This harbour city on the north-eastern tip of Sicily is separated from Italy’s boot by the Strait of Messina, a body of water that, according to legend, was inhabited by mythical sea monsters.

Messina is the island’s third largest city and is considered the gateway to Sicily. While it often slips under the radar, with its mix of Norman and Gothic architecture, lively local festivals and friendly, welcoming people, it's well worth a stop on any road trip around Sicily.

Visit the 60 metre‑high bell tower with its astronomical clock — at noon each day the figures act out scenes from the city’s history. Stroll along the Viale Italia, the walkway and boulevard running above the city; at the end you'll be rewarded with stunning views across the city and harbour.

Before heading on to your next destination, take the scenic drive out to Torre di Faro, the island’s furthest point. And be sure to try the local delicacy: swordfish.

Against the backdrop of the soaring Madonie mountains, the unfairly beautiful Cefalù is a risky road-trip stop; there’s every chance you’ll never leave. Despite its popularity with tourists, it retains the allure of an authentic little fishing village.

With its gorgeous beaches and Arab-Norman cathedral decked in mosaics, its medieval squares, cobbled streets and honey-coloured buildings, Cefalù truly is a destination designed for the photo album.

Continue your Sicilian road trip from Messina to Cefalù. On arrival, first relax with a cold granita down by the picturesque port. Visit the jewel-like cathedral; it’s a must for any culture-lover.

Then take a hike out to ‘La Rocca’, a giant rock perched above the town with exceptional views over Cefalù. As the sun sets, stroll along the seafront promenade and treat yourself to an Aperol Spritz. And keep your eyes peeled for filming locations from Cinema Paradiso, which was shot here.

Palermo has a reputation for a certain gritty edge, but don’t be put off. It has far too many treats — mostly culinary — to miss out on.

Its eclectic mix of cultural influences, both European and North African, is evident in everything from its architecture to its cuisine. Hectic but full of charm and character, this is a city of winding streets, Byzantine mosaics, domes and boisterous markets. It’s noisy, seductive and unique.

This stopover on a Sicilian road trip is all about the food: make sure to explore the city’s amazing culinary scene in depth. Visit markets such as Vucciria and try treats like panino alla milza, pane e panelle, and skewered octopus.

For a real culture hit, head to the cathedral, the glinting Palatine Chapel — entirely covered in glittering gold mosaics — and the Moorish-Norman Palace. Once you’re done, return to sampling the local delicacies: food is one of the things Palermo does best.

While most famous for its amber-coloured wine, Marsala is also a town with a rich history as an important port and stronghold.

Historically, Marsala was a thriving Roman colony; with the arrival of the Arabs it became a successful trading hub. Today, Marsala is a charming, laid-back stopover on your Sicily road-trip itinerary.

Wander its gleaming marble streets past elegant townhouses and relax in delightful piazzas. Sample great local food and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Low-key but lovely.

Explore the beautiful Baroque old town. Visit the Baglio Anselmi, the town’s cathedral. Learn about the town’s history at the Complesso Monumentale San Pietro. The Archaeological Museum is also worth a visit — its most intriguing relic is a Phoenician boat.

Of course, you should also do some wine tasting; it would be rude not to. Finally, if you have time, you could take a boat trip to the gorgeous Egadi Islands.

While Agrigento, a modern metropolis, isn't the most captivating of cities, this stop on your Sicilian road trip itinerary is about something far more ancient and mythical.

Just behind Agrigento lie the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas in the Valley of the Temples: the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, perched on an 800-metre-long ridge and surrounded by olive groves and almond orchards. Never has the ancient world felt so alive.

After coming back from your time-travel trip to Ancient Greece, you could pop over to Villa Romana del Casale to see its elaborate mosaic murals, including the famous female athletes nicknamed 'The Bikini Girls'.

In the evening, explore the centre of Agrigento, a charming medieval old town with a lively nightlife: beautiful palazzi, majestic churches, and the Via Atenea, the main artery of the old town, lined with trattorias serving delicious local food and bustling bars.

Cicero called Syracuse “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all.” He wasn’t wrong. As a stop on your Sicily road trip, you’ll find unspoilt historic beauty around every corner.

Ancient Greek ruins emerging from citrus orchards. Cobbled lanes that lead you to Baroque piazzas. Stately churches and golden buildings tumbling towards the turquoise sea. This city will transport you back in time.

Visit the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius. Be awe‑struck by the ancient ruins of the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis. Take a boat trip around Porto Grande, where the Syracusans and Athenians clashed in 413 BC.

Then swap ancient culture for something more modern with a wander around Ortygia, a trendy, sophisticated hub linked to the mainland by a bridge.

Discover artisan boutiques, puppet shows, chic new wine bars and pebbly beaches where fishermen still mend their nets. Sample the local food — every bit as unforgettable as the city itself.