Grand Tour of Sicily: 14 Days
Discover Sicily on a 14-day guided tour from Catania, exploring Palermo, Cefalù, ancient Greek sites, the Baroque towns of the south-east, Mount Etna and Taormina, with local food and wine experiences.
Highlights
- Sicily's Extraordinary Archaeological Heritage
- Norman Cities and Baroque Treasures
- Mount Etna, Taormina and Sicilian Flavours
Overview
Beginning in Catania, the tour takes you across the island to Cefalù and Palermo, where Norman architecture, lively historic markets and centuries of cultural exchange reveal Sicily's distinctive identity. Discover the magnificent mosaics of Monreale Cathedral before travelling west to explore the ancient Greek temple of Segesta, the medieval streets of Erice and the salt pans surrounding Marsala.
Western Sicily offers a fascinating combination of archaeology, coastal scenery and local traditions. Explore the Phoenician heritage of Mozia, discover the wine-making culture of Marsala and visit the impressive archaeological remains of Selinunte. Continue to Agrigento, where the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples preserves some of the Mediterranean's finest examples of ancient Greek architecture.
The journey then leads inland to Piazza Armerina and the extraordinary Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, before entering the Baroque heart of south-eastern Sicily. Discover the historic streets and elegant churches of Ragusa Ibla and Modica, including an opportunity to taste Modica's traditional chocolate.
In Syracuse, explore the ancient Greek heritage of the Neapolis Archaeological Park and the island of Ortigia, where historic monuments, Baroque squares and waterfront streets reflect the city's remarkable Mediterranean past.
The final part of the journey reveals the dramatic landscapes of Mount Etna and the beauty of Sicily's eastern coast. Experience the volcanic scenery of Etna, enjoy time in Taormina and discover its celebrated Ancient Theatre overlooking the Ionian Sea. An optional excursion to the Aeolian Islands offers an additional opportunity to explore Sicily's island landscapes.
Throughout the tour, discover regional food traditions through selected tastings, including Marsala wines, traditional almond sweets in Erice, Modica chocolate and local specialities associated with Mount Etna.
With 13 nights across eight
Day by day
- 1
Day 1
Arrival in Catania
Welcome to Sicily!
Upon arrival at Catania Fontanarossa Airport, meet your local representative and transfer to your hotel in Catania, according to the arrival arrangements included in the tour.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy some free time to settle in or take a short introductory walk through the surrounding neighbourhood.
In the evening, meet your tour escort and fellow travellers for a welcome cocktail and an introduction to the journey ahead.
Enjoy your first included dinner, featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine.CataniaDinnerCatania - 2
Day 2
Catania and Cefalù: Baroque Heritage and the Northern Coast
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Catania, a city shaped by centuries of history and the dramatic presence of Mount Etna.
Discover the historic centre, with its distinctive Baroque architecture and elegant squares built from volcanic stone and pale limestone.
Admire Piazza Duomo and the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, dedicated to the city's patron saint, and experience the lively atmosphere of the traditional fish market, subject to its opening schedule.
Leave Catania and travel towards Sicily's northern coast, crossing the island to reach the beautiful seaside town of Cefalù.
Explore its medieval streets and admire the magnificent Norman Cathedral, celebrated for its Byzantine mosaics and recognised as part of Sicily's UNESCO-listed Arab-Norman heritage.
Enjoy free time to discover the historic centre, relax by the waterfront or sample a traditional Sicilian granita or brioche during the included tasting break.
Continue to Palermo in the late afternoon.
Check into your hotel for a two-night stay, followed by dinner.Catania, CefalùBreakfast, DinnerPalermo - 3
Day 3
Palermo: Arab-Norman Architecture and Historic Markets
After breakfast, dedicate the day to Palermo, a city where Arab, Norman, Byzantine and Baroque influences reveal Sicily's extraordinary cultural history.
Explore the historic centre, beginning with Palermo Cathedral, an architectural landmark whose different styles reflect centuries of change.
Continue towards the Norman Palace and the magnificent Palatine Chapel, celebrated for its golden Byzantine mosaics and elaborate decorative craftsmanship.
