Sicily's heritage, cuisine & coastal beauty

Sicily's heritage, cuisine & coastal beauty

from US$7,290 per person

Embark on a 12-day journey through Sicily's cultural and natural wonders. Begin in Palermo, exploring its historic center and indulging in local cuisine before experiencing Monreale's cathedral and Cefalù's coastal charm. You'll then uncover ancient ruins in Segesta, wander the medieval streets in Erice, and discover Agrigento's Valley of the Temples. Other highlights include immersing yourself in Syracuse's history, visiting Ragusa, Modica, Noto, and Avola, and ascending Mount Etna before spending your last few days relaxing on the coast in Taormina.

Services

Included:

  • Bespoke, handcrafted itinerary
  • Buying local to support communities
  • Accommodation in your preferred hotel category
  • Select meals depending on the itinerary
  • Arranged in-trip transportation (driver, car rental or public transport)
  • Excursions and authentic experiences led by expert guides
  • Sightseeing entrance fees to select attractions
  • 24/7 in-destination assistance

Excluded:

  • International flights 

  • Travel insurance 

  • Visa charges 

  • Tips/gratuities 

  • Personal expenses

Optional:

  • Speak to your local expert if there's an experience that you'd really love to include in your trip

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1

Palermo

Ciao Palermo!

Day 2

Palermo - Monreale - Palermo

The charm of Monreale

Day 3

Palermo - Castelbuono - Palermo

Coastal wonders & medieval marvels

Day 4

Palermo - Erice - Palermo

Explore iconic historical landmarks

Day 5

Palermo - Agrigento

Journey to Agrigento

Day 6

Agrigento - Caltagirone - Syracuse

A day of vibrance

Day 7

Syracuse

Tour Syracuse's ancient ruins

Day 8

Syracuse - Modica - Syracuse

Indulge in Modica's chocolate delights

Day 9

Syracuse - Avola - Syracuse

Baroque charms & winery adventures

Day 10

Syracuse - Mount Etna - Taormina

Day 11

Taormina

Tranquil delights in Taormina

Day 12

Taormina

Goodbye, Italy!

Detailed Itinerary

Ciao Palermo!

Palermo

Day 1: Ciao Palermo!

Arrive at Palermo Airport then transfer to your charming hotel in the heart of Palermo. Take a moment to settle in before heading out to explore the historic center of Sicily's cultural capital. Wander the streets of Palermo visiting iconic landmarks such as the magnificent Palazzo dei Normanni.

Once evening falls, enjoy some traditional Sicilian cuisine for your welcome dinner, before a relaxing overnight stay.

The charm of Monreale

Palermo - Monreale - Palermo

Day 2: The charm of Monreale

Start the day by exploring more of Palermo; immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the Capo Market sampling local delicacies, then why not visit the majestic Palermo Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Later that day, take a short trip to Monreale where you can marvel at the stunning Monreale Cathedral, an architectural treasure in Sicily, before exploring its picturesque surroundings. 

Back in Palermo, as evening approaches take a stroll along the enchanting seaside promenade of Foro Italico, relishing the serene views of the Mediterranean Sea. Finish the day with dinner at a charming seaside restaurant, indulging in the culinary delights of the region.

Coastal wonders & medieval marvels

Palermo - Castelbuono - Palermo

Day 3: Coastal wonders & medieval marvels

Grab breakfast before taking a scenic journey to the coastal town of Cefalù, celebrated for its picturesque old town and the impressive Cefalù Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Continue on to the medieval town of Castelbuono, where you can explore the historic Castello dei Ventimiglia and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Castelbuono. 

After a day of exploration, return to Palermo to enjoy a delightful dinner at a local trattoria where you can savor traditional dishes like arancini and pasta con le sarde.

Explore iconic historical landmarks

Palermo - Erice - Palermo

Day 4: Explore iconic historical landmarks

Depart from Palermo for the day as you journey to the ancient Greek ruins of Segesta, for an opportunity to marvel at the well-preserved Doric temple dating back to the 5th century B.C.

Afterward, continue to the medieval hilltop town of Erice, where you can meander through its charming cobblestone streets and discover historic landmarks like the majestic Venus Castle. From Erice's scenic overlooks, take in the stunning panoramic vistas of the coastline and the lush surrounding countryside.

After a day filled with cultural and historical wonders, return to Palermo, enriched by the day's experiences.

