Duration : 8 Hours
Starting From:If you’re
looking for a day with real variety plus something active and outdoors, this
private shore excursion from Palermo Port is a perfect match. In one
smooth itinerary you’ll see the ancient Greek site of Segesta, the
coastal charm of Scopello, and the seaside atmosphere of Castellammare
del Golfo—with time for scenic viewpoints, nature trails, and (season and
timing permitting) a swim or a relaxing stop by the sea.
Cruise
guests: we coordinate your route around docking and all-aboard times for a
relaxed day ashore (see cruise arrival instructions) and a safe return with our on-time return guarantee.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Port
Pickup & On-Time Return
Pickup at Palermo Port (please refer to your confirmation for precise
meeting instructions). We build the day to ensure a comfortable return to the
pier with our on-time return guarantee.
Suggested
Itinerary (8 Hours – Flexible & Customizable)
This is a private shore excursion, so we can adjust pacing and timing within
reason, always protecting your ship return time.
Pickup
at Palermo Port
Meet your driver at the port at the scheduled time.
Drive
along the Gulf of Castellammare (scenic route)
Enjoy an undeveloped stretch of coastline with unspoiled beaches and small
villages.
Stop 1:
Segesta
Visit the Greek Doric temple (5th century BC) and the ancient theater with
panoramic views. If you’d like, we can also discuss the nearby thermal baths
option depending on timing and season.
Stop 2:
Scopello
Enjoy the charming hamlet atmosphere and coastal scenery. For something active,
consider a short walk on one of the nature reserve trails (walking level and
weather permitting). This is also a great place to try local specialties.
Stop 3:
Castellammare del Golfo
Enjoy the seaside town feel, beaches, and (if you wish) the Arab-Norman castle
for beautiful views over the coast.
Return
to Palermo Port
Timing planned around docking and all-aboard time for a smooth return.
Why book
with DriverInRome
Licensed & insured operator (official Lazio Region license)
Thousands of 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, and Trustpilot
Experienced English-speaking drivers
Clear logistics, flexible pacing, and reliable timing for cruise guests
Cruise guests: we coordinate your route around docking and all-aboard times for
a relaxed day ashore (see cruise arrival instructions) and a safe return with our on-time return guarantee.
Learn more on our About Us page.
What
You’ll See
Segesta: Greek Doric temple, ancient theater, panoramic countryside
views
Scopello: charming hamlet atmosphere, coastal scenery, nature trails
nearby
Castellammare del Golfo: seaside town views, beaches, Arab-Norman castle
More shore excursions from your port:
PA01 - Palermo & Monreale Shore Excursion
PA02 - Palermo, Segesta & Erice Shore Excursion
PA03 - Palermo, Cefalu & Monreale
See
all Palermo shore excursions
Included
Not included
What to
expect from your driver on a private day trip or shore excursion:
Our drivers will share with you the facts and history of the places and
monuments you will be seeing from inside the vehicle. Note that drivers in
Italy are not permitted to share information once you have exited the vehicle,
nor can they accompany you on foot. You will have the opportunity to stop in
each area listed on the itinerary to explore on your own. We can arrange a
private guide for you if you wish to be accompanied inside churches,
archeological sites, and other points of interest (additional expense; refer to
the Optional Items section, if present, or contact us for details).
Is this tour private?
Yes. This is a private shore excursion operated exclusively for your party, with your own driver and private vehicle from Palermo Port.
Can you customize the itinerary on the day?
Yes, within reason. Since this is a private tour, we can adjust pacing based on your interests (more archaeology, more coastal scenery, more time in town), while always protecting your ship return time.
How far is Segesta from Palermo Port, and how much driving is involved?
Segesta is about a 1-hour drive from Palermo Port. This itinerary includes multiple stops, so you should expect a mix of scenic driving and walking time at each location.
What are the must-see highlights in Segesta?
The main highlights are the beautifully preserved Greek Doric temple and the ancient theater with panoramic views. Many guests love how “open” and natural the site feels compared to crowded city attractions.
Do we need tickets in advance for Segesta?
Tickets are not included. In many cases, tickets can be purchased on-site, but if you’re traveling in peak season or want the smoothest entry, tell us in advance and we’ll advise the best approach for that day.
Are the Segesta thermal baths included, and can we stop there?
The thermal baths are not included. If you want to include them, we can discuss timing, season, and what’s realistic within your ship schedule. It’s a great option for guests who want something outdoors and relaxing, but it depends on conditions and time.
What are the must-see highlights in Scopello?
Scopello is loved for its charming hamlet atmosphere, coastal scenery, and the nearby nature reserve trails. It’s a great stop if you want photos, a relaxed stroll, and a more “local” feel.
Can we hike in the Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve?
Often yes, if weather and timing allow and your group enjoys walking. We typically recommend a short, manageable trail rather than a long hike, so you still have time for the other stops and a comfortable return to the port.
What are the must-see highlights in Castellammare del Golfo?
Many guests enjoy the seaside views, the town atmosphere, and the Arab-Norman castle for panoramic photos. It’s also a nice place to take a break by the water.
Is lunch included? Can you recommend local food?
Lunch is not included. Your driver can recommend good local options based on timing and your preferences. If you want to try a classic local specialty in the area, just tell us what you like (simple, quick, sit-down, seafood, etc.) and we’ll plan accordingly.
Is the driver also a guide?
Our English-speaking drivers are not licensed guides on foot. They can share helpful context and highlights from inside the vehicle, but they cannot provide guided explanations once you are outside the vehicle. If you want a licensed guide, we can arrange one on request (additional cost).
Does the driver come inside sites with us?
No. Only a licensed guide is authorized to accompany you during visits inside sites. Your driver will drop you off close to the sights and stay with the vehicle during your visit.
Is this tour suitable for seniors or guests with limited mobility?
It can be, depending on walking comfort. Archaeological areas and hill towns can include uneven ground and steps. If you share mobility needs in advance, we can recommend the best pacing and prioritize the most accessible viewpoints.
What should we wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Segesta and any nature trail time. Bring sun protection, a light layer for breezes, and water. If you want to swim, bring swimwear and a small towel (season permitting).
Do you guarantee an on-time return to the ship?
Yes. We build the day around docking and all-aboard times and plan the route to ensure a comfortable return to the pier with our on-time return guarantee.
What happens if the ship can’t dock due to weather?
If the ship does not make it to the pier due to bad weather, you will not be considered responsible and no charge will be made to your credit card.
Is gratuity included (is tipping expected in Italy)?
Gratuity is not included. Tipping is always optional and based on your satisfaction. As a simple guideline: 10% is good, 15% is great, and 20% is exceptional. Please tip only if you really liked the service.
There
will be a full charge for bookings canceled with less than 72-hour notice for
any service required. In this case, a full charge will be made on your credit
card.
If you miss your flight or if your airline decides to cancel the flight due to
bad weather or if your flight is directed to another airport on arrival, please
advise us on time (as soon as you know) or a full charge will be made.
Please give us enough time so we can accept other reservations and allocate
them to our chauffeurs.
If the ship does not make it to the pier for bad weather, you will not be
considered responsible so NO CHARGE will be made to your credit card.
A full charge will be made for a no-show-up.
Only pre-purchased skip-the-line tickets (if requested) are not refundable
under the circumstance and will be charged to your card.
Transfer Services activated.