Overview

Its scenery possesses a natural and varied beauty that is truly breathtaking. Rugged, sometimes snow-capped mountains reaching for the sky are interspaced with rich meadows, adorned with wildflowers: during spring and autumn, spectacularly green and lush, yet during the sun-scorched summer, transformed into pastel shades of greens, yellows, and browns.

Citrus and olive groves stretch into the distance, and abundant pine forests lend the air that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma. Punctuated by the occasional farmhouse and Tuscan-like hilltop village, the countryside is remarkably empty. The island has a spectacularly indented coastline, with sweeping bays and blood-red volcanic rocks plunging into the deep blue sea, and snowcapped Mount Etna providing a magnificent backdrop.

Although very much Italian today, Sicily has been at the crossroads of almost every Mediterranean civilization for thousands of years and still retains traces of them all. Founded by the Phoenicians, home to the richest cities in the Greek Empire, Sicily was then conquered over the centuries by the Romans, Moors, Normans, Spanish, French, and finally the Italians. Their magnificent relics include temples, ancient amphitheaters, churches, monasteries, villas, and atmospheric old towns, many of which are the most outstanding of their type in the world and, due to the climate, in a truly remarkable state of preservation.

In character, Sicilians are noticeably different from the rest of Italy, with their Sicilian language still in evidence. The food is wonderful but sometimes a little different from the rest of the country, with nearby African influences present in dishes like couscous.

Our tour visits the finest this remarkable island has to offer.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Sicily

You should arrive at the airport to take your flight to Catania. Upon arrival, a coach will take us to the hotel, where we stay for three nights with breakfast and dinner. Depending on the departure date, you will stay at either the Kaos Hotel or Hotel Baia di Ulisse.

Day 2: Valley of the Temples

This morning, we visit what can truly be described as one of the wonders of the ancient world: the amazing Greek remains in the Valley of the Temples. There are six in total, situated largely on a ridge overlooking the sea. The best-preserved, Temple of Concordia, is almost perfectly intact, resembling the Parthenon in Athens.

We will enjoy a guided tour of the site, with an optional visit to the excellent museum displaying archaeological finds from the area. In the afternoon, we explore Agrigento, a charming town with medieval streets and shady piazzas offering views of the Mediterranean. We return to our hotel to relax.

Day 3: Monreale & Palermo

Today, we travel to the north coast of the island, experiencing dramatic Sicilian landscapes.

• Our first stop is the Benedictine Abbey of Monreale, founded in the 12th century and known for its magnificent medieval mosaics depicting Old Testament stories. The panoramic view from the roof provides breathtaking sights of Palermo, the surrounding countryside, and the sea.
• In the afternoon, we explore Palermo, a city blending Saracen, Norman, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture. Highlights include the Norman Palace, the 10th-century Cathedral, and vibrant markets.

We return to our hotel for dinner.

Day 4: Piazza Armerina & Taormina

Leaving Agrigento, we travel to Piazza Armerina, home to one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries of the last century: the 4th-century Roman villa of Casale. The villa boasts the largest collection of ancient mosaics ever discovered, illustrating the luxurious lifestyle of Roman aristocracy.

After a guided tour, we continue to Taormina, one of Sicilys most picturesque towns, where we stay for four nights with breakfast and dinner.

You can choose from three hotel options:

• Hotel Sant’Alphio Garden (Giardini Naxos) near the sea with a private beach and spa.
• Hotel Excelsior Palace (Taormina) a historic hotel with breathtaking views.
• Hotel Baia Taormina a cliffside retreat overlooking the stunning Bay of Taormina.

Day 5: Free Day in Taormina

Today is yours to explore Taormina, a charming medieval town with elegant boutiques, delightful piazzas, and wonderful gardens. The towns highlight is its ancient Greek theatre, offering spectacular views of Mount Etna and the sea.

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, sample local delicacies, or take in the sights at your own pace.

Day 6: Siracusa

We take a scenic drive to Siracusa, one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world.

• The city’s most famous resident was Archimedes, who discovered the principle of displacement while in the bath and famously exclaimed “Eureka!”.
• Explore the Baroque Cathedral, which incorporates an ancient temple, and the Bosco Palace.
• The old port area is full of character, with colorful fishing boats and bustling markets.

You will have the option to take a boat trip around the bay before returning to the hotel.

Day 7: Mount Etna

Today, we visit Mount Etna, Europes highest and most active volcano.

• As we ascend, the landscape transforms into a dramatic expanse of black volcanic rock and eerie, otherworldly formations.
• Upon reaching the cable car station, you will have the opportunity (subject to conditions) to take a cable car and jeep tour to higher altitudes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding region.

We return to the hotel in the afternoon.

Day 8: Return Flight

At the appropriate time, a coach will transfer us to the airport for our return flight home after an incredible tour of Sicily.