Magical Sicily

You will arrive in Palermo and make your way to your hotel. That night, you will have dinner in the hotel and get some rest for the activities that are planned for the following days.

After having breakfast at the hotel, you will go on a morning excursion to Monreale, that has recently been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Monreale is known for its almonds, olive oil, citrus fruits, and its beautiful Norman architecture. You will visit the impressive Monreale Cathedral and have the opportunity to shop for local delicacies and souvenirs. You will then return to Palermo and go on a walking tour of the city. You will explore the Old Town and learn about Palermo’s 3,000-year history while seeing sights such as Palermo Cathedral. You will have the chance to go inside the cathedral and admire its arches, cupolas, and mosaics, which reflect the various cultures that have influenced the island. In the late afternoon, you will have some free time before returning to your hotel for dinner. You will spend the night at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, you will travel to Erice, a medieval village located on the side of Monte San Giuliano. Many people believe that the village has remained unchanged since the sixth century, and its winding lanes are perfect for a leisurely morning walk. You will then continue to the Saline, an extraordinary lagoon where history, nature, and archaeology come together to offer unique and charming experiences. Afterwards, you will travel to Marsala, a region known for its wine. You will participate in a sensory experience by visiting a traditional tavern and tasting regional products during a light but memorable lunch. You will then return to your coach and travel to Agrigento, your final destination of the day. You will visit the Ancient Greek ruins at the Valley of Temples (entrance included), a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will learn about the archaeological relics, including the Classical Temple of Concord, the Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Jupiter, one of the largest Doric-style buildings. In the evening, you will check into your hotel, have dinner, and stay overnight.

After having breakfast at the hotel, you will travel to Piazza Armerina, a charming and historic town in Sicily. You will visit the Villa Romana del Casale to see the world’s largest and most complex Roman mosaics, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mosaics, which cover 3,500 square meters, depict mythological scenes and portrayals of daily life. You will then travel to Ragusa and visit the charming historical center of “Ibla,” which is known for its beautiful Baroque palaces and churches. Together with seven other cities in the Val di Noto, Ragusa is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will see the old gate of San Giorgio, the Giardini Iblei, and Piazza Pola, where you will visit the Church of San Giuseppe. You will also be able to admire the elegant Cathedral of San Giorgio, the Church of the Souls in Purgatory, and the magnificent Cosentini palace, which is one of the most interesting Late Baroque palaces in Sicily. In the evening, you will arrive at your hotel, have dinner, and stay overnight.

After having a good breakfast at the hotel, you will travel to Noto, a picturesque fishing town known for its stately Baroque architecture. You will visit the Cathedral of San Nicolò, which has recently been restored after an earthquake, and take a leisurely walk through the town center. You will then continue along the south coast to Syracuse, a city located on the southeastern tip of Sicily. You will visit the “Parco Archeologico della Neapolis,” Syracuse’s famous archaeological area, which is home to a vast collection of Greek and Roman ruins from all over Sicily. You will go inside to see impressive landmarks such as the Greek Theater, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Ear of Dionysius, an artificial limestone cave. After the visit, you will cross one of the city’s bridges to visit the island of Ortygia, the most ancient part of Syracuse, which is home to a wealth of Baroque churches and medieval palaces. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Taormina, check in to your hotel, and enjoy dinner.

After having breakfast at the hotel, you will head to Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe and the highest mountain in Italy. You will learn about volcanic activity and marvel at the old lava fields and black magma rock that make up Etna’s landscape. If the weather permits, you will have the chance to climb to the summit (1800 m). After that, you will return to Taormina, a beautiful and romantic town located on Mount Tauro. You will return to Taormina in the afternoon and have the rest of the day to spend at leisure. You will have dinner and stay overnight at the hotel.

On your final day, you will have breakfast before the tour comes to an end. Options to book extra nights in Taormina.