Walk through the historic streets towards Quattro Canti and Piazza Pretoria, discovering the monumental squares, churches and noble palaces that characterise the heart of Palermo.
Experience the lively atmosphere of one of the city's traditional markets, where colourful stalls, regional specialities and local food traditions offer a glimpse into everyday Sicilian life.
Lunch is at leisure.
The afternoon allows further exploration of Palermo's artistic heritage, with visits arranged according to the confirmed programme and monument opening times.
Return to your accommodation before enjoying your included dinner.PalermoBreakfast, DinnerPalermo - 4
Day 4
Monreale and Segesta: Norman Mosaics and Greek Temples
After breakfast, depart for Monreale, overlooking Palermo and the fertile Conca d'Oro valley.
Visit its magnificent Cathedral, one of Sicily's most remarkable Norman monuments, renowned for the extraordinary golden mosaics covering its interior.
Discover the rich artistic heritage created through the collaboration of Byzantine, Islamic and Western craftsmen during the Norman period.
Continue west towards Segesta, one of the most evocative archaeological sites in Sicily.
Explore its impressive Doric temple, standing in a beautiful rural landscape surrounded by rolling hills. The ancient theatre may also be included according to the confirmed visiting arrangements and available time.
Lunch is at leisure.
In the afternoon, continue towards Marsala, a town with a long Mediterranean history and an internationally recognised wine-making tradition.
Check into your hotel for the first of two nights.
Dinner and overnight in Marsala.Monreale, Segesta,MarsalaBreakfast, DinnerMarsala - 5
Day 5
Mozia, Marsala Wines and Medieval Erice
After breakfast, travel to the Stagnone Lagoon near Marsala, a fascinating coastal landscape of shallow waters, traditional salt pans and historic windmills.
Take a boat to Mozia, the ancient Phoenician settlement on San Pantaleo Island, and explore its archaeological heritage.
Visit the Whitaker Museum, home to important discoveries from the island's history, including the celebrated Youth of Mozia.
Return to the mainland and continue to a local winery in the Marsala area, where you will discover the region's wine-making traditions and enjoy an included tasting of selected wines.
Lunch is at leisure.
In the afternoon, travel towards Erice, a beautifully preserved medieval town overlooking Trapani and the western Sicilian coastline.
Walk through its atmospheric streets, admire the historic stone buildings and enjoy panoramic views towards the salt pans and the Egadi Islands.
During your visit, enjoy an included tasting of traditional almond-based sweets, a speciality associated with Erice's pastry-making heritage.
Return to Marsala for dinner and overnight.Mozia,Marsala,EriceBreakfast, DinnerMarsala - 6
Day 6
Selinunte and the Cave di Cusa: Sicily's Greek Past
After breakfast, leave Marsala and travel along Sicily's south-western coast towards Selinunte, one of the largest archaeological parks in the Mediterranean.
Explore the remains of this once-powerful Greek city, admiring its monumental temples, ancient urban structures and remarkable setting overlooking the sea.
Discover the architectural achievements of the Greek settlers and the history of a city that played an important role in the ancient Mediterranean world.
Continue to the Cave di Cusa, the historic quarries from which enormous blocks of limestone were extracted for the construction of Selinunte's temples.
Here, unfinished column drums and traces of ancient stoneworking reveal the techniques and organisation involved in monumental Greek architecture.
Lunch is at leisure.
In the afternoon, travel towards Agrigento and check into your hotel.
Enjoy your included dinner and overnight in the Agrigento area.Selinunte,Cave di CusaBreakfast, DinnerAgrigento - 7
Day 7
Valley of the Temples and the Sicilian Countryside
After breakfast, visit the magnificent Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, one of the most important archaeological landscapes in the Mediterranean and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the remains of ancient Akragas, admiring the imposing Doric temples set among olive trees, almond groves and the distinctive Sicilian countryside.
Discover the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, together with other significant monuments that reveal the history and achievements of the ancient city.
Lunch is at leisure.
