Sicily's east coast: Palermo - Messina - Etna

Route details

A route along the north coast of Sicily to Messina, then southwards along the east coast with Mount Etna as a constant companion to the Cyclopean Riviera near Catania.

This approximately 330-kilometre route leads from the Sicilian capital Palermo along the north coast via Messina to the east coast and ends at Aci Castello north of Catania. The route mainly uses well-maintained coastal roads and sections of the A20 and A18 toll Motorways.

From Palermo, the Route initially heads east along the Tyrrhenian coast. The SS113 state road offers an alternative to the Motorway and leads through Mediterranean landscapes with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. At Messina, you reach the north-eastern tip of Sicily with views of the Strait of Messina and the Calabrian mainland.

From Messina, the Tourer follows the east coast southwards. The SS114 is one of the longest and most important state roads in Sicily and connects Messina with Syracuse via Catania. It runs along the Ionian coast and has an asphalt surface in mostly good condition throughout. You should expect potholes and bumps in remote sections and on secondary roads.

Mount Etna dominates the central and southern section of the Tourer. At over 3,300 meters, it is the highest active volcano in Europe and visibly dominates the landscape. The road leads through orange plantations and along the fertile foothills of the volcano.

The coastal road between Catania and Taormina offers a variety of bends and sea views. The route winds its way through small villages and Mediterranean vegetation. Wet conditions require caution near the coast, as salt residue can make the road slippery.

The destination area near Aci Castello on the Riviera dei Ciclopi is characterized by black volcanic rock and the characteristic Cyclopean islands in the Ionian Sea. The driving style in Sicily is typical of the country - it is advisable to react flexibly to other road users.

The Tour is suitable for drivers with basic cornering skills. The roads are mostly wide enough for relaxed driving, with sections of main road alternating with winding coastal passages. The best time to travel is in spring or fall, when the temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer tourists.