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A Sicilian Odyssey

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Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

• 2024 Small Group
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Experience with tauck

TAUCK EXCLUSIVES – Private lunch at a Baron's palazzo in Siracusa with a wine tasting from the family vineyard and dinner and an art tour with the son of a baroness at their private villa in Palermo

Tauck Value Includes

Visit to Palermo's grand Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele, the largest opera house in Italy

Visits to the Sicilian Baroque UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Noto and Ragusa Ibla

Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

Discover cultural footprints forever present... O ver the centuries, the island of Sicily was colonized by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Normans and assorted others before becoming part of Spain, then the Bourbon Kingdom, and finally part of Italy. And today...

Private tour of palermo's teatro massimo, behind-the-scenes at italy's largest opera house, palermo's teatro massimo vittorio emanuele.

The largest theatre in Italy and Europe's third-largest opera house, Palermo's Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele opened in 1897 – 22 years after construction began – with a production of Verdi's "Falstaff." Its neoclassical exterior was inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture, while its auditorium reflects the style of the Renaissance and features excellent acoustics, as you'll see (and hear) on your guided tour of this grand venue. Closed for 23 years starting in the 1970s, the Teatro Massimo – the location where the final scenes of "The Godfather, Part III" were filmed – was restored and reopened in time for its centennial in 1997.

Reception and dinner at a private villa

An exclusive reception, dinner and art tour hosted by a family member at a private villa in palermo.

Built in the 18th century for the King of Naples, Ferdinand I and Queen Maria Carolina of Borbone (an older sister of Queen Marie Antoinette of France) during their exile in Sicily, Villa Chiaramonte Bordonaro is still home to the Barons Chiaramonte Bordonaro today, and its gardens rank among the most beautiful parks in Palermo. The villa's current owners often open up their home for special events… like your exclusive private visit and gala dinner, to which you are welcomed by the son of the current Baroness, who hosts a tour of his family's villa and their private art collection housed in a building designed by Ernesto Basile, the architect of the Teatro Massimo.

Verdura Golf & Spa Resort

Nights 3 and 4

An alluring Sicilian escape....

An irresistible destination boasting miles of private Mediterranean coastline, Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is a place where your room will seem woven subtly into the Sicilian landscape... where you'll enjoy a true sense of space and uninterrupted views of the azure waters from your private terrace.

Sicily is an island of wild beauty and history, with a culture that dates back to antiquity. The tour encapsulated the passion and pride of a Sicily one must experience.

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Grand hotel ortigia.

Siracusa, Sicily, Italy

Eremo Della Giubiliana

Ragusa, Sicily, Italy

Verdura Resort

Sciacca, Sicily

Grand Hotel et des Palmes

Palermo, Italy

Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea

Taormina, Sicily, Italy

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Italy; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $600 per person

89-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Italy. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

A Sicilian Odyssey is an active and extensive tour. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Sicily is home to innumerable historic buildings and sites, some dating from antiquity. Therefore, roads, walkways and architecture will present challenges for you if you have difficulty walking independently and, therefore, we do not recommend this tour if you have such difficulty. You will encounter cobblestone streets, narrow passageways, and steep and winding hill town roads. The amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your sole discretion; you may remain on the coach during any of these walking excursions.

Examples of our walking itinerary:

• Agrigento 2 hours of walking over mainly even terrain
• Noto - cobblestoned but flat walkways
• Siracusa - uneven terrain at Archaeological Park
• Taormina - steep walkways throughout city center

In addition, coach travel along the many "Yellow Roads" on this tour are very windy and may cause you some discomfort if you are prone to motion sickness. If you are, we advise bringing motion sickness remedies or medication with you.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Sicily has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild and wet winters and hot, dry summers. Summer temperatures are often above 90°F (32°C) during the day and drop to about 70°F (21°C) at night. In the fall the temperatures range from 60 to 80°F (16 to 27°C). Rainfall can occur anytime throughout the year, though the summer months are the driest.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

When packing for your trip to Sicily, it is important to keep in mind the time of year you are traveling and the current weather conditions for that time. The weather in Italy is temperate and unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but certainly be comfortable.

Most Catholic churches in Italy require that your knees and shoulders be covered when you enter, even during the hot days of summer.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. By law in Italy, irons and ironing boards are not made available to guests at the hotels. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Italy:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Sicily Escorted Tours

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All of our arrangements have been specially designed to incorporate a reason to travel and, for ease of choice, these have been categorised under the titles shown below.

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Escorted Tours to Sicily

The essence of sicily.

A cultural kaleidoscope wrapped in dramatic landscapes, Sicily is studded with Baroque towns and Byzantine mosaics, sprinkled with classical ruins and Norman castles, scented with wild herbs and citrus groves, and steeped in legends and drama.

Why choose a tour in Sicily?

Set just off the toe of the boot-shaped Italian mainland, Sicily has been seducing travellers since the 17 th century. With beautiful beaches, archaeological treasures, Aeolian Islands, UNESCO sites, and iconic Mount Etna, tours in Sicily cover everything from cultural heritage to contrasting landscapes.

We circle the island through its ancient past , from Syracuse, the site of Archimedes’ ‘Eureka’ moment; to the Roman mosaics of Villa del Casale, Agrigento’s Greek ‘Valley of Temples’; Phoenician relics on a tiny islet, the rock tombs of Pantalica, and the ruins of Selinunte city, isolated, elevated, and enormous.

There are tours to the UNESCO listed ‘Towns of Val di Noto’, south-eastern Noto, Scicli, Ragusa and Catania; all destroyed in the 1693 earthquake and rebuilt in the florid façades of Baroque splendour.

Breathtaking Byzantine art graces churches and cathedrals with gleaming gilded mosaics, in Palermo, Monreale, and coastal Cefalú, its Middle Ages heart meeting a modern and vibrant shore; while splendid Taormina encapsulates Sicily’s past and present, with a Greek amphitheatre, medieval alleys, and a main street hemmed with chic shops.

Some places which are new to you may seem familiar, as we fuse fact with fiction in film, TV, and literary locations, from the Savoca setting for scenes of ‘The Godfather’, to Punta Secca’s sites for Inspector Montalbano , and the volcanoes of Stromboli, where Jules Verne’s adventurers emerged from their ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’.

To complete the full picture of the island , the various tour routes are punctuated with grand palazzos, picturesque fishing ports, white-washed villages, and wind-whipped cliffs.

