself in the capital Palermo will allow you to take day trips to nearby towns, incredible beaches and some of the best-hidden gems in Sicily. All while really getting to know Palermo.  A city that has so much to offer and when it’s time to head home, you’ll leave feeling a little bit like a local Sicilian.

Best Way to Get Around Sicily

There are plenty of easy transport options for getting around Sicily. Most day trips from Palermo can be done by local bus, tourist shuttle or train. Then there are a few places a bit further away from Palermo when hiring your own car will be the best option.

Day Trips From Palermo by Bus

The public bus system in Palermo (also known as AMAT) is easy, cheap & regular, but just don’t be too surprised if the bus is ever late. 

Palermo’s AMAT system is perfect for getting to places like Mondello Beach, Monreale & Corleone. Anywhere much further than this, you’d have to look for another transport option.

The Moovit app was great for searching bus routes and timetables from Palermo. 

There are also a number of tourist shuttle buses that operate all over Sicily. These buses are very reliable, have regular schedules and are very reasonably priced.

Segesta Autolinee, SAIS Bus, AST (Azienda Siciliana Trasporti) and Autoservizi Russo were the companies we used for day trips from Palermo. The company you book with will depend on where you’re going as each company generally goes to different locations. And, if you visit the Palermo train station or the information centre in the historic centre, you’ll be able to see the bus schedule and prices.

Day Trips From Palermo by Train

The rail network in Sicily is great, and the train station in Palermo is only a short walk from the historic centre. I always found the trains to be very clean and on time. The main rail line runs from Palermo to Messina and then south to Catania. 

There are big sections of Sicily that aren’t easily accessible by train and sometimes the travel time on a shuttle bus was much quicker compared with a train.

Except for day trips from Palermo to Cefalu, the train was by far the best option.

Car Hire in Sicily (‘Sicily by Car’ Palermo)

Hiring a car in Sicily can be very convenient and also a bit of an adventure! 

The car hire company I found to be the best in Sicily was Sicily by Car and they have an office inside the arrivals terminal at Palermo Airport and also in the city centre.

If you are hiring a car during your stay and are flexible on the dates, they can offer a 25% discount if you book on the day. This happened to us and we ended up paying 192 euros for 2 days including insurance.

Parking in Palermo City can be a bit tricky. The streets get very busy (it’s insane how close cars were parking together) and a parking permit in the city centre is required if you’re parking before 8 pm. These cost 5 euros a day or 2.5 for a hybrid vehicle.

Parking Tips: Ask the staff at Sicily by Car if there are free spaces in their garage that you can use overnight.

Something else you should be aware of when hiring a car in Sicily. Technically in Europe, you need an international driving permit and without one you could be fined up to 1,600eu. But the staff at Sicily by Car said this isn’t really enforced in Sicily, (we didn’t get caught either).

Driving in Sicily

Driving in Sicily is a bit like the wild west, there seem to be no rules, just go for it and try not to crash! And, always assume people will pull out in front of you.

Along the freeways we were constantly being overtaken, one time there was even a car overtaking the car that was overtaking us!

Even as a passenger I never felt relaxed. There was just always so much going on I felt like I had to keep my eyes on everything too. Especially in Palermo, the roads can get confusing and navigating wasn’t as easy as just turning on the maps.

But saying that we survived and found it so much easier having a car for a couple of days, especially to reach places like Agrigento and Sciacca. Just don’t go into it thinking it’ll be a leisurely Sunday drive. If you’re by yourself, plan your route ahead of time.

Cathedral in Palermo, listing the best day trips from palermo
Day Trips From Palermo
Decorative plates on the wall in Sicily

19 of the Best Day Trips From Palermo

Monreale

Monreale is a perfect half-day trip from Palermo and the main reason for visiting is to see its magnificent Cathedral. It’s located 10 km inland from Palermo and from the edge of Monreale, there are beautiful views of Palermo and out to the ocean.

Inside the Monreale Cathedral (Cattedrale di Monreale) the walls and ceiling are covered in delicate pure gold mosaics, it’s hard to look away.

