Day 1: Arrival and Transfer
Upon arriving in Catania (be it at the airport or port), you'll be transferred and checked into your designated hotel. Before dinner, there will be a meet-and-greet with the guide/tour leader, accompanied by a welcome cocktail and an introduction to the tour. Later, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, indulging in the authentic flavors of Sicilian cuisine. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Catania and Syracuse
After breakfast, we'll tour Catania, taking in its historic center. Our journey begins at the bustling fish market, followed by a visit to the baroque Sant ’Agata Cathedral. You'll have some free time to immerse yourself in the city's ambiance. Next, we head to the picturesque Syracuse. We'll start at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to the Greek Theater, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Latomia del Paradiso. Later, we'll explore Syracuse and its renowned peninsula, Ortigia, with its historic center and the enchanting Fonte Aretusa spring. A highlight is the grand Cathedral, ingeniously built within the Temple of Athena, showcasing a distinctive baroque facade. After some free time for lunch, we'll continue to Noto, one of Sicily's most beautiful baroque cities, located on a hill overlooking the southern coast. Noto is a treasure trove of baroque art, often referred to as the "stone garden" with its elaborately decorated palaces, imposing churches, and lush gardens. Notably, the Church of San Carlo, the Cathedral of San Nicolò, and the Church of Santa Maria dell' Ammiraglio are among Noto's most captivating baroque gems. Finally, we'll check into our hotel, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Ragusa, Modica, and Marzamemi
The day begins in Ragusa, a charming city offering an authentic Sicilian experience, especially with its UNESCO World Heritage site, Ragusa Ibla. Wander its narrow-cobbled streets, marveling at historic buildings, baroque churches, and the commanding Cathedral of San Giorgio. Relive the magic of Andrea Camilleri's novels and the beauty of this ancient city, as you trace the steps of the famed Commissioner Montalbano. Our journey then takes us to Modica, renowned for its chocolate. We'll visit the esteemed a chocolate factory in the heart of the town. Here, you can savor artisanal chocolates, crafted with high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The tour then moves to Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village known for its harbor and pristine beaches. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, savor a delicious seafood meal at a local restaurant, or stroll along the harbor admiring the moored fishing boats. The day concludes with a return to Noto for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Caltagirone, Piazza Armerina, and the Valley of the Temples
After breakfast, we'll set off for Caltagirone, renowned for its ceramic production and the Santa Maria del Monte Staircase. This 142-step staircase, adorned with hand-decorated tiles, leads up to the church of the same name. Here, you can marvel at the vibrant colors of local ceramics displayed in the city's shops and artisan workshops. Our journey continues to Piazza Armerina, home to the Villa Romana del Casale, one of Sicily's most significant archaeological sites. This villa boasts Roman-era mosaics covering approximately 3,500 square meters, depicting scenes of daily life, animals, celebrations, and battles. After a hearty lunch at a renowned local farmhouse, we'll head to the Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily's most iconic archaeological sites. Here, you can admire the remnants of ancient Greek temples, including the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Concordia. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Valley of the Temples stands as a testament to the wonders of the ancient world. Our day concludes in Agrigento with dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5: Marsala, Erice, and Palermo
Post breakfast, we'll journey to Marsala, not only famous for its wine but also as the landing site of Garibaldi's Thousand. We'll pass through Mozia and the captivating salt pans. Here, we'll tour a winery and savor the renowned Marsala wine, crafted from quality grapes under expert vintners. Our adventure continues to Erice, an ancient medieval town perched 760 meters high. This enchanting town will captivate you with its castle, medieval alleyways, and breathtaking views. We won't miss the chance to taste "ericini," traditional sweets made from the finest quality almond paste. Lunch will be served at a local trattoria, offering regional delicacies. The day wraps up with our arrival in Palermo, where we'll check into our hotel, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 6: Palermo, Cefalù, and Catania
Starting with a hearty breakfast, our first stop is the magnificent Duomo and the Cloister of Monreale, celebrated for their exquisite Byzantine and Arab mosaics, representing some of the finest Norman artworks in Sicily. We then head to Palermo, visiting the Cathedral and the Martorana Church, renowned for its 12th-century mosaics and frescoes. We'll also could explore the famous market, sampling iconic street foods like arancini, sfincioni, panelle, pane cunzato, and other local delights. From June 15th to September 15th, instead of free time downtown, we'll visit Mondello beach for a refreshing break. Our journey continues to Cefalù, a picturesque coastal town with a charming medieval heart. Here, we'll visit the Norman-style cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, boasting a stunning golden mosaic of Christ Pantocrator. Depending on the season, we'll enjoy a break with "granita" and brioche or other Sicilian treats like cannoli. There'll be free time to explore the town and its beach, located right opposite the historic center. In the late afternoon, we'll proceed to Catania, check into our hotel, dine at a local trattoria, and settle in for the night.
Day 7: Etna and Taormina
As our incredible journey nears its end, today promises the highlight everyone eagerly anticipates. After breakfast, we'll embark on an exploration of the majestic Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano. This 3,350-meter giant, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, spans a vast area of 59,000 hectares. Etna Park is renowned for its diverse and abundant flora, housing protected species that make it a natural treasure. Today, the volcano is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, pistachio trees, hazelnut trees, and orchards, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage and the presence of local varieties. Upon reaching the Sapienza Refuge, breathtaking panoramas await. Our journey continues to the Silvestri Craters, volcanic cones dating back to 1888, now surrounded by more recent lava flows. The sight of numerous craters offers an unparalleled spectacle. During the morning, you'll also have the chance to sample local artisanal honey and other regional specialties. Next, we head to Taormina, celebrated for its marine beauty, historic monuments, and awe-inspiring views of the sea with a privileged vantage point of Etna. A visit to the captivating Greco-Roman theater promises to be unforgettable, offering panoramic views over the Gulf of Naxos. Enjoy free time wandering the charming medieval alleyways of the center and shopping from a plethora of stores showcasing the island's finest crafts. Lace, ceramics, coral jewelry, lava stone carvings, perfumes, sweets, and much more await! The day concludes with a scenic drive along the stunning Riviera of the Cyclops before returning to our hotel in Catania. Dinner will be served at a local eatery, followed by an overnight stay.
Day 8: Transfer and End of Services
Departure to the airport or port for your return journey, taking with you unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of the beautiful Sicily. End of services.
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