When to go on Sicily holidays

With the warmest of Italy’s Mediterranean weather, Sicily enjoys a balmy climate between 20 and 25 degrees in April, May, September and October, a comfortable time for touring, when towns and sights are generally quieter. Temperatures rise in the summer months (June-August) to hover around 30-35°, when the seas around the island are temptingly warm, and resorts are notably busier. Jules Verne tours operate between mid-March and early November.

Who are Sicily tours suited to?

Sicily combines its unique culture with characterful medieval towns, celebrated archaeological sites, spectacular topography, speciality cuisine, and sweet Marsala wine; welcoming the literati, the glitterati, and the curious traveller, and delivering the ideals of every visitor in one way or another. Our small-group tours are enjoyed by singles, couples, and friends alike; and for those who prefer to travel solo, we offer an ‘ exclusively singles ’ tour of the island’s treasures.

Why book Sicily tours with Jules Verne?

With 45 years’ experience and a passion for creating extraordinary adventures, Jules Verne visits famous landmarks and lesser-known sites, with expert tour guides who share their local knowledge, and show you hidden gems. Our journeys in Sicily visit every one of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage sites from the slopes of Mount Etna to Aeolian Islands, ancient cities, Byzantine chapels, grandiose Gothic cathedrals and Taormina, a tourist magnet since the Grand Tour travellers visited, two centuries ago.

All our guided tours to Sicily are ABTA and ATOL protected, and we offer a 100% price guarantee, so you can book with complete confidence.

Secret Sicily

A very varied journey through Sicily’s less-visited sites, this tour reveals the hidden gems of cultural heritage and contrasting landscapes, from Aeolian Islands to ostentatious Baroque towns, and from fishing villages to the fictional world of Inspector Montalbano

Limited Time Offers

Book now - offer ends 25 September 2024

Treasures of Sicily

A veritable feast of Greek and Roman monuments vie for attention amid the Norman, Phoenician and Saracen landmarks of Sicily’s cultural heritage. The island’s astonishing wealth of well-preserved sites bring the ancient past to life and make this our top tour in Italy

Treasures & Secrets of Sicily

A heady blend of ancient sites, stunning scenery, charming towns and glorious churches, this is our ‘grand tour’ of Sicily, its highlights varying from Aeolian Isles to UNESCO sites, Mount Etna to Marsala wine, and the Scicli film locations of Inspector Montalbano

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Experience sicily with collette.

If Sicily or Malta is calling you, we’ve got your answer: go guided with Collette! Go off-roading on Mt. Etna. Drink some local wine. Follow your curiosity. It all starts now!

Your Sicily Experience with Collette

Designed for travellers.

With a maximum of 24 travellers, make friends, form connections, and immerse yourself in the destination.

Unique Accommodation

Your accommodation keep you in the heart of it all – from the countryside to the waterfront or right in town.

Led by Experts

Enjoy a travel experience from a local’s point of view, backed by a century of expertise as a tour operator.

Beyond the Guidebook

Check off the must-see sights as well as countless moments you couldn't find in any guidebook.

By Travellers, For Travellers: Savour the Collette Difference in Sicily

The Road Less Travelled

Sometimes, reinventing the wheel is amazing . On the Old World Sicily & Malta tour, see Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna (UNESCO). Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano.

Closer to Culture

Get to know the world-renowned Sicilian hospitality firsthand on our Southern Italy and Sicily tour. You’ll journey to a family-owned farmhouse, meet the owners, and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like. Learn how ricotta cheese is made and tuck into a hearty farm-to-table dinner, made with family recipes.

Tough Truths

On our Sicily and Its Isles tour, get to know Addiopizzo . This anti-Mafia not-for-profit supports locals who refuse to pay the Mafia’s protection fees. Travellers will be on location where some turning-point Mafia attacks happened, and you’ll meet people directly affected by the Mafia’s despicable actions.

FEATURED TOURS

SMALL GROUP EXPLORATIONS

Old World Sicily & Malta

11 days | 16 meals.

Sicily and Its Isles

13 days | 20 meals.

14 days | 23 meals

Southern Italy & Sicily

12 days | 20 meals.

*Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date.

Amunì! (Let’s go!)

Get a Taste of Sicily from our Local Experts

New podcast episode behind the tour: savouring sicily.

Shannon Levi designs our Italian tours. As an Italian herself, she’s so passionate about her culture. In the latest episode of our podcast, she shared the distinction of Travelling to Sicily versus destinations in Northern and Central Italy.

Plus, she talked about eating gelato for breakfast. This is a must-listen for sure. Catch the latest episode of our Travel Unpacked podcast now!

Collette Playlist

Sicilians have a reputation for their deep sense of community. And that community is deeply animated. Get a taste of the lively music of this region. Dancing shoes are recommended.

Related Blog Content

Stepping into culture in sicily, get a taste of sicilian street food, the wines of sicily, find a travel agency.

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• Treasures of Sicily Small Group Escorted Tour
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From Europe’s largest active volcano to golden sandy beaches and historic ancient Greek ruins, we’ll help you navigate the top sights and attractions of this wonderful island on our Treasures of Sicily Escorted Tour. Spend eight days taking in pretty villages perched on mountains, bustling markets full of local delicacies, traditional vineyards and excellent Baroque architecture. Try Sicilian street food, fresh olives, Etna wine and lots more as you chat to locals and take in the stunning landscapes.

Please be advised that our escorted tours are dependent on minimum numbers. The minimum numbers on all tours is 6. Please speak to our Italy Experts for more information. Due to the amount of walking and steps involved with this tour, it is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.  

2025 Tour Departures Dates

• 07 May 2025
• 04 June 2025
• 10 September 2025
• 24 September 2025

At a glance

• Exclusive to Citalia
• Explore temples, ruins and buildings dating back to ancient Greece
• Immerse yourself in the Greek mythology of ancient times
• Maximum group size 18
• Take in the beautiful Baroque architecture of the area
• Try fine local wines and appetisers in a traditional winery
• Visit Sicily's largest market and try local delicacies and street food
• Visit the majestic Mount Etna and maybe see smoke from the top
• Wander through cobbled streets which overlook the sparkling Mediterranean

For more information, call our Italy Experts on:

Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Catania Airport. A driver will be waiting to take you to your first hotel, 4* Nettuno in Catania, where you will stay for one night. Enjoy a welcome drink, and later a delicious traditional Italian dinner will be served.

Accommodation: 4* Hotel Nettuno 

Meals included:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before meeting your local English speaking guide. Set off by car to Piazza Armerina which is located in the heart of Sicily and visit the Roman Villa. Thereafter, visit Cefalù and its Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the Norman times and offers beautiful architecture along with ornate interiors. The Arabian bathhouse is next on your list. Wander through the dark, monastic style interiors and pretty courtyard, before you return to your hotel for dinner.