In the afternoon, leave the coast and travel inland towards Piazza Armerina, crossing agricultural landscapes, traditional villages and the rolling hills of central Sicily.
Arrive at your countryside accommodation and enjoy some time to relax in the peaceful rural surroundings.
Dinner featuring traditional Sicilian dishes and overnight in the Piazza Armerina area.Agrigento, Piazza armerinaBreakfast, DinnerPiazza Armerina - 8
Day 8
Villa Romana del Casale and the Baroque Town of Ragusa
After breakfast, depart for the magnificent Villa Romana del Casale, one of Sicily's most extraordinary archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore this remarkable late Roman residence, celebrated for its exceptionally preserved floor mosaics depicting mythology, hunting scenes, daily life and athletic activities.
Discover the craftsmanship and artistic sophistication of the Roman world through some of the finest mosaics surviving from antiquity.
Following the visit, continue towards the south-eastern part of Sicily, entering the landscape of the Val di Noto, renowned for its distinctive Late Baroque architecture.
Lunch is at leisure.
Arrive in Ragusa, a town dramatically positioned among the limestone hills of the Hyblaean region.
Depending on the arrival time, enjoy an introductory view of Ragusa Ibla and its characteristic historic skyline before checking into your hotel.
Dinner and the first of two overnight stays in Ragusa.Breakfast, DinnerRagusa - 9
Day 9
Ragusa Ibla and Modica: Baroque Architecture and Chocolate
After breakfast, discover Ragusa Ibla, the historic heart of Ragusa and one of the finest examples of Sicily's Late Baroque heritage.
Walk through its picturesque streets and elegant squares, admiring richly decorated palaces, monumental stairways and historic churches.
Discover the magnificent Cathedral of San Giorgio, a masterpiece associated with architect Rosario Gagliardi, and appreciate the distinctive urban landscape that makes Ragusa Ibla one of the most atmospheric towns in south-eastern Sicily.
Continue to Modica, a historic town built across the slopes of a deep valley and renowned for both its architectural heritage and traditional chocolate-making.
Explore the historic centre, admiring the Church of San Pietro and the town's elaborate Baroque architecture.
During the visit, enjoy an included tasting of traditional Modica chocolate, celebrated for its distinctive grainy texture and characteristic preparation method.
Lunch is at leisure.
Return to Ragusa for dinner and overnight.Ragusa,ModicaBreakfast, DinnerRagusa - 10
Day 10
Syracuse: Ancient Greek Heritage and Ortigia
After breakfast, leave Ragusa and travel towards Syracuse, one of the most important cities of the ancient Greek Mediterranean.
Begin your exploration at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, where the impressive Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre and Ear of Dionysius reveal different chapters of the city's history.
Discover the importance of ancient Syracuse, once a powerful centre of Greek culture, philosophy and commerce.
Continue to Ortigia, the beautiful island that forms the historic heart of Syracuse.
Walk through its atmospheric streets, discovering the ancient Temple of Apollo, the elegant Piazza Duomo and Syracuse Cathedral, built around the remains of a Greek temple dedicated to Athena.
Continue towards the waterfront and the Fountain of Arethusa, associated with one of the city's best-known classical myths.
Lunch is at leisure, with time to enjoy the local atmosphere and traditional specialities.
In the afternoon, check into your hotel for a two-night stay.
Dinner and overnight in Syracuse.SiracusaBreakfast, DinnerSiracusa - 11
Day 11
Mount Etna: Volcanic Landscapes and the Journey to Giardini Naxos
After breakfast, check out of your hotel in Syracuse and depart towards Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano and one of Sicily's most extraordinary natural landmarks.
Travel through the changing landscapes of the volcano, where vineyards, orchards and traditional villages gradually give way to ancient lava flows and dramatic volcanic terrain.
Reach the visitor area around Rifugio Sapienza, at approximately 1,900 metres above sea level, subject to weather conditions and local safety restrictions.
Discover the fascinating volcanic landscape, with opportunities to admire the accessible craters and surrounding lava formations.
Travellers wishing to explore higher elevations may choose an optional excursion by cable car and specialised 4x4 vehicles, subject to availability, volcanic conditions and additional charges.
