9 daysItaly
In Syracuse, you step inside Paradise Quarry’s Ear of Dionysius with a Local Specialist and call into the cool limestone grotto, where your voice can return as many as 16 times. At Palermo’s Palatine Chapel, you look up at gold mosaics gleaming across the walls and ceiling, surrounded by centuries of intricate craft. Continue west past salt pans and old windmills before tasting Marsala wine in the town that shares its name. High above the Ionian Sea in Taormina, you explore the cliffside Greek theater with a Local Specialist and, on a clear day, look towards Mount Etna beyond the ancient stone.
Relax and settle in before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant.
Discover Palermo on a walking tour featuring a visit to the stunning 12th-century Palatine Chapel with a Local Specialist. This afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring Palermo Cathedral, a fascinating site with its unique blend of architectural styles reflecting centuries of history.
Nestled along its crescent-shaped coastline, Trapani is embraced by the Mediterranean Sea. Discover the age-old tradition of salt production when you visit the colorful salt pans and an ancient stone windmill during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to see where sea water is transformed into salt crystals. Later, enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a local winery and a sit-down meal with your fellow traveling companions.
Travel along the southern coast of Sicily en route to Agrigento. In Agrigento, explore the Valley of the Temples with a Local Specialist. Recognized by UNESCO, these temples are exceptional examples of ancient Greek architecture. Marvel at the imposing Temple of Concordia and the cliff-top Temple of Juno, both overlooking the sea. Reflect on this unforgettable day with your fellow travelers over dinner at the hotel, sharing insights and experiences.
Travel inland to the Villa Romana del Casale, a luxurious Roman villa renowned for its rich and intricate mosaics. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1997, showcases the opulence of ancient Rome. Continue to Ragusa and explore the labyrinthine alleyways of Ragusa Ibla with your Local Specialist. The town, with origins dating back to the Bronze Age, was once inhabited by the Sicels tribe, who gave their name to Sicily. Admire the remarkable Sicilian Baroque architecture that has earned Ragusa UNESCO recognition. In the evening, savor the rich flavors of locally sourced ingredients with a delicious Farm-to-Table dinner at a charming local restaurant.
Enjoy a Relaxed Start this morning or join an Optional Experience to the town of Noto. Later, explore the town of Modica, rebuilt after the 17th-century earthquake, and discover its artisanal techniques used to create the town's celebrated handmade chocolate.
Discover Syracuse through your choice. Opt for sightseeing with your Local Specialist at Syracuse’s Paradise Quarry, home to the unique Ear of Dionysius, an ear-shaped grotto with remarkable acoustics. Next, visit the impressive Greek theater, carved from solid rock, and one of the largest of the ancient world. Alternatively, take time to explore the atmospheric Old City on the island of Ortigia, a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with palaces. This historic area is where the famed mathematician Archimedes famously ran through the streets, exclaiming 'Eureka!' Continue your journey along Sicily’s picturesque Ionian Riviera to the charming resort of Giardini Naxos or Marina Forza d'Agrò (departure dependent).
Your hotel faces east, offering early risers a glimpse of why D.H. Lawrence dubbed this 'The Dawn Coast of Europe'. After breakfast, consider an Optional Experience through the vineyards to Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Journey to the charming old town of Taormina, perched on Mount Tauro with views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. With your Local Specialist, visit the ancient Greek theater, set on a cliff and open to the sky. Sit and absorb the breath-taking view through the crumbling arches to Mount Etna. Stroll along the elegant Corso Umberto and enjoy panoramic views from Piazza IX Aprile. Celebrate your time in Sicily with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Sicilian cuisine with exquisite Italian wines.
Your Sicily tour has now come to an end. Appreciate views of Mount Etna on your way to the airport.
Palermo, Italy
2 nights
Housed in a striking early 20th-century building, this boutique hotel offers Art Nouveau charm in the heart of Palermo. Elegant interiors and attentive service ensure a refined and memorable stay.
Hotel Laundry, Room Service, Concierge, Restaurant, Bar
Room Non smoking, Mini fridge, Air Conditioning, Telephone, TV, Wi-Fi
Marsala, Italy
1 night
Situated in Marsala, 50 km from Segesta, Seawater Hotel Bio & Beauty Spa features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. This 4-star hotel offers a bar. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
Hotel Room Service, Pool, Concierge, Business Centre, Bar, Restaurant, Laundry, Spa with pool
Room Wi-Fi
Agrigento, Italy
1 night
Set in landscaped grounds near Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, this four-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool and gardens shaded by mature trees. Its restaurant draws on Sicilian flavours, while the relaxed setting provides a welcome contrast to a day spent exploring the island’s ancient Greek heritage.
Hotel Restaurant, Spa, Pool, Laundry, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Ragusa, Italy
2 nights
A hotel next to the Santa Domenica Valley and crossed by three historic bridges. Located in a strategic position of the city, just a few minutes away on foot to the Municipal Gardens of Villa Margherita.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Concierge, Business Centre, Room Service, Laundry, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Giardini Naxos, Italy
2 nights
Just moments from the seafront in Giardini Naxos, Sant Alphio Garden Hotel & Spa offers a relaxing base on Sicily’s Ionian coast, within easy reach of Taormina, Mount Etna and the Alcantara Valley. Unwind by the pool or in the spa and savour warm Sicilian hospitality after a day of discovery.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Pool, Spa, Room Service
Room Wi-Fi
Hidden Palermo
Paid on tour
Aristocratic Palermo: Dine at Palazzo Francavilla
Paid on tour
Discover Medieval Erice
Paid on tour
Discover Noto, the Capital of Sicilian Baroque
Paid on tour
Dinner In Ragusa
Paid on tour
Dinner in Castelmola
Paid on tour
Mt. Etna, Savoca and The Godfather
Paid on tour
Per person, twin share
