8 days
From US $1,395
Self-guided Southeast Sicily Bike Tour
Get ready to ride through a land where golden sunlight bathes ancient ruins, Baroque cities glow with elegance, and the sea is never far from view. This cycling journey through southeast Sicily invites you to explore a stunning region shaped by earthquakes, empires, and artistry—at your own pace.
Your adventure begins in Palazzolo Acreide, tucked in the Iblei Mountains, where quiet streets and ornate churches set the tone. From there, each day reveals a new treasure: the honey-colored towns of Ragusa Ibla and Modica, where graceful architecture meets rich culinary traditions (including Modica’s famed Aztec-inspired chocolate). Scenic roads guide you through canyons and coastal wetlands, past bird sanctuaries and fishing villages where time seems to stand still.
You’ll pedal to the very tip of the island at Isola delle Correnti, where two seas meet, and unwind in charming Marzamemi before heading inland to Noto—the undisputed capital of Sicilian Baroque. The grand finale brings you to Siracusa, once the jewel of Magna Graecia. Its Greek theater, ancient temples, and island heart of Ortigia blend thousands of years of history with the vibrant life of a modern Mediterranean city.
With mostly gentle terrain, flexible daily distances, and plenty of time to explore, this self-guided tour offers the perfect balance of activity and immersion. Whether you're drawn to architectural marvels, coastal landscapes, archaeological wonders, or simply the joy of cycling through sun-drenched countryside, southeast Sicily promises an unforgettable experience—one that connects you deeply to the island’s past and present, all from the saddle of your bike.
Palazzolo Acreide
Siracusa
casual
easy to moderate
46km / 28mi
6
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
Min. 2, Max. 10
Highlights
The Baroque Gems of the Val di Noto
Cycle through a region reborn after the 1693 earthquake, where towns like Ragusa Ibla, Modica, Scicli, and Noto dazzle with their ornate facades, grand staircases, and intricate balconies. Each city is a showcase of Sicilian Baroque architecture, and wandering their historic centers feels like stepping into an open-air museum bathed in golden light.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Place | casual Inns (subject to availability) | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Palazzolo Acreide | Hotel Feudo Bauly (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Modica | Ferro Hotel | B | 50km / 31mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Pozzallo | Hotel 1921 | B | 42km / 26mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Marzamemi | Villa Giulia (4-star) | B | 57km / 35mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Noto | Hotel Netum | B | 35km / 21mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Siracusa | Hotel Gutkowski | B | 38-55km / 23-34mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Siracusa | Hotel Gutkowski | B | ||
| DAY 8 | Siracusa | B | cycling |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Palazzolo Acreide
Arrive in Palazzolo Acreide, a peaceful village nestled in the Iblei Mountains. It is recognized I Borghi più belli d'Italia, or one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Your hotel for the day is a special place. The Feudo Bauly is a heritage property dating back to the 1700s, when it was the residence of Baron Gabriele Judica, the archaeologist who started the excavations of the Greek Theater of Palazzolo.
After receiving your bike, maps, and travel information, take time to explore the village at your own pace. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with elegant Baroque buildings, or step into the ornate churches of San Paolo and San Sebastiano.
The town’s relaxed atmosphere invites you to unwind and get into the rhythm of Sicilian life. Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the historic center and rest up—you’re about to set off on a journey filled with unforgettable sights, stories, and coastal charm.
Day 2: Modica
Begin your ride with a scenic descent from Palazzolo Acreide, through the dramatic landscapes of the Monti Iblei.
Quiet country roads wind past dry-stone walls and sunlit valleys. Stop to explore Ragusa Ibla, perched dramatically on a hill and rich with Baroque beauty. Wander its alleys, admire the Duomo di San Giorgio, then continue toward Modica, where graceful palazzi and churches await.
Don’t miss the impressive San Giorgio church before you call it a day. It’s a day of hilltop towns, timeless streets, and spectacular views that reveal the soul of southeastern Sicily.
99% paved, 1% unpaved
Elevation: 659m Distance: 50 km
Day 3: Pozzallo
Start your morning with a taste of Modica’s famous spiced chocolate—crafted from an ancient Aztec recipe brought by the Spanish. Then enjoy a thrilling downhill ride through a canyon carved into the Iblei Mountains.
Soon you'll arrive in Scicli, a charming Baroque town with winding alleys and quiet piazzas, perfect for a mid-morning stroll. Continue pedaling toward the coast, where the landscape opens to golden fields and the scent of the sea.