Accommodation: 4* Baia del Capitano

Baia Del Capitano

• A quiet retreat near Cefalù '
• A range of sporting activities available for guests

Start the day with a visit to one of Palermo’s biggest markets, the Capo Market. Your English speaking guide will take you through the bustling lanes and vibrant stalls as you watch the locals haggle for fresh Sicilian produce and succulent street food. Taste some of the delicious varieties of street food, with rich flavours and influences from Arabic, Mediterranean and traditional Italian cuisine. Spend the rest of the day wandering through the pretty streets and taking in the tangle of houses, juxtaposed by the peaceful courtyards, churches and gardens your guide will lead you through. Some of the top highlights include the ornate Palatine Chapel, the impressive Cathedral with its blend of European and Moorish architecture and the majestic Martorana church. Your last stop is the Cathedral of Monreale, where you can take in the intricate patterns of the mosaics and breathtaking views. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel. Accommodation: 4* Baia del Capitano

Spend the morning on a tour of some of Agrigento’s most historic attractions. Visit the Valley of the Temples, which is located on a platform and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Wander through seven partially preserved temples and take in their size, beauty and history which dates back to Greek mythology. The temples are dedicated to Zeus, Hercules, Pollax and more, giving you a fascinating insight into the area’s history and the myths of ancient Greece.  Before driving back to your hotel there will be an amazing photo stop at the Scala dei Turchi. Finish the day with dinner at your hotel in Cefalù.

Today you will leave Cefalù, our first stop being at the breathtaking Sanctuary of Tindari.  A place of pilgrimage and home to some extraordinary archaeological ruins and a curious tongue of sand, this former Greek settlement dating to 396 BC is situated 180m above sea level, and is a visible landmark to sailors. On to Taormina to spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful streets and take in the wonderful architecture and luscious gardens. Take in views down the mountain to the sparkling waters of the sea, visit the Roman-Greek Theatre, and the tranquil Piazza 9th of April, which is located in the heart of the old town. Those wanting to pick up souvenirs, gifts and other items will enjoy Corso Umberto, which is the main shopping street and stretches for a mile.  Proceed to your hotel for an overnight stay, dinner at leisure.

Accommodation: 4* Hotel Monte Tauro

Spend the morning exploring the majestic Mount Etna, which is the highest active volcano in Europe. The bus will take you to an elevation of 1,900 metres on the south side and your guide will take you to see lava streams and huge craters. From autumn to spring, the mountain is covered with snow and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take in the luscious surroundings caused by the humidity and fertile earth from the volcanic activity, and maybe even spot smoke coming from the top of the volcano. Depending on the weather, you can also choose to explore further, for a supplement (approx. €70 per person), and visit the main crater by cable car and jeep. On your way back to Taormina you will stop at a famous winery for some wine tasting on the Etna slopes. Accommodation: 4* Hotel Monte Tauro

Spend the morning in Syracuse, which was the most important city on the island during the Greek rule. Take in the well preserved buildings and ruins as you visit Ortigia, which is located on a small island stretching into the Mediterranean. Enjoy some free time on the island before visiting the majestic Cathedral with your local guide. The picturesque Arethusa Fountain is a must see. In the afternoon you will visit the archaeological area, where you can take in the history of the ancient Greek Theatre and the former stone quarries which are surrounded by luscious gardens.

Enjoy a continental breakfast at your hotel before being transferred to the airport for your flight home.

8 days from £2,499 per person

What's included:

• 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners
• English speaking guide from day two to day seven
• Wine tasting on the Etna slopes
• All mentioned site entrance fees (unless specified)
• Hotel porterage
• Private airport transfers for arrival and departure are included in the price shown, however, these can be discussed and tailored at the point of booking

What's not included:

• Drinks at dinner (other than water)
• Entrance fees to monuments, museums and churches
• All lunches
• Tourist tax (approx. €14 per person)

Practical Information

Flight information, visa information.

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The Best of Sicily

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• Accommodation

Tour Overview

Sicily has so much to offer, and on this tour, you’ll experience it all!

The carefully crafted itinerary includes a cable car ride up Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, and a visit to the island’s vibrant capital Palermo. You’ll learn about Sicily’s Greek and Roman history at well-preserved archaeological sites and see the beautiful Monreale Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

With its unique style of Italian cuisine, Sicily is also known for its food, and you’ll have a chance to sample some delicious local specialities including Palermo’s famous street food, and granita, a refreshing semi-frozen dessert. What’s more, you’ll be staying in comfortable 4-star hotels, where you can soak up the Sicilian sun by the pool, relax with a drink, or dip your toes in the shimmering sea.

Your Holiday Includes

• Return flights from London
• 7 nights half-board in 4-star hotels
• 15 meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners and welcome drink
• Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide
• Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

Included Holiday Highlights

• Discover Taormina on a guided tour and enjoy a tasting of granita
• Ascend Mount Etna by cable car
• Admire the mosaics at the Roman Villa Romana del Casale
• Explore the ancient Valley of the Temples
• Sicily's capital Palermo and Monreale Cathedral
• Palermo street food experience

Day 1 UK - Catania

Your holiday begins with a flight to Catania. When you arrive, we’ll drive you to your first hotel in the picturesque coastal village of Giardini Naxos, close to Taormina. The hotel has an inviting pool and welcoming bar, and you have some free time to relax and settle in before we get together for a drink this evening.

Day 2 Mount Etna

It's Sicily's most famous attraction, its name known the world over, and today you’re going to see Mount Etna up close. We’ll ascend Europe's tallest active volcano by cable car to an altitude of around 2,500 metres. You’ll then have some free time to take in the far-reaching views and explore the lava fields of this UNESCO-listed site at your own pace. After our descent, we’ll visit a traditional farm shop to learn about their delicious produce. We’ll try different flavours of honey, taste locally produced olive oil, olives and vegetable pâté and sample three different types of wine.

Day 3 Taormina

We're off to Taormina today, a fascinating town which overlooks two sweeping bays. We’ve arranged for a Local Guide to show us around and one of the highlights will be a visit to the town’s magnificent Greco-Roman theatre, perched dramatically on a clifftop. As well as exploring this ancient site, you can take in panoramic views of the sea with Mount Etna looming large in the distance. Our tour will end with a tasting of granita. This semi-frozen dessert, which originated here, comes in many delicious flavours and is utterly refreshing. You’ll then have some time to yourselves to explore Taormina at leisure. Perhaps find an inviting restaurant for lunch or take a stroll through the pretty streets and piazzas.

