Driving Route in Sicily Stage 3: Taormina to Palermo

Embarking on a road trip across Sicily is not merely a journey; it’s a captivating adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and delightful culinary experiences. In this guide, we will delve into the enchanting route from Taormina to Palermo, offering insights that will turn your travels into unforgettable memories.

Prepare yourself to explore the coastal beauty of Sicily. This journey promises stunning vistas, quaint towns, and hidden gems that will enrich your experience. Buckle up as we take you through this remarkable road trip!

Overview of Your Journey

Starting Point: Taormina
Ending Point: Palermo
Total Distance: 388 km

Duration: 3 days of exploration

• Day 11: Taormina to Milazzo (138 km)
• Day 12: Explore Milazzo
• Day 13: Milazzo to Cefalú (149 km)
• Day 14: Discover Cefalú
• Day 15: Cefalú to Palermo (101 km)

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Days 11 and 12: Taormina to Milazzo

As we bid farewell to our charming B&B in Taormina, we descend the same picturesque road that brought us up, leaving the stunning Isola Bella to our right. The memories of its beautiful beach linger as we take the coastal road, excitedly heading towards the easternmost point of Sicily: Torre Faro.

Our drive takes us through Messina, although we don’t stop for long. The city doesn’t appear to offer much, and we find ourselves caught in traffic for almost an hour. As we continue along the coastal road, the Italian mainland looms closer across the Straits of Messina, teasing us with the thought of a bridge connecting the two lands. But the ferry business, it seems, has its own agenda.

Torre Faro: A Hidden Gem

In Torre Faro, a quaint fishing village, we were pleasantly surprised by the lively atmosphere. Perhaps it was the Sunday vibe, but there was a palpable sense of joy. We seized the opportunity to enjoy a seafood meal, trying the local delicacy: involtini spada, delicious swordfish rolls stuffed with breadcrumbs, lemon, garlic, and parsley. A culinary delight!

Milazzo: Gateway to the Aeolian Islands

Our exploration of Sicily’s northern coast begins in Milazzo, a less congested area with narrow roads and stunning views. Milazzo serves as a gateway to the Aeolian Islands, with numerous boat tours available, such as this one.

Opting to linger in Milazzo, we couldn't resist spending a few days soaking up the local charm. After all, the allure of the islands is strong, but so is the temptation to unwind in a beautiful fishing town. Our desire to explore the islands might lead us to return for an entire week dedicated to this volcanic paradise.

Capo di Milazzo: A Scenic Escape

The second day in Milazzo invites us to venture out and explore the surrounding areas. The town boasts a castle perched high above, although we find the opening hours a bit restrictive. We travel to the tip of Capo di Milazzo, where trails lead to the lighthouse and secluded coves. The vista from here is absolutely stunning.

After a day of exploration, we relish the chance to relax in our apartment, which offers direct beach access. Sunbathing and taking refreshing dips in the sea become our favorite pastimes, with the October water a little brisk but invigorating. The mesmerizing sunsets are the cherry on top of our tranquil getaway.

Days 13 and 14: From Milazzo to Cefalú

As we drive along the coast, remnants of the past become visible in the form of various bunkers, a reminder of the region’s role during World War II. Milazzo was heavily bombarded due to its strategic military importance. These structures not only serve as historical markers but also invite contemplation about the rich and sometimes tumultuous history of Sicily.

Santuario di Madonna di Tindari

Rising majestically in the distance is the Santuario di Madonna di Tindari, which is home to the revered Black Madonna. The road to the sanctuary winds steeply upward, and although we didn’t stop, it’s an intriguing site worth visiting. The ruins of the ancient city of Tindarys, with its Greek and Roman roots, would certainly make for a fascinating exploration.

The drive towards Cefalú continues along the coastline, revealing breathtaking cliffs and some of the most scenic roads in Sicily. This stretch is a treasure for anyone who appreciates stunning landscapes.

Capo d’Orlando: Culinary Delights

We pause for lunch in Capo d’Orlando, indulging in pizza and a delicious seafood pasta that left us in awe. It’s these culinary experiences that truly enhance our travel, making every stop memorable. Finally, we reach our destination: Cefalú, one of the highlights of our trip!

Day 15: The Final Leg: Cefalú to Palermo

The last segment of our road trip from Cefalú to Palermo is nothing short of delightful. This charming village, nestled at the foot of the ancient Rocca, provides a picturesque backdrop to conclude our Sicilian adventure.

Cefalú: A Coastal Paradise

Cefalú shines with its clear waters and beautiful beaches. While we enjoyed the stony shores of Milazzo, here is an excellent spot to sunbathe and snorkel. For a deeper dive into what Cefalú has to offer, check out this guide.

Monreale: The Cathedral Awaits

We had intended to visit Monreale and its stunning cathedral, but with time running short, we decide to save this for our next Sicilian journey. After all, leaving something to explore on a future trip is a reason to return!

As we drive back to Palermo, we traverse the highway, passing the poignant memorial dedicated to judges Falcone and Borsellino. This emotional farewell leaves a lasting impression. Sicily has offered us so much, and we leave with dreams of returning one day.

Sicily is truly a breathtaking island, full of charm and beauty. Did you enjoy this road trip from Taormina to Palermo? We hope it inspires you to discover this stunning destination!

Essential Preparations for an Amazing Trip

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