Entry to the cathedral is free and it’s asked that visitors dress modestly (shoulders & knees covered) otherwise entry may be denied.

The main square in front of the cathedral is also beautiful, with well-maintained gardens and a fountain. But if you plan on eating, just a couple of streets back you will find much cheaper eats. 

Another thing to admire in Monreale is the small ally ways, lined with colourful buildings & beautiful pottery.

Distance from Palermo: 10 km
Best transport option: Local AMAT bus, number 389. This option only cost 1.45 euros and takes less than 30 minutes. Although this route isn’t overly regular so check the bus times on Moovit to avoid long waits at the bus stop. 

Mondello

Although Palermo isn’t a beach city, I would still say it’s one of the best places to stay in Sicily for beaches. Why? Because Mondello Beach is an easy 25-minute bus ride from the city and it’s absolutely stunning. It was one of our favourite most regularly done day trips from Palermo.

During summer Mondello Beach does get very busy so I would recommend arriving early to get a decent spot on the sand. But even with all the people, this is still one of the prettiest places in Sicily.

The water is what makes this beach so good, clean, and crystal clear. If you paddle just a little bit offshore on a sunny day the water is bluer than the sky. 

Mondello town is pretty small but has all you need for a day trip. After being at the beach follow the coast around towards the Mondello Beach Pavilion and to the small group of shops. There you’ll find plenty of restaurant choices and delicious ice cream.

Distance from Palermo: 12 km
Best transport option: Local bus number 806 regularly departs from Palermo and a ticket that is valid for 90 minutes costs 1.40 euros.

Cefalù

Start your day early because you are going to want to make the most of the picturesque seaside town, especially in summer. 

Cefalù is worth visiting for its beach, seaside restaurants & bars, shopping, & Cathedral. Plus it features quite a lot in the TV series The White Lotus (even though the storyline wasn’t saying they were in Cefalù).

In the summer months by 9 am the beach will be full. Cefalù is definitely a town for tourists, it’s not only the more expensive restaurants but also the local markets set up at the beach.

The scenery in Cefalù is stunning, the town is set at the foot of a giant rock along the north coast of Sicily. Then the old streets, ancient buildings & its Norman Cathedral are the perfect places to explore after a morning at the beach.

Distance from Palermo: 65 km
Best transport option: The Trenitalia train leaves Palermo station and takes 45 minutes to reach Cefalù. There are 19 trains a day between Palermo & Cefalù, tickets can be purchased at the station for 6.20 euros.

Corleone

If you’ve come to Sicily with any kind of intrigue about the history of the Sicilian Mafia, then you need to visit the inland town of Corleone. And, it might just come with some surprises.

The best way to understand Corleones past and present is to get a guided tour. 

Get Your Guide gifted me Corleone: Beyond the Godfather Guided Walking Tour. 

With our knowledgeable local guide walking us along these streets, we could better imagine what the past was like for the locals and how hard life could be. 

Although Corleone doesn’t want to be known as this “badass” town with deep roots in the Sicilian Mafia. And, certainly doesn’t want people to think there is any truth to the “honourable mafia code” that is portrayed in films like the godfather. Visiting and becoming more educated on the whole situation, I believe is a good way for tourists to shake this stereotype.

The tour also included a visit to Laboratorio della Legalità. Which is a small museum filled with artwork. Many of these relate to past protests or created in loving memory of those who lost their lives. 

If you look beyond the past, today Corleone is a quiet Sicilian town, home to 100 churches and surrounded by rolling hills and thriving farmland.

Distance from Palermo: 64 km
Best transport option: Autolinee Gallo buses run twice a day from Palermo to Corleone and a return ticket cost 8.50 euros.

Delicate gold mosaic in the Monreale Cathedral
Monreale Cathedral
the clear blue water in Mondello Sicily. best day trips from Palermo
Mondello
The beautiful Cefalù Beach in Sicily. day trip from Palermo
Cefalù
get your guide walking tour in Corleone, sicily. Perfect day trips from Palermo
Corleone

Grotta Mangiapane 

When looking for day trips from Palermo that are off the traditional tourist trail, then Grotta Mangiapane is one of those must-see places in Sicily. 