Day 4 Villa del Casale - Campofelice di Roccella

We're going to head to our next base today, Campofelice di Roccella, near Cefalu, on Sicily’s northern coast. On the way, we’ll have the chance to revel in some Roman history at the 4th-century Villa Romana del Casale, close to the town of Piazza Armerina. Here, excavations have revealed one of the world's richest and most complex collections of Roman mosaics and as you view them with a Local Guide, you'll be amazed by their excellent condition. We'll continue to our hotel which is set in beautiful gardens and has a private beach. Once you've unpacked, why not head out and explore your surroundings.

Day 5 Valley of the Temples & Agrigento

Our included excursion today takes us to Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples, a Hellenic archaeological site dramatically situated on a ridge overlooking the sea. Here, a Local Guide will point out all the must-see sights, which include the Temple of Concord, famed for its surprisingly well-preserved columns, and the Temple of Zeus, said to be the largest temple built by the Greeks. Those who are feeling energetic can also climb to the Temple of Juno for fabulous views over Agrigento and the sea.

After the tour, you will have some free time to enjoy lunch if you wish, and then the rest of the day is yours to relax at the hotel.

Day 6 Campofelice di Roccella - at Leisure

How you spend today is entirely up to you. Relax by the pool or on the beach or maybe take a local shuttle to nearby Cefalù, a pretty fishing port. There's lots to discover here, including its winding medieval streets, sandy beaches and one of Sicily's finest Norman cathedrals. If you peer inside, you'll see some of the island's earliest and best-preserved mosaics, with the spectacular Christ Pantocrator above the altar, particularly memorable. The town’s pretty piazzas are also a lovely place to take the weight off your feet with a gelato or well-earned coffee.

Day 7 Palermo & Monreale

Today we’ll visit Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, boasting a wealth of architecture ranging in style from Arabic to Art Nouveau. The city is famous for its street food tradition and we’re going to a local restaurant to enjoy a street food experience. You'll be able to sample a wide variety of seasonal dishes, such as deep-fried tuna, a cheese made from sheep's milk, and arancini, which are rice balls filled with ragu sauce. Also on the menu will be caponata, a sweet and sour dish made with aubergines and other vegetables, served in a tomato sauce. It promises to be a real treat for your tastebuds! After you've eaten you could take some time to explore the light-filled Capella Palatine Chapel, which proudly exhibits intricate Byzantine mosaics.

After a short drive, our next stop will be the beautiful Monreale Cathedral, one of the greatest examples of Norman architecture in the world. The pleasant yet unremarkable exterior of the cathedral offers no clue as to the exquisite golden paintings and spectacular mosaics you'll discover when you venture inside.

Day 8 Catania - UK

After breakfast, relax and enjoy your final hours in Sicily before we drive you back to the airport in Catania for your return flight to the UK.

Additional Information

Accommodation (as specified or similar), hotel caesar palace.

Hotel Caesar Palace is a modern and unique hotel located close to the beach, which can be reached with a complimentary shuttle bus. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and a swimming pool. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, mini-bar, hairdryer, tea/coffee-making facilities, safe and a TV.

Acacia Resort

Set on its own private beach, the hotel's facilities include a restaurant, bar, health club and outdoor swimming pool. Guest rooms have private facilities, hairdryer, TV, fridge and balcony or patio. Swimming pools are typically open May to September.

Personalise your trip

Choose to extend your stay with an organised add-on. 

The Best of Sicily with Aeolian Islands Add-on

On this extended version of Best of Sicily tour you will spend eight days in delightful Sicily followed by a leisurely four days on the UNESCO-protected Aeolian Island of Lipari. You'll get the chance to explore Taormina, marvel at the brooding Mount Etna, visit the the 4th century Villa Romana del Casale and then onto Palermo and its beautiful Monreale Cathedral. For the remaining four days you will be staying on Lipari, largest of the Aeolian Islands famed for its beauty, tranquil atmosphere and the unique flavours of its food and wine, followed by a final night in the city of Catania back on Sicily.

Further Information

Group sizes vary between tours - we have an average group size of 27. We endeavour to make sure the size of the group has a positive impact on each trip and our guests almost always say that the group was one of the highlights of the trip!

When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;

• European Holidays - £200 Per person
• Worldwide Holidays - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater
• Ocean Cruises - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater

On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.

If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.

If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.

• More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
• 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
• 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
• 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
• Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price

Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions , section 8.

We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel Requirements & Visa Service

You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK ( www.gov.uk ). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk , click on country information to locate your destination.

It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.

For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border.  For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.

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Pastel-coloured villages perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the azure sea - it's this picture-postcard scenery that makes the Amalfi Coast so special.

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Wildflowers and nature walks are at the heart of this holiday on the idyllic Greek island of Crete, which also boasts an incredible history.

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Brooding Mount Etna forms a dramatic backdrop to your discoveries as you revel in Roman history in Sicily followed by a relaxing four days on the UNESCO-protected Aeolian island of Lipari.

• 12 nights in 4-star hotels
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Prices shown are based on twin occupancy of a double or twin bedded room with private facilities unless otherwise stated. Single occupancy supplements will apply. Travelsphere have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the hotel images provided on this website and images of room types displayed may vary to those offered on your tour. Therefore due to the possibility of inadvertent errors we do not guarantee their accuracy. Accommodation, airlines used and flight times are subject to change and will be confirmed in your final documents.

Reasons to book with Travelsphere

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All Travelsphere holidays are financially protected via ATOL (flight-inclusive holidays) and financial insurance (non-flight packages). Additionally, all customer money is held in a Trust Fund, governed by independent Trustees. This means your money is 100% protected no matter what.

Sicily Small Group Tours

Home > Italy Tours > Sicily

Private Guided Tours of Sicily

Sicily is one of our favorite places to visit. Each time we go and no matter how many Sicily tours we plan, the island situated in the Mediterranean Sea calls us and our clients back again, every time. Sicily almost touches mainland Italy due to its location just off the tip of the Apennine peninsula, at the “toe” of Italy.

The island is easily reachable by air from the Italian mainland with frequent flights departing from Naples, Rome, and Milan to name a few. We offer a variety of tour options that may be customized for any traveler.

One of the main attractions you can’t miss is Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in all of Europe at over 10,990 feet (3,350 meters). The Mediterranean island of Sicily is a treasure trove of the undiscovered. Beside the most obvious attractions, the island contains lovely coastal towns, hip cities, amazing art and food that is touched by the flavors of places like Morocco. You must include Sicily on your next trip to Europe.