Journey to Agrigento

Palermo - Agrigento

Day 5: Journey to Agrigento

Leave Palermo behind and commence your journey to Agrigento, a land steeped in ancient history. Your day unfolds amidst the grandeur of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of the Temples. Here, you'll wander among the storied remnants of ancient Greece, beholding the majestic ruins of the Temple of Concordia, Temple of Juno, and Temple of Hercules. 

As the day draws to a close, relish the flavors of Sicily with a delectable dinner in Agrigento, sampling local specialties that tantalize the palate. Your evening finds tranquility in the charming surroundings as you retire for an overnight stay in Agrigento.

A day of vibrance

Agrigento - Caltagirone - Syracuse

Day 6: A day of vibrance

Embark on a picturesque journey from Agrigento to the charming town of Caltagirone, renowned for its lively ceramics industry that infuses the streets with vibrant colors and intricate designs! En route, pause in Piazza Armerina to marvel at the awe-inspiring Villa Romana del Casale - a testament to the opulence of Roman villa life.

Upon arrival in Caltagirone, be enchanted by the Scala di Santa Maria del Monte, a majestic staircase adorned with an array of colorful ceramic tiles. Delve deeper into the town's artistic heritage as you explore its workshops and boutiques, where skilled artisans craft exquisite pottery.

As the day unfolds, continue today's journey to the ancient city of Syracuse where you'll spend the night.

Tour Syracuse's ancient ruins

Syracuse

Day 7: Tour Syracuse's ancient ruins

Today, journey through time as you explore the archaeological park of Neapolis in Syracuse, where ancient Greek and Roman ruins whisper tales of civilizations past. Wander amidst the remnants of grandeur, including the impressive Greek Theater, the enigmatic Ear of Dionysius, and the sacred Altar of Hieron.

As the day transitions into evening, stroll along the picturesque Lungomare di Levante promenade, soaking in the coastal ambiance as you enjoy the vibrant colors of the setting sun.

Indulge in Modica's chocolate delights

Syracuse - Modica - Syracuse

Day 8: Indulge in Modica's chocolate delights

After a hearty breakfast voyage to Ragusa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its resplendent Baroque architecture. Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of the historic center of Ragusa Ibla, where timeless landmarks such as the Palazzo Cosentini await your admiration.

Continuing your journey, arrive in the picturesque town of Modica, renowned for its delectable chocolate delights. Delve into the artistry of chocolate-making with a guided tour of a local chocolate factory, where you'll uncover the secrets of this beloved treat and indulge in sampling various exquisite varieties.

As the afternoon unfolds, lose yourself in the charm of Modica's quaint boutiques and specialty shops before returning to Syracuse for an overnight stay.

Baroque charms & winery adventures

Syracuse - Avola - Syracuse

Day 9: Baroque charms & winery adventures

Today, explore the lesser-known sights of Sicily. First, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the baroque village of Noto, where the elegance of its architecture and the charm of its streets transport you to another era. Next, journey to Avola, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the picturesque countryside and visit some of the area's renowned wineries. As the day draws to a close return to Syracuse for an overnight stay.

Day 10

Syracuse - Mount Etna - Taormina

Day 10:

One of your trip's top highlights is on the menu for today: an unforgettable excursion to Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano! Here, take a guided tour led by knowledgeable experts who will illuminate the geological wonders of the volcano, leading you through crater zones, lava fields, and volcanic caves.

Following this adventure, visit a local winery nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna. Here, indulge in tastings of volcanic wines crafted from grapes cultivated in the fertile volcanic soil.

After a morning of thrills, sit down for lunch in a country house, then continue to the charming hilltop town of Taormina, known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Overnight in Taormina.

Tranquil delights in Taormina

Taormina

Day 11: Tranquil delights in Taormina

After yesterday's packed program, you'll no doubt relish taking things a little slower in picturesque Taormina.

Meander along its charming narrow streets and discover iconic landmarks such as the ancient Greek Theater and the grand Palazzo Corvaja. As the afternoon unfolds, retreat to the sun-kissed shores of Taormina's beaches, where you can bask in the warmth of the Sicilian sun and dip into the refreshing waters of the Ionian Sea.

As evening descends, dine at a waterfront restaurant in Taormina, enjoying fresh seafood dishes and watching the breathtaking sunset over the sea.

Goodbye, Italy!

Taormina

Day 12: Goodbye, Italy!

Today, you'll sadly bid farewell to Sicily, as you drive from Taormina to Catania Airport for your departure flight home. 

Map

Sicily's heritage, cuisine & coastal beauty
Italy - 12 Days
from US$7,290 per person

from US$7,290 per person

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