Grotta Mangiapane is a small village, inhabited from 1819 until the mid-1900s. The main part of the village is built within the walls of a cave and apparently, they have left everything exactly the same as it once was.

The bedrooms, saloon, kitchen, art studio & pottering-making studio are all still intact.

Today it’s more of a museum, visitors are free to explore the area and many of the rooms can only be viewed from the doorway. Entry is free, they just ask for a donation as you leave.

While exploring this area it felt like we could have been in Mexico or the Wild West. The landscape was very dry, cactuses lined the path and the wooden farming equipment looked like it came from a film set.

The main part of the village in the cave is incredible, and one of the most unique places I visited in Sicily.

Grotta Mangiapane is a hidden gem in Sicily and as an added bonus, there’s a stunning beach only a 15-minute drive away.

Baia di Cornino

This beach was far less crowded than Mondello or Cefalù, with plenty of space to spread out. The first 50 meters of the water is a bit rocky, with lots of seaweed patches. But there was a floating walkway so all that could easily be avoided. Towards the end of the walkway, the pristine ocean will make you fall even more in love with the Sicilian coastline.

To make these ocean views even more beautiful, there are stunning mountains hugging the coastline on both sides.

Also, Baia di Cornino has two restaurants, I really enjoyed our light meal and drinks at Tribe Dynamic Bar.

Distance from Palermo: 94 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, there is free parking at Grotta Mangiapane and at the beach, there is a car park across the road that charges .30 cents an hour. Although the machine doesn’t give change so keep small coins handy.

San Vito Lo Capo

When searching for idyllic day trips from Palermo that offer an escape from the beaten tourist path, San Vito Lo Capo is another amazing option. This captivating town is nestled along Sicily’s picturesque coastline.

San Vito Lo Capo boasts a magnificent beach that stretches for 3 km, delighting visitors with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. As you take your first steps into the gentle waves, you’ll feel a sense of complete relaxation. There are many sun beds available for hire on the sand, but still, plenty of room has been left for other beachgoers.

The beach is famous for its natural beauty and has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status, a testament to its cleanliness and environmental preservation.

Aside from its breathtaking shoreline, San Vito Lo Capo offers a charming town centre filled with vibrant colours and a laid-back atmosphere. There is some really good shopping so take time to stroll through its narrow streets and explore these quaint shops. Also, plenty of cafes, and restaurants serving up delicious local delicacies.

Distance from Palermo: 109 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, there’s plenty of free street parking. Although, parking is timed, just leave a small note on your dash with the time you arrived – I love this honesty policy.

There is also, Autoservizi Russo offering a tourist shuttle between Palermo & San Vito Lo Capo for 9.40 euros one way.

Castellammare

Nestled on a picturesque hill, Castellammare is a charming town with insane views of the port & sparkling sea. You’ll find yourself strolling through its streets, where colourful buildings draped in bougainvillea set the scene for a relaxed coastal vibe that’s totally infectious.

Castellammare is a quieter town and not one you would need to spend the whole day at. It’s in the perfect location to stop by before or after visiting somewhere like San Vito Lo Capo, Scopello or Zingaro Nature Reserve. 

If it works with your plans I would recommend ending your day here before heading back to Palermo. The town often has a vibrant seaside market and plenty of dining options with ocean views.

Distance from Palermo: 66 km
Best transport option: Self-drive

Zingaro Nature Reserve

To step away from civilization and embrace Sicily’s picturesque coastline, you need to take a day trip from Palermo to Zingaro Nature Reserve. The protected, 7 km, coastal strip boasts rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and an abundance of native flora and fauna. As you hike along its well-marked trails, be prepared to be mesmerized by the unspoiled beauty of this pristine wilderness.

There are two entrances to Zingaro; the north entrance is 12 km from San Vito Lo Capo and the south entrance is only 1 km away from Scopello.