Sicily is one of the few places on earth that have the earliest evidence of humans; dating back to about 12,000 BC. The island is filled with architectural treasures like the Valley of the Temples, the Pantalica Necropolis and Selinunte. Don’t forget the amazing Aeolian Islands! Our Sicily tours have so much to offer.

12-Day Sicily and Malta: A Best of Sicily and Malta Tour

8-Day Small Group Sicily Food Tour

8-Day Small Group Highlights of Sicily

8-Day Enchanting Western Sicily: A Luxury Journey Through History and Beauty

12-Day Enchanting Sicily and Aeolian Splendor: A Grand Tour of Sicilian Highlights and Island Wonders

8-Day Sicilian Elegance: A Luxury Journey Through The Timeless Wonders of Eastern Sicily

7-Day Sicily Tour

8-Day Sicilian Delights: Culture & Cuisine Group Tour

8-Day Odyssey of Unforgettable Beauty, Culture, and Flavor Discovering the Soul of Sicily

The Aeolian Islands Tour

A 10-Day Journey Through Sicily with Rem at Italy4Real – Memories of a Lifetime

Scale an Active Volcano – Mount Etna Tours

Agrigento Tour: The Valley of The Temples

8-Day Sicily Wines & Foods Tour

Create Your Own Tour of Italy & Europe

What to See In Sicily

Sicily’s attractions are cultural and scenic, and aside from a couple of summer water parks, there’s not much in the way of typical “tourist” attractions. Instead, Sicily is full of authentic experiences that can only be had in this unique island and Palermo is the place to start!

At the crossroads of several important Mediterranean trade routes and subject in its long history to Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantine Greeks, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards, Sicily’s regional capital (1) is a fascinating historical palimpsest – and, with its palm trees, prickly pears and banyan trees, a botanical melting pot.

Don’t miss the glorious 12th-century mosaics in the church of La Martorana or Roger II’s private chapel, the Capella Palatina; and set aside half a day for the trip up to lofty Monreale, whose cathedral boasts yet more dazzling Norman-era mosaics.

Make sure you take time to visit the two fresh markets in Palermo. Each market is different, offering sights and sounds  that you will remember for a lifetime.

Check the Palermo opera schedule to see if there is something playing at Teatro Massimo.

One of the great cities of the Western Greek diaspora (it was home to mathematician and engineer Archimedes), Syracuse is today undergoing something of a Renaissance. Syracuse has a great historical area that has many shops and cafes for you to stop and enjoy a drink and a bit of people watching. Don’t miss the Syracuse market for the freshest veggies, meats and cheeses.

Agrigento is famous for an archaeological site know as the Valle dei Templi “Valley of Temples” spreads over two almost complete temples and the partly-reconstructed ruins of three others. The three great Greek temple complexes of western and southern Sicily are the equal to those in Greece, itself.

Selinunte, on the south coast between Mazara del Vallo and Sciacca, features not such well-preserved ruins, but its position on a coast with an abundance of wild flowers & celery that gives the site its name is hugely atmospheric. If you seek out Cave di Cusa, seven miles to the northeast, chances are you’ll have it all to yourself. Suddenly abandoned in 409BC, this was where the stone used in Selinunte’s temples was quarried, and it’s a fascinating place with great fluted column sections, carved in situ, still anchored in the mother rock.

So is that of Segesta, the closest to Palermo. Although unfinished, the elegance of the fifth-century temple that perched on the crest of a hill makes it perhaps Sicily’s most impressive Greek ruin.

Taormina & Etna, Sicily

Taormina combines a breathtaking position beneath Mount Etna with a balmy climate that allows jasmine and bougainvillea to flower even in December.

It has an historical center that sits high above the sea and hotels that offer amazing views. Lower Taormina is where you can dip your feet in the sea and eat a great seafood meal overlooking the ocean.

Roman mosaics, unearthed in the 19th century at Casale, 3 miles south of Piazza Armerina, are among the richest and most complex in situ collection anywhere in the world.

A complex that was in use from the 4th century BC right through to the 12th century AD, the villa most probably belonged to the large estate owner and would have been used to entertain and a base for hunting.

The site is well worth a detour. The artists who designed these floors had a real flair for colour and composition, and the friezes depicting marine animals, hunting scenes, the circus and the famous bikini-clad female gymnasts are all utterly delightful.

Tours of Sicily

The island of Sicily gains popularity each year and each year more tourists discover its unique flavors, towns, and people. Sicily is almost its own country, where influences from Morocco and Greece have blessed the island with interesting foods, architecture, and culture.

Our Sicily tours offer visits to the most iconic cities, such as Palermo, Agrigento and Taormina. The Valley of the Temples will amaze you, while Palermo’s food, culture, and history will delight you.

Sicily is rustic and untouched by mass tourism unlike mainland Italy; so you want to have a guide or organized plan when visiting. Our expert staff will help you navigate the island in a way that is organized, relaxing and enjoyable.

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One of the Escorted tours in Sicily and Italy is the best solution to visit the highlights in one or two weeks. We plan our tours carefully, designing the routing as a mix of historical sites, landscape, food & wine, archaeology, without forgetting to give you free time for your relax or personal wishes and needs.

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Esplora Travel

exclusive cultural, expert-led small-group tours

Treasures of Sicily tour

Our flagship tour of sicily.

One of our most popular Sicily small group tours, Treasures of Sicily is a fully escorted small group tour. Designed to be the perfect introduction to the island, it is a wonderful 12-day journey in a friendly group, taking in all the major sights. We invite you to savour some of the best Sicilian food and wine, help you understand the island’s history and culture and let you marvel at the natural beauty of the landscape. And to join us on what, we believe, is one of the best Sicily tours…

Scheduled dates for Treasures of Sicily Tour

Tour features.

