We (husband 13 year old daughter and I) will be in Italy for 6 weeks 28 August - 3 October starting in the North and spending 4 days around the amalfi Coast mid september before heading to Sicily (either Taormina or Palermo?) for a week- still to decide where in Sicily...my question is given we have a car for the whole 5+ weeks would you recommend us driving there and stopping somewhere half way? if so where? and given we have then covered that ground what about getting ferry back to Rome.?. This is where we will spend last 4 days before training it back to Milan to fly out.

We will be catching up with another family in Sicily so three kids altogether - so ideas if where to stay and suggestions on a thought I had...split 4 days in Sicily somewhere and 3 days on Lipari? Your wisdom and experience is appreciated...we love markets, food, beaches, fishing, seafood, quaint old villages.... Thanks Jenny

Look at Tropea if a seaside venue is attractive.

Maratea and Amantea would bear looking at if you want to be near the sea. The first is more upscale than the second but both are charming spots for a visit of a few days to a week.

Also look at towns in the Cilento area, such as Pisciotta.

Other options would be agriturismo farms along the main highway....places such as Le Farnie, which is but one example of many low priced rural accommodations with reportedly excellent food.

http://www.agriturismolefarnie.it/index.php?p=39

Determine more or less what area you wish to make the stop and I can offer further help..