Reach Pozzallo in time for a swim or a sunset walk on the beach. It’s the perfect mix of culture, coast, and indulgence.
99% paved, 1% unpaved
Elevation: 317 m
Day 4: Marzamemi
Cycle along the flat, breezy coast today, through wetlands like Pantano Longarini and Pantano Cuba—paradise for birdwatchers.
Reach Isola delle Correnti, Sicily’s southernmost point, where the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas meet. You are now at the same latitude as Tunis in Africa. Continue through the colorful fishing town of Portopalo and roll into Marzamemi, a postcard-perfect village with a rich maritime past.
Grab lunch by the sea before finishing the ride in nearby San Lorenzo. Today’s ride is a sensory journey—sunlight shimmering on water, the call of seabirds overhead, and the peaceful rhythm of cycling along Sicily’s southern edge.
Stay tonight is at yet another charming heritage property, dating back to 1875.
99% paved, 1% unpaved
Elevation: 241 m
Day 5: Noto
Pedal north along the coast, entering the pristine oasis of Vendicari—a nature reserve teeming with flamingos, herons, and rare Mediterranean flora.
Ride quiet paths along untouched beaches and ancient watchtowers before turning inland through rolling vineyards. Soon, the golden city of Noto rises before you. Known as the capital of Sicilian Baroque, it dazzles with its honey-colored stone, ornate palazzi, and majestic churches.
Take time to explore the Corso Vittorio Emanuele, lined with cafés and history. Whether you admire the cathedral or simply soak up the atmosphere, Noto is an architectural and cultural treasure.
99% paved, 1% unpaved
Elevation: 360 m
Day 6: Siracusa
You have two route options today—choose the flat coastal road for a breezy seaside ride, or venture inland to the stunning Cavagrande del Cassibile gorge.
If you take the detour, prepare for a rewarding climb followed by a thrilling descent to the coast.
Whichever path you choose, your destination is Siracusa, also known as Syracuse, a historical town that was once one of the most powerful cities of ancient Greece.
Explore its impressive archaeological park, home to a vast Greek theater. Then head to Ortigia, the city’s historic island heart, for a magical evening among ancient temples, lively squares, and sea views.
99% paved, 1% unpaved
Long route: Elevation: 600 m Distance: 59 km
Short route: Elevation: 157m Distance: 39km
Day 7: Siracusa
Today you take a break from cycling and explore on your own.
Spend the day discovering Ortigia, the historical core of Siracusa. This tiny island is packed with wonders—from ancient ruins and Baroque churches to hidden courtyards and bustling markets.
Visit the Duomo, built on the site of a Greek temple, or stroll the seafront promenade as fishermen bring in the day’s catch. Don’t miss the lively fish market or the spring of Arethusa, steeped in myth. With over 3,000 years of history beneath your feet, Siracusa invites you to slow down and savor its layered past and vibrant present.
Day 8: Siracusa
Your tour finally ends in Siracusa. After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Sicily—or linger a little longer and keep exploring. Until next time!
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $550
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $100
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Drossiger e-Bike Trekking or similar
Included in your trip price
Droessiger E-city trekking Wave or similar
Included in your trip price
Droessiger TrekkingSportDiamantBasis or similar
Included in your trip price
Droessiger Trekking Sport Trapez Basis or similar
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Palazzolo Acreide. The nearest international airport is the Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) located 92 kilometers (57 miles) away. Bus service is available from the Catania airport to reach Palazzolo Acreide. Private taxis are also available from the airport.
Departure
Your tour ends in Siracusa. The nearest airport is once again, the Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) in Catania located 61 kilometers (38 miles) away. There is good bus and train connectivity from Siracusa to the airport, and this is also the most economical way to travel. If you want, you can also book a private cab from your hotel to the airport.
Weather
Sicily offers a wide cycling season thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate.
The best months for cycling are April, May, September, and October, when temperatures are warm but comfortable, and the landscapes are lush and colorful.
March, June, and November are also good times to ride, with generally pleasant weather and fewer crowds. February and December can be a mixed bag—cooler and less predictable, but still doable with the right gear.
July and August can get hot in Sicily, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F). However, since we stay close to the coast for most of the trip, the sea has a moderating effect on the climate.
January
Offseason
February
Mixed
March
Good
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Good
December
Mixed
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
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