Southern Sicily Road Trip

Experience the best of Southern Sicily on a 3 day road trip from Avola to Acate. Along the route of approximately 190 km, discover the historical sites, stunning landscapes, and picturesque towns of Portopalo di Capo Passero, Donnalucata, and Ragusa. The best time to drive is in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. The roads are generally in good condition, although some sections may be narrow and winding. This road trip is perfect for all types of drivers, from the experienced to the novice, and offers a high level of experience and memories at a reasonable cost. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip in Southern Sicily!

Avola, Italy is an ideal starting point for the Southern Sicily Road Trip. With its stunning Baroque architecture and sandy beaches, this charming town is a great introduction to the beautiful region. Start your journey with a visit to the Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso, one of the most beautiful churches in Avola. Take a leisurely stroll down the main street, and explore the many shops, cafes and restaurants that line it. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city at the San Giorgio Park, a tranquil spot that offers great views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re traveling by air, the closest international airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport (IATA: CTA). From there, you can easily rent a car to continue your road trip. Alternatively, you can also rent a car at the airport to explore the region at your own pace. Avola is the perfect starting point for a road trip through Southern Sicily. With its beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, this charming town is the perfect place to begin your adventure.

Embark on a 36 km journey through the stunning countryside of Sicily, starting in Avola, Italy and ending in Portopalo di Capo Passero. Along the way, take in the sights of Noto, a Baroque-style city known for its impressive architecture. This drive should take you less than an hour, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. On your way, you will pass by historical sites and along scenic roads, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for interesting sights. In some sections, the road will be narrow, so be sure to drive carefully. This is just one of many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Portopalo di Capo Passero, Italy to Donnalucata! This journey of 59 km will take you less than 2 hours to complete, and will take you through the stunning Pozzallo. The road is narrow in sections, so be sure to pay attention to the scenic views. On the way, you'll pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area. In Pozzallo, take a break and explore the beaches, or enjoy a delicious seafood lunch. You can also take a stroll in the old town and visit the 16th century castle. Then, make your way to Donnalucata and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the town. Be sure to visit the local churches and the archaeological sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Take a road trip through the stunning Italian countryside, starting in Donnalucata and ending in Ragusa, just 33 km away. The drive takes less than an hour, and you'll be amazed by the beautiful landscapes and historical sites along the way. Make sure to keep an eye out for the steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. As you travel, take time to explore the charming towns of Modica and Ragusa. In Modica, you can visit the Church of San Giorgio, a Baroque-style church with a stunning façade, or the Palazzo dei Duchi di San Giovanni, a 15th-century palace. In Ragusa, explore the Duomo di San Giorgio, a Baroque cathedral, or the Palazzo Cosentini, a beautiful 18th-century palace. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a 45km road trip from Ragusa to Comiso and explore the most interesting places of Chiaramonte Gulfi on the way! With a driving time of less than an hour, you will be able to take in the beauty of the region's winding roads and narrow sections. Enjoy the scenic views as you pass through the countryside, and take in the stunning sights this area has to offer. Visit the historical monuments of the town, such as the Cathedral of San Giorgio or the Church of San Giuseppe. Alternatively, explore the local markets, sample the local cuisine and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Once you reach Comiso, you can explore the Castello dei Conti, the Church of San Francesco and the Church of San Domenico. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a beautiful journey that starts in Comiso, Italy, and takes you through Vittoria and ends in Acate. This 16km-long trip takes less than an hour to complete, and you’ll be amazed by the scenic roads you’ll be travelling on. In Comiso, make sure to pay a visit to the Comiso Cathedral and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Vittoria is the perfect place to spend some time in the sun, so don’t forget to take a stroll around the city centre and enjoy its beautiful squares. In Acate, you can visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Castle of Acate. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so if you’re looking for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey!

End your Southern Sicily Road Trip in Acate, Italy and uncover the hidden gems of the area. Acate, a town located in the Ragusa province of Sicily, is a great place to explore and discover the rich culture and history of the area. Acate is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views, as well as its unique architecture. While visiting, make sure to take a stroll along the waterfront and take in the spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. The town also features a number of old churches, including the Church of San Giuseppe and the Church of San Salvatore. Another great place to explore in Acate is the archaeological area of Cava d'Ispica. Here, you'll find the ruins of ancient Greek and Roman settlements, as well as the remains of a Byzantine castle. You can also explore the nearby caves, which were once used as hiding places for refugees during the Middle Ages. If you're looking to relax and unwind, Acate has plenty of options for you. From beachfront villas to traditional Italian restaurants, there's something for everyone. For those looking to explore more of the area, the nearby cities of Ragusa and Modica are just a short drive away. If you're traveling to Acate by air, the closest international airport is Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) located about 50 miles away. End your Southern Sicily Road Trip in Acate and explore the unique culture and history of the area. From stunning beaches to ancient ruins, Acate is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 3-day journey through Southern Sicily, starting from the historic town of Avola, known for its almonds and Nero d'Avola wine, and ending in Acate, a town with a rich wine-making tradition. Covering a distance of approximately 190 km (118 miles), this Road Trip promises an immersive experience through the region's rich historical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and picturesque towns.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Portopalo di Capo Passero: Discover the southernmost point of Sicily, a significant geographical landmark where you can witness the confluence of the Ionian and Mediterranean seas. Nearby, you can visit the charming Isola delle Correnti and explore the remains of an ancient Roman shipwreck off the coast.
• Donnalucata: This coastal village is a hidden gem with its beautiful promenade, golden sandy beaches, and clear waters. It's also known for its appearance in the popular Italian TV series `Inspector Montalbano.`
• Ragusa: Dive into the heart of Sicilian Baroque with Ragusa Ibla, the city's old quarter, which is a part of the Val di Noto UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional Baroque architecture. With over 50 churches and numerous palazzi, the city is a treasure trove for history and art lovers.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time for this Road Trip is during spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November), benefiting from the mild and pleasant weather. These seasons allow travelers to enjoy the vibrant colors of nature, the harvest season for local produce, and avoid the peak summer heat and tourist crowds.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are mostly in good condition, travelers should be cautious of narrow and winding sections that may present challenges, especially for less experienced drivers. Additionally, be mindful of the siesta hours when local shops may close, and plan your itinerary accordingly.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This journey is suitable for all driving levels and offers an enriching experience at a reasonable cost. The Trip provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in the region's culinary delights, including fresh seafood, renowned Sicilian pastries, and local wines such as Cerasuolo di Vittoria. Moreover, the area is steeped in history with traces of ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans.

A good choice for:

Prepare for an extraordinary Road Trip filled with culture, history, and natural beauty in Southern Sicily. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time Road Tripper, this adventure is sure to create lasting memories as you explore one of the most enchanting regions of Italy.