The entrance fee to Zingaro Nature Reserve is 5 euros and there isn’t any food or drink available inside. So pack what you’ll need for the day, remembering to take plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Distance from Palermo: 77 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, and start from the southern entrance near Scopello. There is also the option to book a tourist shuttle with Autoservizi Russo, going via Castellammare from Palermo. This transport option is more time-consuming though and if travelling in peak season you should pre-book these tickets on their website. 

Scopello

Don’t let the size of this tiny town give you the idea it isn’t worth visiting. Scopello is absolutely stunning, a hidden gem along Sicily’s breathtaking coastline. This charming seaside village is a must-visit destination that will steal your heart. With idyllic beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere, Scopello offers the perfect escape from everyday life.

Imagine lounging on soft sandy beaches, basking in the warm Mediterranean sun, and taking refreshing dips in crystal-clear turquoise waters. The most popular beach in Scopello is Tonnara di Scopello but this beach does come with a hefty price tag. During August entrance to Tonnara di Scopello is 15 euros per person (or 7 euros if you’re staying in town). I had read that during the quieter months, this beach only cost 4.5 euros to enter.

If you aren’t interested in paying this fee, there’s still the rest of Scopello’s mesmerizing coastline. With rugged cliffs and hidden coves, you’re invited to explore and find your own private paradise. We settled for the day at Cala Dell ‘Ovo and it was absolutely divine, I only wish we had brought along our snorkelling gear!

Before leaving Scopello, take some time to wander through the village’s narrow cobblestone streets and get some food in one of the laid-back cafes. 

Distance from Palermo: 76 km
Best transport option: Self-drive and there’s free parking near the village entrance. 

walking into Grotta Mangiapane cave, one of the best day trips from Palermo
Grotta Mangiapane
views of the ocean from Grotta Mangiapane village
legs in the clear ocean at Baia di Cornino beach
Baia di Cornino
main beach in San Vito Lo Capo Sicily, exploring on day trips from Palermo
San Vito Lo Capo
small town, nestled in the Sicilian hills. Day trips from Palermo
Castellammare
walking to the beach in Scopello, day trips from Palermo
Scopello

Trapani

Trapani is a charming Sicilian town with a rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food & locally made wine. Plus, it’s picturesque harbor and colorful streets are a delight to explore.

Trapani could be done as one of your day trips from Palermo, but I’ll admit we left our Palermo apartment and stayed 1 night in Trapani. This made more sense when we also wanted enough time to visit the nearby Egadi Islands and Erice (mentioned below).

The beaches surrounding Trapani aren’t as crowded compared with Mondello, and the water isn’t as picturesque. But this coastal town still has a charm of its own.

With its westerly location, Trapani offers some of the most beautiful sunsets in Sicily. Why not enjoy witnessing the sun setting over the ocean with some locally made wine from Tenute Adragna (and only 3 euros a glass).

Distance from Palermo: 107 km
Best transport option: Tourist shuttle with Segesta Autolinee for 15.10 euros return.

Egadi islands

Prepare to have your mind blown by the breathtaking Egadi Islands in Sicily. These hidden gems, not too far off the coast of Trapani, are a paradise of beauty and relaxation.

Imagine pristine beaches with turquoise waters that beg you to dive in and soak up the sun. The islands’ natural landscapes are a feast for the eyes, from rugged cliffs to lush greenery. Take leisurely walks along picturesque paths and discover hidden coves with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling.

At mid-day be sure to anchor at the port of Favignana to indulge in the best local food while savouring the laid-back island vibes. Whether you seek adventure or tranquillity, the Egadi Islands promise a memorable escape in a stunningly beautiful setting.

Distance from Palermo: 109 km
Best transport option: Book a day tour with Egadi Boating, this will ensure you get to all the best places in the Egadi Islands. Plus have the most relaxing and carefree day, especially because these trips take a maximum of 12 people. 

Erice

Erice is a captivating village, perched high on a hilltop, offering panoramic views that will take your breath away. Lose yourself in the medieval charm of its cobbled streets, visit historic churches, and indulge in the heavenly Sicilian Cannolis.