• Fully guided tour of Sicily.
• Small group travel: maximum group size is 12 guests.
• Guaranteed departure dates
• UNESCO World heritage sites
• Accompanied by a Tour manager throughout your journey
• Tour cost includes entrance fees to main sites/museums
• Private 17-seater minibus
• Tour cost includes all hotel city taxes
• Guided tour of Ortygia & the Neapolis archaeological park, Siracusa
• Local market in Ortygia
• Guided tours of the Baroque towns of Noto and Ragusa Ibla
• Guided tour of the Temples of Agrigento
• Winery visit with wine tasting
• Guided tours of Marsala, Erice and Segesta
• A boat trip to the island of Mozia
• Visit to Cefalù and the Madonie mountains
• Guided tour of the Roman mosaics of Villa del Casale, Piazza Armerina
• Staying in Taormina (not in a nearby town!)
• Visit to the slopes of Mt Etna
• 2 nights in a charming small hotel in Ortygia, Siracusa (classic room)
• 1 night in an agriturismo near Piazza Armerina
• 2 nights in a boutique hotel in Marsala
• 3 nights in a boutique hotel (classic room) in Palermo
• 1 night in Milazzo
• 2 nights in Taormina (classic room) (see note below)
• all lunches/breakfasts
• 9 evening meals are included – 2 evenings are not included
• Arrival/Departure airport for this tour: Catania airport
• Transfers and pick-ups/drop-offs from/to the main airport of arrival on the day of arrival/departure of the tour are included
• Some walking involved – you should be able to walk 5 kilometers without difficulty.

Full Itinerary

Arrival and onward to siracusa (syracuse).

The Treasures of Sicily tour starts with a rendezvous at Catania airport in the afternoon and transfer by minibus on a short drive (1 hour) to our hotel on the island of Ortigia in Siracusa . After a welcome aperitif, we eat a fine sea-food dinner in one of our favourite Siracusan trattorie – which we think is an excellent way to start one of our Sicily tours!

Over dinner, we discuss the importance of the Siracusa in the ancient world. It was one of the earliest Ancient Greek colonies of the Magna Graecia (the diaspora of Greek cities founded as trading outposts of their parent cities) but in the 5th century BC, it grew to be the most powerful city in the whole of Mediterranean.

Overnight in Ortigia, Siracusa.

Guided tour of Ortigia & the Neapolis archaeological park, Siracusa

We start the day with a visit one of the largest and best preserved of all Greek theatres in the whole of the Hellenic world and a remarkable cavern known as L’Orecchio di Dionisio – which, according to a legend started by Caravaggio no less, was used as a prison by the tyrant Dionysius and allowed him to eavesdrop on his captives.

In the late morning, we return to Ortigia where we visit the vibrant food market before enjoying our lunch.

In the afternoon, we strolling through the streets of Ortigia – rubbing shoulders with Greek Mythology, contemplating temples and admiring stunning Baroque and Renaissance architecture and marvelling at Sicily’s most beautiful piazza. Then we visit the cathedral, once the temple of Athena, and thus arguably the oldest building in the world in use for Christian worship.

There is free time in the late afternoon – perhaps for visiting the city art gallery, the Castello Maniace or maybe just shopping or enjoying an ice-cream in spectacular Piazza Duomo.

Evening meal. Overnight in Ortigia, Siracusa.

The Sicilian Baroque: Noto, Modica and Ragusa Ibla.

We make an early start, driving through a landscape of rolling meadows and drystone walls that will be familiar to fans of Inspector Montalbano .

Much of the Eastern part of Sicily was completely destroyed in an earthquake in 1693 and the towns and churches were subsequently rebuilt in a flamboyant style characteristic of Sicilian Baroque. Our first stop of the day, Noto , was even rebuilt as a completely new city 15km from its original site and has a homogeneity and regularity of street-pan unrivalled in Sicilian architecture.

Our journey then takes us to Modica for lunch, and there is time afterwards to enjoy the spectacular view of the city, dominated by the magnificent church of San Giorgio.

We then continue our journey westwards to Ragusa Ibla . Ragusa was also rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, but in this case, it is the old part of the town that we visit. We take a stroll through the winding streets of Ragusa Ibla before continuing our journey to our overnight accommodation.

Evening meal and overnight in a winery near Piazza Armerina.

Roman Mosaics at the Villa del Casale, Piazza Armerina and The Valley of the Temples, Agrigento: some of the finest Doric Greek temples surviving

We make an early start from the winery and drive to the Roman Villa del Casale at Piazza Armerina (1 hour) – a hunting lodge from Roman times endowed with the some of the most incredible Roman mosaics anywhere, quite breathtaking in their scope and in the imagery they portray.

After lunch nearby, we drive to Agrigento (1.5 hours) for lunch

In the afternoon, we venture among some of the finest Greek temples in the whole of the Mediterranean. We walk the whole stretch of the Valle dei Templi , starting with the beautiful Temple of Hera, moving on to the breathtaking Temple of Concordia – perfectly preserved and beautifully sited with fine views over almond groves and the sea and onwards until we reach the Temple of Zeus – the largest Doric temple ever built.

After our visit with travel onwards to Marsala where we stay the night.

Evening meal and overnight in Marsala.

The Phoenicians at Mozia and Garibaldi in Marsala

We start the morning in Marsala or Marsa Allāh (God’s harbour) as it was known to the Arabs. Marsala has earned its place in Italian history books as being the site where Garibaldi landed with his Thousand when he began his conquest of Sicily in 1860. Its history is also entwined with the stories of Nelson, and a handful of English wine merchants throughout the 19th century who made the name of Marsala synonymous with the wine we know today.

We drive north to visit a series of atmospheric saltpans. Started by the Phoenicians, the salt industry of Western Sicily became one of the most prolific in the Mediterranean and was crucial to the preservation of the tuna caught off the west coast of Sicily.

In the afternoon we visit the magical island of Mozia . Lying just a few hundred metres off the shore of Sicily and rising at its highest point to just a few metres above sea level, the island of Mozia was once the Carthaginian capital of Sicily – until its destruction by Dionysius in 379 BC.

Erice and Segesta: Elymian Sicily

We start the day with a drive to Erice.

Walking through the maze of cobbled streets that make up the medieval town of Erice , we pause to look into some of the most charming churches in Sicily, before arriving at the Castle – once the site of a statue Venus Ericina and home to an ancient fertility cult. From the ramparts of the castle we enjoy some spectacular views over the west of Sicily – Trapani, the salt pans, Mozia, Marsala.

In the afternoon, we drive to Segesta (1 hour) to visit what is perhaps the most beautifully sited Greek temple in the world. After musing on its origins in this Elymian city, we move onward to Palermo.

Evening meal and overnight in the historic centre of Palermo.

Walking tour of Palermo

Today we enjoy the marvels of Sicily’s largest and most important city: Palermo . Until the end of the nineteenth century, the city was surprisingly small and compact, which makes it perfect for exploring on foot.

Palermo is everything you would imagine it to be – chaotic, noisy, exotic, colourful. But the rewards of taking time to explore this incredible city are enormous. Indeed, we would go as far as saying that no visit to Sicily is complete without it. Founded by the Carthaginians, its history is as old as the island – but most of what we are in Palermo to see, dates from the Norman period and later.

