Best of Sicily – Small Group

Having had breakfast, you’ll be met in the hotel lobby by your ‘mafia’ guide, who will begin the tour by taking you to the mountain villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro. It was here where Michael and Appolonia fell in love, and many other scenes of the famous Godfather-trilogy were filmed. Your guide will share tales of the mafia, and the movie genre that that it inspired. Preceded by an invigorating aperitif; lunch is then taken on the terrace of Vitelli – perhaps the most famous bar in all of Sicily – comprising an aromatic array of seasonal dishes. There is time for a well-earned ‘pennichella’ (an Italian siesta), in preparation for a night-time tour of vibrant Taormina. TAORMINA WALKING TOUR & GREEK THEATRE VISIT After a relaxing start, you will be led by your guide to the various charms of Taormina; its rich culture unfolding at a gentle pace. Influenced by the successive occupation by the Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Byzantines, and the Normans, yet always loyal to the Sicilian heritage; Taormina is a tapestry of fascinating cultural fusion – from the architecture, to the nature, to the history – you will be enthralled as you explore the ancient alleyways, hearing tales of the fascinating Sicilian people and their unique. The night concludes with visit to the amazing ruins of an ancient Greek Theatre. Overnight in Taormina.

Today’s adventure starts with a visit to one of the worlds’ most active volcanoes – Mount Etna. From the base camp at the Sapienza Refuge – at a lofty 1,900 meters above sea-level – you will set off to explore the extinct Silvestri Craters. Explore the ancient lava flows and get a few memorable selfies. You will also have the exciting option to visit the authorized crater area (optional); accessible by cable-car, Jeep, and finally on a 45-minute walk; under the competent leadership of a qualified, English-speaking Alpine guide, who will bring this seemingly inhospitable lunar terrain to life. Following this exhilaration, the pace slows considerably as you head downslope to a scenic winery, with its exclusive volcanic wines and organically grown foods to tempt your taste buds by way of a wine-pairing and a light lunch – as part of a guided visit to the estate and its cellars. Your senses now thoroughly satisfied, you’ll return to the hotel and a free evening to further explore Taormina. Overnight in Taormina

Your day starts with a sumptuous breakfast at 09h00, after which you will be met by your driver who will chauffeur you from the hotel entrance to your next destination: noble Noto. This little-known UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure chest of the Baroque-style. While casually strolling past the opulent architecture, your local guide will illuminate its history, and invite you to sample the mouth-watering Modica chocolate. Having had your appetite stimulated, it is now time to head down to the quaint Sicilian fishing village of Marzamemi, where you will enjoy a lunch of fresh fish, served to you at a traditional family taverna. Replete, you will then be taken to your next hotel in Syracuse, with time enough to relax in the romance of this renowned home of ancient Roman ruins. Overnight in Syracuse.

The day begins by meeting your guide, to commence a 2-hour walking tour of Ortigia – the Old Town of Syracuse. You’ll marvel at the majestic Temple of Apollo ruins, and stroll down the social hub of Ortigia – the vibrant Via Cavour; meeting place of aristocrats and artists. En route to the Jewish-district, which dates back to the 3rd Century BC, you will pass the Archimede Fountain. Next you will be treated to the splendor of the Duomo Square; home of the Church of St Lucy and the famed Duomo, hearing many fascinating facts your guide will share as you experience the fascinating local history and tradition. For the rest of the day, you will be able to explore Syracuse at your leisure. Overnight in Syracuse.

It’s ‘arrivederci’ to Syracuse, and on to Palermo, via the next UNESCO World Heritage Site – the historic Temple Valley. Some 2-hours from Syracuse, from which your driver will collect you, you’ll get to stretch your legs on a 2-hour guided tour of these vast archaeological ruins; one of the top attractions in all of Sicily. This is followed by a delicious lunch at a traditional taverna – before continuing to your hotel in Palermo. Time now to relax with a free evening in the Sicilian capital. Overnight in Palermo.

Your final full day on tour will start off with meeting your expert local guide at 10h00, for a 2-hour walking tour of the capital city’s authentic Palermitan highlights. These will include the ancient cathedral, the Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and the magnificent Martorana Church. Share a glass of Palermo’s fine wine with your guide, before bidding farewell; to spend the rest of the day enjoying Palermo at your leisure. Overnight in Palermo.

After breakfast you will be transferred to the Palermo Airport.