From the base of the 751m high mountain, you can get the cable car line up that will take you to the entrance of the village. The temperature at Erice is always much cooler, so even on a hot day take a light jacket as you might need it as you pass through the clouds. 

Entrance to the village is free and there’s the option to purchase a pass that will give you access to 6 of the village’s main attractions for 8€. Or, 10€ gives you access to the Royal Cathedral and the bell tower. 

Erice is a unique location that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Be mesmerized by the views of Trapani and the nearby salt flats. And, wondering how they were able to create such incredible structures so high up in the clouds. 

Distance from Palermo: 117 km
Best transport option: If visiting Erice on a day trip from Palermo, self-driving would be the best option as you wouldn’t need to go via Trapani. If visiting from Trapani get local bus 23 which stops along Via Giovanni Battista Fardella and then the Cable Car up the mountain for 6€ one way. Or you could also get the AST bus which stops along the same road in Trapani and costs 9.60€ return. The AST tickets can be purchased from the driver (cash only) and the bus stops at the village entrance. 

local wine at sunset in Trapani Sicily
Trapani
tiny village on the Egadi-islands in sicily
Egadi islands
ocean views from Erice in Sicily
Erice
views from Erice village in Sicily

Sicilia Outlet Village

Located in the heart of Sicily, the Sicilia Outlet Village is a shopping haven that promises discounts for fashion enthusiasts. This sprawling village showcases a wide array of renowned Italian and international brands, offering shoppers the opportunity to find their favourite designers at discounted prices. 

This elegant outdoor shopping mall has everything from designer clothes, bags, footwear & jewellery. Making it one of the best day trips from Palermo. 

If you need a break from shopping there are many onsite restaurants or cafes to savor delicious Italian cuisine. This vibrant shopping destination is one of the easiest easy day trips from Palermo and if you love a discount Sicilia Outlet Village is not to be missed.

Distance from Palermo: 150 km
Best transport option: Book the Sicilia Outlet Village shuttle bus. This costs 13€ return, and departs from Teatro Massimo in Palermo. During big sales they do offer this shuttle service for free so check their website for the latest information.

Catania

Catania, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a vibrant city rich in history and culture. The city has some stunning architecture, including the iconic Catania Cathedral and the ancient Roman Theatre, it offers a blend of ancient and modern charm. There is also a lively fish market, that also offers delicious local cuisine and fresh fruit juices. 

The Piazza Del Duomo is Catania’s main square and most notable attractions are within easy walking distance from here. I found that outside this area, Catania was very dirty and I didn’t feel as comfortable walking around here compared with Palermo. 

Catania is more popular with Western tourists due to its close proximity to Mount Etna & Taormina making it a captivating destination.

Distance from Palermo: 213 km
Best transport option: Tourist shuttle with SAIS Autoline

Mt Etna

Visiting Mount Etna in Sicily is an awe-inspiring experience. As Europe’s highest active volcano, it offers breathtaking views and unique landscapes. There are hiking trails for exploration of its volcanic craters and lava flows. And, with snow-capped peaks & steaming vents, the raw power of nature is on display at Mt Etna. Making it a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

If you choose to visit Mt Etna on your own, be sure to check the latest information on the INGV Observatory website because as it’s an active volcano there’s a chance access could be closed. Also, it’s not possible to trek to the summit without a guide due to safety reasons.

The best way to experience Mt Etna is with an organized day trip. Get Your Guide has a 7-hour trekking tour, starting in Catania, that promises to take you off the traditional tourist trails. Past recent lava flow & walk around the Valle Del Bove, which is Etna’s biggest caldera.

Distance from Palermo: 235 km
Best transport option: Tourist shuttle with SAIS to Catania, then book a day tour.

Suggested Tour; Catania: Mount Etna Trekking Trip off the Tourist Path

Taormina

Taormina, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is a charming town renowned for its beauty and historical sites. You may also recognize the name from The White Lotus, season 2, the series showcased Taormina perfectly, it really is that beautiful.