We begin with a visit to the Ballarò market where we enjoy a raucous exposition of colour, smells and stall-holders advertising their wares in the local dialect.

Once we have had our fill of the market, we stroll to the Quattro Canti and the so-called “ Fountain of Shame ” in Piazza Pretoria, before visiting the church of the Martorana : with some of the finest Byzantine/Norman mosaics in all Sicily. As we stroll through the medieval city, our guide tells us about the cosmopolitan nature of the medieval city and explains the important contributions of the Arabs, the Jews and the Greeks to the city’s infrastructure: its water supply, it’s economy, and even its diet.

After lunch there is a chance to visit some of the “Serpotta” churches or perhaps the Teatro Massimo .

Alternatively, you are free to either relax or to stroll the streets of Palermo – perhaps visiting the Botanic gardens or the Piazza Marina.

This evening you are free to dine as you wish. Overnight in the historic centre of Palermo.

The Normans in Sicily: Monreale Cathedral and the Palatine Chapel

We drive the short distance to the Cathedral of Monreale (30 mins) – one of the greatest extant examples of Norman architecture in the world.

According to legend, in 1174, the Madonna appeared before the young Norman King William II and led him to a spot where his father had buried a considerable treasure. She instructed him to put it to good use and hence William founded this startling religious monument, high above the fertile Conca d’Oro . It was finished in less than ten years and a bustling medieval village soon sprang up around it.

After visiting the cathedral of Monreale, we descend into the city of Palermo .

We visit the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel – surely one of the wonders of Norman architecture anywhere in the world – with its incredible juxtaposition of Byzantine mosaics and beautiful arab paintings in the ceiling.

Evening meal in a local restauarant and overnight in the historical centre of Palermo.

Cefalù, Castelbuono and the Madonie Mountains

We leave Palermo and drive (1.5 hours) to the town of Castelbuono , where several scenes of the film Cinema Paradiso were shot. We then drive onward through the beautiful Madonie mountains to one of our favourite lunch spots, before descending to the coast once again to the town of Cefalù where we visit the splendid Norman cathedral and the beautiful medieval town.

After our visit to Cefalù, we travel onward to Milazzo.

We eat in a local restaurant and stay in Milazzo.

Capo Milazzo and Milazzo Castle

Every Italian schoolchild knows the importance of Milazzo in their country’s history. It was the scene of the decisive battle in the Risorgimento which saw Garibaldi’s red-shirts defeat the Bourbons and lead the way to the unification of Italy. Though there little is left of the scene of the battle, the recently-restored castle in Milazzo (one of the largest in Europe) is one of the lesser-known wonders of Sicily. We spend a pleasant couple of hours in the early morning visiting this castle.

After a light lunch, we drive to Taormina (1 hour) which is justifiably famous as one of the most splendid locations in Sicily. After settling in to the hotel there will be an opportunity to visit the splendid Greek theatre. In the later afternoon you have free time to stroll through the corso of Taormina and enjoy the rest of the afternoon as you wish.

Free evening and overnight in Taormina.

Mt. Etna ~ the largest Volcano in Europe

For those who wish, in the morning, we explore the slopes of Mount Etna , hearing about the fascinating geology of this, the highest volcano in Europe. There is an opportunity to take the cable car and jeeps to within 300m of the summit (ticket not included in the tour price).

We return in the early afternoon to Taormina when there will be free time to enjoy the town or the swimming pool at the hotel.

Farewell dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight in Taormina.

We end our Sicily tour travelling back to Catania airport (1 hour) from whence we say our goodbyes and depart.

For those whose travel is not until the evening, it is possible to enjoy a free day in Taormina – perhaps relaxing by the pooling or strolling the corso until it is time to drive to the airport.

Please note: this is the standard itinerary, but individual tour programmes may differ slightly to take account of local festivals, closing times and availability.

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Escorted and Package Tours in Sicily

Escorted General Interest Tours

Other factors to consider when choosing an escorted tour are the expected size of the group, and the demographics. There is better interaction and cohesion in a smaller group, while large groups are a little impersonal -- and there's always someone who's bound to get lost and hold up the bus. Ask specifically to whom a certain type of tour is aimed -- a couple on their honeymoon, for example, might not want to be on a busload of families with rowdy children.

The following are a list of reputable tour operators that have a wide range of tours to Sicily, for every budget.

Experience Sicily ( www.experiencesicily.com ) are highly immersive, small tours from a company with a real depth of expertise (they ONLY do tours to this region of Italy). Many tours have themes, like cooking or small-town life. The company can also put together custom itineraries for individuals hoping to travel independently, but with support.

Globus and Cosmos Tours are large, multi-national operations that cover the globe, with Globus (tel. 800/338-7092; www.globusandcosmos.com ) catering more to the budget-conscious traveler. Quality can vary greatly on these tours, but the prices are usually quite good.

Another choice is Insight Vacations (tel. 800/582-8380; www.insightvacations.com ), which offers several fast-paced itineraries in Sicily, some with options to visit regions of Southern Italy and Malta, too. For a truly cultural immersion Smithsonian Journeys (tel. 855/330-5158; www.smithsonianjourneys.com ), in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution, offers tours of the island aimed at better understanding the art and history of Sicily, with lectures held by local experts in the field.

For more options, including walking, biking and other specialty tours, look at such marketplace sites as TourRadar or  StrideTravel .

Packages for the Independent Traveler

Package tours can be as basic as air travel and hotel to an all-inclusive package that may include meals, guided tours, transfers to and from airports, and so on. While on the one hand everything is planned out and (hopefully) sorted for you from beginning to end, on the other it allows minimum flexibility, which is something to think about if you are an adventure-seeker and like to decide on your sleeping accommodations as you go along. If basing your choices on price range, search engines will often show you very different packages for the same price, but analyze carefully: If one package includes a flight with lots of connections to your destination but a very good three star hotel, another may offer a direct flight but an absolute rat hole as a hotel room. Read the fine print carefully about what's included in the package. If you need specific accommodations (an extra bed in the room or a bathroom that allows wheelchair accessibility) request it, and get it in writing. Check what their policy is regarding cancellation fees: A dirt-cheap package almost always offers no cancellation refund while more expensive ones might allow some compensation.