During the excursion, enjoy an included tasting of local honey, one of the traditional specialities of the Etna region.
Lunch is at leisure.
In the afternoon, continue towards Giardini Naxos, a seaside resort on Sicily's Ionian coast, located close to Taormina.
Check into your hotel for a three-night stay and enjoy some time to relax.
Dinner and overnight in Giardini Naxos.EtnaBreakfast, DinnerGiardini Naxos Area - 12
Day 12
Leisure in Giardini Naxos or Optional Aeolian Islands Excursion
After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure in Giardini Naxos, with time to relax by the sea, explore the waterfront or discover the cafés and restaurants of this charming coastal resort.
Alternatively, join an optional full-day excursion to the Aeolian Islands, one of Sicily's most remarkable volcanic archipelagos and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Depart early in the morning for Milazzo, where you will board a boat for an excursion to Lipari and Vulcano, subject to the confirmed sailing schedule and weather conditions.
Discover Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, with its picturesque historic centre, traditional streets and characteristic Mediterranean atmosphere.
Enjoy time to explore independently before continuing to Vulcano, known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and distinctive coastal scenery.
Depending on the excursion programme, enjoy free time to discover the island and admire its natural surroundings.
Lunch is at leisure.
In the afternoon, return by boat to Milazzo and continue by road to Giardini Naxos.
Travellers not joining the optional excursion may spend the day independently in Giardini Naxos.
The Aeolian Islands excursion is not included in the tour price and must be booked separately. Operation is subject to sea conditions, availability and the arrangements confirmed for the travel dates.
Dinner and overnight in Giardini Naxos.Eolian IslandsBreakfast, DinnerGiardini Naxos area - 13
Day 13
Taormina: Ancient Theatre and Mediterranean Elegance
After breakfast, depart for nearby Taormina, one of Sicily's most celebrated historic towns, beautifully positioned above the Ionian Sea.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the magnificent Ancient Theatre, one of the island's most important archaeological monuments.
Originally built during the Greek period and subsequently enlarged by the Romans, the theatre is renowned for its remarkable architecture and spectacular setting, with views towards Mount Etna and the coastline.
Continue through Taormina's elegant historic centre, strolling along Corso Umberto, the town's main pedestrian street, lined with historic buildings, traditional shops, cafés and picturesque squares.
Admire Piazza IX Aprile, one of Taormina's most beautiful panoramic viewpoints, and discover the architectural character of this charming hilltop town.
Lunch is at leisure.
Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore independently, browse the local boutiques or relax at one of the town's cafés.
Return to Giardini Naxos for your final included dinner, an opportunity to share memories of your journey through Sicily.
Overnight in Giardini Naxos.TaorminaBreakfast, DinnerGiardini Naxos area - 14
Day 14
Arrivederci Sicilia!
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
After fourteen days discovering Sicily's ancient civilisations, Norman monuments, Baroque towns, volcanic landscapes and culinary traditions, your Grand Tour of Sicily comes to an end.
Departure from Giardini Naxos according to your onward travel arrangements. Any transfer to Catania Fontanarossa Airport will follow the services expressly confirmed in your travel documents.
Arrivederci Sicilia!Breakfast
Accommodation
A modern four-star hotel in central Catania, conveniently located near Via Etnea and the city's main shopping streets.
A four-star hotel in central Palermo, conveniently located for exploring the city's historic monuments, shops and restaurants.
A centrally located hotel in Marsala, an ideal base for discovering the town's historic centre and wine-making traditions.
A coastal hotel in the Agrigento area, offering a relaxing setting within reach of the Valley of the Temples.
A countryside property near Piazza Armerina, surrounded by rural landscapes and conveniently located for visiting Villa Romana del Casale.
A four-star hotel in Ragusa, providing a comfortable base for discovering the Baroque heritage of Ragusa Ibla and nearby Modica.
A four-star hotel in central Syracuse, conveniently situated for exploring Ortigia and the city's archaeological attractions.