The ancient Greek Theatre, offering panoramic views, is a highlight and is located within close proximity to many shops, restaurants & hotels. Strolling along these picturesque streets, exploring boutiques, and indulging in local cuisine create an unforgettable experience in this captivating Sicilian gem.

At the base of the hills, Taormina sits on is the most stunning coastline and no visit to the area would be complete without basking in the sunshine at Isola Bella. 

Isola Bella

Isola Bella is a small island, that you can easily walk to from the beach. It’s a natural paradise with crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation. The stunning beach, nature reserve, and picturesque gardens make it a must-visit destination for relaxation and nature lovers.

I found the easiest way to get to Isola Bella from Taormina is by foot. The walk took 45 minutes and paved roads or staircases the whole way (google maps offers accurate directions). The other option is to get the cable car from Taormina, for 3 euros one-way, and then walk 700 meters along the coast to Isola Bella. 

During the summer months, Isola Bella feels like the most popular place in the world, but the crowds are well worth it because it’s absolutely stunning. I just wouldn’t arrive much later than 9 am.

Due to the distance between Palermo and Taormina, visiting as one of your day trips from Palermo is possible, but not recommended. Mainly because Taormina is so stunning and only spending a few hours here would be a shame. 

Similarly to what we did when visiting Trapani, we left our Palermo apartment for the night and stayed in Taormina. This way we had a couple of days to enjoy this beautiful part of Sicily, plus time for Catania & Mt Etna. 

Distance from Palermo: 274 km
Best transport option: Self-drive, or tourist shuttle with SAIS to Catania, then train to Taormina.

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streets of Catania in Sicily, Cathedral in the distance. One of the best day trips from Palermo
Catania
Beautiful church in Taormina, Sicily
Taormina
clear waters at Isola Bella beach, near Taormina
Isola Bella

Agrigento & The Valley of the Temples

Visiting Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples will make you question if you’ve somehow stepped into Greece! Located on the southern coast of Sicily, Agrigento and the magnificent Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This collection of remarkably well-preserved Greek temples includes the stunning Temple of Concordia. Exploring the ancient ruins amidst a backdrop of rolling hills, and ocean views, creates a captivating journey through history.

This day trip from Palermo will require an early start as it’s a 2-hour drive. Plus, you’ll want to explore the Valley of the Temples in the morning to beat the Sicilian heat getting too intense.

The Valley of the Temples has an entrance fee of 10 euros, plus an optional 5 euros for an audio guide. Although the map that came with the audio guide was slightly vague and not clear about which monument it was talking about! But still offered some very interesting information. 

Distance from Palermo: 129 km
Best transport option: Self-drive. 

Stair of the Turks (Scala dei Turchi)

Scala dei Turchi, located near Realmonte in Southern Sicily, is a unique natural wonder. Its name, “Stair of the Turks,” comes from the white limestone cliffs that resemble a grand staircase. This stunning coastal formation, with its dazzling white cliffs and turquoise waters, offers a mesmerizing spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets.

Although you can no longer step foot on the limestone cliffs, the backdrop it offers to the ocean is perfect. I absolutely loved swimming here, it was the perfect place to cool off after exploring the Valley of the Temples and I would also recommend bringing snorkelling gear if you have it. 

As the road through Realmonte is set atop of the cliffs, Scala dei Turchi isn’t clear from the road, but when you are close you will notice two separate parking lots signed “Scala dei Turchi”. Once you see them you will be within a good walking distance to the beach. If you want to avoid paying for parking there’s free street parking available, it’s just a matter of getting lucky and finding one. 

The main entrance to the beach is clearly signed and there’s a restaurant & bar located at the top of the stairs before you start descending down the cliff.

Distance from Palermo: 146 km or 15 km from The Valley of the Temples
Best transport option: Self-drive 

Sciacca

This charming coastal town in Sicily is known for its thermal baths, ceramic craftsmanship, and vibrant Carnival celebrations (usually held in February). Sciacca’s picturesque harbour, adorned with colourful fishing boats, offers a delightful atmosphere. The historic centre, with its narrow streets and medieval architecture, invites exploration.

