Sicily Art Food Wine Exploration

Upon arrival at Catania Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore the city at your own pace. Catania offers a vibrant atmosphere with its historic centre, bustling markets, and distinctive Baroque architecture. Overnight in Catania.

After breakfast, meet your local tour leader who will accompany you throughout the day. We depart for Palermo, stopping first in the charming town of Tindari. Here, you can take a leisurely walk with the tour leader through the historic centre, discovering its quaint streets and atmosphere. Continuing on, we visit the medieval village of Cefalù, renowned for its narrow lanes, rich heritage, and striking architecture. You will have time to explore the town’s heart and absorb its unique character. Later, we arrive in Palermo, where dinner will be served at the hotel. Overnight in Palermo.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the treasures of Palermo, beginning with a visit to Monreale accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Here, we will tour the remarkable Monreale Cathedral, renowned for its extensive mosaics covering 6,000 square metres that vividly depict biblical scenes. Later in the morning, we return to Palermo to discover its most iconic landmarks, including the impressive Cathedral, the Quattro Canti—considered the heart of the city’s baroque quarter—and the elegant Pretoria Fountain. Lunch is at your leisure, giving you the freedom to choose a spot that suits your preferences. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Palermo at your own pace. You might visit the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house, admire the art collection at Palazzo Abatellis Gallery, delve into history at the Archaeological Museum, or experience the unique traditions at the Puppet Museum. We spend the night in Palermo.

After breakfast, we depart for the hilltop town of Erice, where a guided tour will lead you through its narrow, cobbled streets. Perched high above the surrounding landscape, Erice offers impressive panoramic views and a strong sense of history. Following the tour, we visit a well-known local winery to explore the cellars and learn about the winemaking process. This visit includes a tasting of regional wines paired with traditional Sicilian street food, providing an authentic flavour of the area. We then continue towards Agrigento, stopping en route at the ancient archaeological site of Selinunte. Here, you can admire the impressive Greek temples set dramatically against the sea, a remarkable blend of history and natural beauty. Overnight in Agrigento.

After breakfast, we will explore Agrigento, focusing on the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive ancient Greek temples set within a striking landscape. We will also visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses a significant collection of artefacts illuminating the region’s history. Following the tour, we will travel towards central Sicily, enjoying views of the island’s scenic countryside. Lunch will be at a local organic farm, where you will savour a traditional Sicilian meal featuring fresh, regional ingredients and a classic dessert, accompanied by beverages. In the afternoon, before arriving in Caltagirone, we will stop in Piazza Armerina. Here, you may choose to visit the Villa Romana del Casale, famous for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman mosaics. Please note that entrance to the villa is not included and tickets must be purchased on site. We will then continue to Caltagirone for the evening.

After breakfast, we travel to Noto, celebrated for its stunning Baroque architecture. Upon arrival, we take a leisurely walk through the historic centre, admiring the town’s elegant buildings, ornate churches and charming streets that reflect its rich architectural heritage. In the afternoon, we continue to Siracusa and explore Ortigia Island, the city’s historic heart. Highlights include the Aretusa Fountain, known for its lush papyrus plants and historical importance, an external view of the impressive Baroque Dome of Syracuse, and a visit to the Temple of Apollo, one of Sicily’s oldest Doric temples that reveals the area’s ancient Greek roots. We then proceed to Taormina for the evening. Overnight in Taormina.

After breakfast, you have the option to explore Mount Etna, one of the world’s most famous volcanoes (this excursion is not included and must be paid for on-site). The visit begins at the parking area situated at 1,900 metres altitude, where you will join a guided tour to the summit. This experience includes a cable car ride, an off-road minivan transfer, and a walk through Etna’s volcanic terrain. Afterwards, we will visit a well-known Sicilian winery for a wine tasting, accompanied by samples of local food products that highlight the region’s flavours. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Taormina, often called the “Pearl of the Ionian Coast.” While exploring its elegant streets and historic sites, you may wish to visit a traditional pastry shop, or Pasticceria, where you can watch a demonstration of how Sicilian cannoli are made, followed by a tasting of this iconic dessert. Overnight in Taormina.

After breakfast, we will transfer you to Catania Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your Sicilian journey, leaving you with lasting memories of the island’s rich history, striking landscapes, and distinctive cuisine.