A four-star hotel in Giardini Naxos with outdoor swimming pools, spacious facilities and a convenient location for excursions to Taormina and the Ionian coast.
Included
- 13 nights' accommodation in selected 4-star hotels and countryside accommodation or similar, according to the scheduled itinerary.
- 13 breakfasts at the accommodation.
- 13 three-course dinners featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine.
- Arrival transfer from Catania Airport or port to the first hotel in Catania.
- Grand touring coach transportation for the scheduled group itinerary from Day 2 to Day 13, excluding optional excursions and leisure activities.
- Professional tour escort from the welcome meeting on Day 1 until the completion of the scheduled programme on Day 13.
- Radio-guide headset system for scheduled guided visits.
- Local licensed guides for selected visits, where expressly specified in the confirmed travel arrangements.
- Welcome cocktail and tour briefing in Catania on Day 1.
- Traditional Sicilian granita with brioche or local sweet tasting in Cefalù.
- Traditional almond-based sweets tasting in Erice.
- Visit to a winery in the Marsala area with an included wine tasting.
- Traditional Modica chocolate tasting.
- Local honey tasting in the Mount Etna region.
- Admission tickets to archaeological sites and museums included in the confirmed standard itinerary.
- Local tourist taxes at the scheduled accommodation, where applicable.
Not included
- International and domestic flights.
- Departure transfer from the hotel in Giardini Naxos to Catania Airport, unless expressly included in the confirmed travel proposal.
- Lunches throughout the itinerary.
- Beverages during meals, except those expressly included in the welcome cocktail and scheduled tastings.
- Optional excursion to the Aeolian Islands on Day 12, including transportation to and from Milazzo, boat excursions and any additional activities or admission fees not specified in the optional excursion proposal.
- Optional high-altitude excursion on Mount Etna, including cable car, specialised 4x4 transportation and additional specialist guiding services.
- Additional excursions, visits, food tastings and activities not specifically listed under Services Included.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Personal expenses, tips and gratuities.
- Anything not expressly mentioned under Services Included.
Entrance fees & tickets
- Admission tickets to the archaeological sites and museums expressly included in the standard itinerary are covered by the tour package.
Good to know
- Insider tip
- Enjoy a sunset walk in the historic center of Ortigia.
- Accessibility
- This escorted tour involves regular walking in historic towns, archaeological parks and archaeological areas with uneven surfaces, cobblestones, steps and slopes. Erice, Ragusa Ibla, the Valley of the Temples and parts of Mount Etna may be especially demanding for guests with reduced mobility. Coach accessibility, step-free hotel rooms and alternative visits cannot be assumed. Travellers with mobility requirements should ask Great Sicily for an individual assessment before booking; adaptations depend on the confirmed suppliers and operating arrangements.
- What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for archaeological sites, cobbled historic centres and uneven paths. Seasonal clothing, including sun protection and a hat, plus a warm layer and windproof jacket for Mount Etna. A lightweight rain jacket, reusable water bottle and small day bag. Clothing suitable for visiting churches and religious monuments. Travel documents, personal medication and any essential mobility aids. For optional boat excursions, bring additional protection from wind and sun.
- Important information
- The standard itinerary lasts 14 days and includes 13 nights of accommodation, 13 breakfasts and 13 dinners, subject to the confirmed proposal. Arrival transfer from Catania Airport or port is included according to the arranged arrival details. Departure transfer from the Giardini Naxos/Taormina area to Catania Airport is not included unless expressly confirmed. Scheduled coach and tour escort services operate as specified in the programme; optional excursions and leisure-day transportation are not automatically included. The Aeolian Islands excursion on Day 12 and high-altitude excursions on Mount Etna are optional, paid separately and subject to weather, volcanic and maritime operating conditions. Admission tickets are included only for the sites expressly identified in the confirmed standard itinerary; tickets and reservations must be reconciled with the final quotation. Local tourist taxes are listed as included, where applicable, but the final hotel arrangements should confirm their treatment. The order of visits can change due to opening hours, traffic, weather and local restrictions. Dietary, mobility and other special requirements should be communicated before booking.