This hilly town is best explored on foot and has many similarities to Palermo that I’m sure you’ll love. 

One of the best things to do in Sciacca is visit Castello Luna, a medieval castle built in 1380 and also visit the Church of Carmine which is located in the centre of town.

Then with so much delicious local cuisine on offer, enjoying dinner while admiring the sunset is the perfect way to end this day trip from Palermo. Bellavista Bar-Tavola Calda is an incredible restaurant with arguably the best sunset views in Sciacca, plus the food was amazing and really cheap. 

Distance from Palermo: 99 km or 50 km from the Stairs of the Turks
Best transport option: Self-drive

Elyse at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. day trips from Palermo
The Valley of the Temples
white limestone cliffs rolling into the ocean. visit on one of your day trips from Palermo
Scala dei Turchi
old man walking up tiled steps in Sciacca in southern sicily, day trips from Palermo
Sciacca

In Conclusion; Day Trips From Palermo

In conclusion, all of these day trips from Palermo offer an array of delightful experiences just waiting to be discovered. From the idyllic coastal retreat of Cefalù with its pristine beaches and charming streets to the ancient wonders of Agrigento. There’s no shortage of adventures to be had in Sicily. Delve into the rich history of Monreale and be in awe of its exquisite cathedral decorated with breathtaking mosaics. And of course the enchanting hilltop village of Erice, where medieval charm and panoramic views collide. For nature enthusiasts, the Zingaro Nature Reserve can’t be missed, with its rugged coastline and serene beauty.

With every one of these day trips from Palermo, I promise you’ll have a truly memorable experience and it’s always a treat to return to this mesmerizing city at the end of the day.

Thanks for reading, 

Happy Travels. 

If you found this information helpful, please consider booking your trip via my affiliate links. This won’t be at any extra cost to you and will help fund this blog, thank you.

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This Post Has 13 Comments

  1. Simina

    Wow there’s so many things to see in Sicily. I’ll save it for the next time I’ll travel to Italy as next month I’m going to the Amalfi Coast.

    1. Elyse

      Thanks so much, yeah there is heaps to do. I was very surprised when I first starting exploring Sicily

  2. Emma

    I’ve got family in Italy so I’ve spent many holidays there but I’ve always wanted to go to Sicily! It looks so amazing – thank you for sharing!

  3. Denise

    Perfect timing! I’ll be in Sicily in the fall! These day trips from Palermo all look fabulous!

  4. Rhonda

    I knew a couple of the towns that you mentioned (and one or 2 that you didn’t) but I didn’t realize there was a town named Corleone. I’d love to learn some of the history of the island.

  5. Brittney

    We just got back from a trip to Italy and Taormina was one of our destinations. Unfortunately, it rained the entire time we were in Sicily, so I really hope to go back one day so we can explore more of the island and hopefully do some snorkeling.

    1. Elyse

      Aww that’s such a shame. You’ll definitely have to go back though, and although it’s busy July/August, the weather was perfect every day

  6. Amanda

    I’ve saved this for my future reference and Sicily planning! While I haven’t been to Palermo, it has a special place in my heart (and bucket list!) because my grandfather immigrated to the US from there back in the 1920’s. I really can’t wait to visit – thanks for all these amazing tips – I’m excited to visit many of these places.

    1. Elyse

      Aww how special Amanda, I’m sure you’ll have an wonderful time when you’re able to go

  7. Josy

    Brilliant post!

    I have wanted to visit Sicily for yeeeears! But I have to admit, the main reason I wanted to go was because of the food. This post just shows I will love the scenery even more than the meals – wowza!! Scopello looks like holiday heaven!

    1. Elyse

      Thank you so much. Yeah the food in Sicily is definitely incredible (and very affordable) but there is so much more to the island, it’s absolutely amazing

  8. I love Sicily and can’t wait to be back! Thanks to your post I have many more spots to explore. Thanks!

  9. Hannah

    Wow so many great things to do! This looks like a dreamy place to visit. Adding to the bucket list!

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