Combining Solo Travelling with an Organised Tour: Why I Love It + My Planning Secrets as a Type-A Traveller

“Aren’t you scared to travel solo?”
If I had a cannolo for every time I heard this…I would be high on sugar right now!

Truth is, solo travel isn’t about being fearless, it’s about being free. And for me, Sicily was the perfect destination to embrace that freedom.

🌍 Why I Enjoy Travelling Solo

  • You set your own pace – slow mornings or packed schedules.
  • You connect more deeply with locals
  • You build self-trust – navigating buses, markets, and moments of “Where the heck am I?” becomes empowering.

🗂️ My Planning Process (Type-A Style)

As a Type A traveller, I plan extensively before a trip. This gives me more freedom at my destination and helps ensure my safety, especially when travelling solo.

Here’s how I prep before every trip:

  • Research accommodations close to historic centres (so I can walk everywhere).
  • Book unique tours in advance to avoid queues or missing out.
  • Keep a list of must-visit restaurants, cafes, and attractions – always with backups!
  • Build in flexibility for spontaneous detours, naps, or gelato runs.

🏖️ My Sicily Itinerary (Yes, It’s Detailed. I Regret Nothing.)

Sicily is bursting with history, beautiful landscapes and charm – so yes, I went full Type-A and mapped it all out. Here’s the plan 🗺️

💡 Sicily Travel Tips I Wish I’d Known

  1. Don’t underestimate Sicily’s size.
    If you only have a week, pick either East (Catania, Taormina, Siracusa) or West (Palermo, Cefalù, Trapani). To do it all, you’ll want 2 weeks or more.
  2. Give key towns more time.
    Spots like Cefalù and Taormina deserve at least two days to go beyond the tourist trail.
  3. Prepare for serious heat.
    I love the sun, but late August in Sicily is no joke. Hydrate like it’s your job, and don’t forget a hat + sunnies.
  4. The history is deep.
    Sicily is layered with Greek, Arab, Norman, and Roman influences – from food to architecture to the people and the land itself. I loved how knowledgeable our guides (Placido & Gabriele) were. However, I wish I’d done more pre-trip reading myself. I think it would have made for a more dynamic experience. But I did do my homework so if you like a bit of history check my blog: Sicily: Where Every Street Corner Tells a Story
  5. Sicily = 10 trips in one.
    There’s so much to explore. The more intentional your planning, the better your experience.

✈️ Final Thoughts

Sicily is a destination that truly suits every kind of traveller. But if you’re like me – craving independence with a touch of structure and security – combining solo travel with the occasional organised tour is the perfect middle ground.

💬 I’d love to hear from you:

Drop a comment below or share your own planning hacks!

Happy travels xoxo

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