Sometimes you may need to look no further than the airline companies themselves to book a package tour. All the major online travel companies such as Expedia ( www.expedia.com ), Travelocity ( www.travelocity.com ), and edreams ( www.edreams.com ) have packages to suit all ranges.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Colours of Sicily

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9-Day Sicily Sightseeing Tour

9 days, 1 country and 10 cities

Accommodation

8 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

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Vibrant palette of colors come alive on your tour of Sicily. Sip local wine on the slopes of Mount Etna, wander the chic streets of Taormina and meet the locals in colorful towns and villages. Top it all off with a sweet treat – all the Modican chocolate you can lay your hands on.

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9 days itinerary trip from Palermo to Catania visiting 1 country and 10 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Palermo, Monreale, Valley of the Temples, Ragusa, Syracuse and Taormina 

Discover Modica 

Visit Monreale Norman Cathedral, Erice, Infersa Mill in Marsala, Valley of the Temples, the Syracuse Archaeological Museum, Ortygia and the Greek Theater in Taormina

View Mount Etna 

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Frequently asked questions

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What is a definite departure?

A departure is shown as 'Definite Departure' once it has reached a minimum number of guests. That particular departure will definitely run, barring any extraordinary circumstances. We update these regularly, and you can book any departure. While it is highly unlikely a departure doesn't meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made if this is the case. If there are ever any changes to your departure, we will contact you.

How can I book flights for my tour? What about extra hotel nights?

You can add flights and extra hotel nights directly through Trafalgar, so that everything is taken care of, leaving you to relax and enjoy your tour.

If you're booking online, once you've selected your travel dates and room type, you'll be offered an option to add extra hotel nights and flights.

Alternatively, you call us to book and one of our travel experts can advise on your options.

How much is the deposit for a Trafalgar tour?

On most of our departures, you can secure your trip today with a low deposit from just $200

What are the different kinds of experiences available?

Each Trafalgar tour has a carefully-selected range of included experiences to help immerse yourself in a destination. But did you know that every tour also has a Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience? Be My Guest Experiences are the original local travel experience, letting you step into the lives of hosts who will share stories about their families and communities. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences that give back to the local communities, which support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours also include a selection of Optional Experiences which are available for an additional cost, allowing you to make your trip your own.

Can I join a Trafalgar tour as a solo traveller?

A guided tour is the perfect way to solo travel. You'll meet like-minded people travelling with Trafalgar, and you'll relax knowing you can travel with ease, forming genuine connections as you go. To find out more solo room types and pricing select your preferred departure date and continue to the next page.

Where can I find room options?

Once you've selected your preferred departure date, on the next step add the number of guests to review the available room options and find the one that suits you best.

How can I apply my past guest discount?

It's great to have you back on board - the loyalty of our guests means everything to us. To access your Global Tour Rewards discount, please confirm the name and date of your past trip once you've added your passenger details. The discount will be applied before you book.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Sicily: A Cultural Journey

12 days   |   14 days with Taormina Region extension

4.6 out of 5 stars

The Sicilian sun shines light on a different side of Italy.

In the midst of the Mediterranean, discover an island with personality all its own—full of flavor and teeming with one-of-a-kind art and architecture. From multicultural Palermo to breathtaking Taormina, each stop on this tour of Sicily reveals unexpected treasures.

Your tour package includes

• 10 nights in handpicked hotels
• 10 breakfasts
• 4 dinners with beer or wine
• 1 wine tasting
• 1 food tasting
• 8 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides
• Private deluxe motor coach

Included highlights

• Cappella Palatina
• Monreale Cathedral
• Agrigento's Greek ruins
• Piazza Armerina
• Syracuse Cathedral
• Views of Mount Etna
• Taormina's Greek theater

Overnight Flight 1 night

Day 1: travel day.

Board your overnight flight to Palermo today.

Palermo 3 nights

Day 2: arrival in palermo.

Included meal : Welcome dinner

Welcome to Italy! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner.

Start planning today

Our travel experts are here to help.

We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.

Hotel Mercure Palermo Centro

This modern hotel is located in the Palermo city center. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a bar, and a spacious lobby. Nearby, you’ll find the Teatro Politeama, Teatro Massimo, and Via Roma.

Federico II Palace Hotel

This countryside hotel is located in Enna. Guests enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools, spa and elegant on-site restaurant. Nearby you’ll find the Vallone di Campo della Corte Nature Reserve, Lombardy Castle, and the Enna Cathedral.

Grand Hotel Villa Politi

This grand hotel is located near the historic archeological zone. Guests enjoy a restaurant, bar, and spa. Nearby, you’ll find the Greek Theater of Syracuse, Temple of Apollo, and Ortigia island footbridge.

Excelsior Palace Hotel Taormina

This historic hotel is located in the city center. Guests enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, sun deck, and restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find Corso Umberto, the Greek Theater, and Taormina Cathedral.

Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.

Add our airfare and you’ll get:

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes

Find out more about flights

• In order to enter Italy, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code SFS.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Palermo and depart from Catania.
• Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who booked their own flights are responsible for securing their own airport transfers.
• When you arrive in Palermo, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• One 1-night stay
• 3 full days of included activities in a row (more if you add excursions)
• All transportation by motor coach
• Daily drive time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day—this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Stone and marble walkways may be slippery even when dry.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour.

Climate Considerations

• In the summer months, June-September, travelers can expect high temperatures from 70sF -80sF and lows from 50sF-60sF with occasional extreme heatwaves.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pacing questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team.
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must be able to manage their luggage throughout tour; porters aren’t guaranteed at hotels or airports.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• In case of emergencies, we also recommend packing your medical insurance card in your carry-on.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, and local charm.
• Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-four-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators.
• Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure.
• Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our buses can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• Italy operates on the European standard 220-240 volts and use Types C, F, or L plugs with two or three small, round pins.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes 4 dinners: They may be set menus, buffets, or family-style meals, depending on the location. Dinners also include one glass of beer, wine, or a soft drink, as well as water, coffee, and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• The cuisine of Southern Italy is often what diners think of when imagining Italian flavors—pasta with tomato sauces, olives and olive oil, zucchini, veal, and fish are all featured prominently on menus throughout the region.
• Sicilian cuisine in particular is heavily influenced by Spanish, Greek, and Arab traditions. The Spanish brought New World influences to the region in the form of tomatoes, chocolate, and maize, while the Arab influence can be tasted in recipes that include rice, spinach, saffron, and citrus fruits. Regional specialties include arancini, cannoli, and granita.
• For more authentic meals, try local trattorias, small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in USD.
• We recommend tipping $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don’t already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your Tour Director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To help you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend downloading the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. It’s free and provides information about important deadlines and entry requirements, as well as your detailed itinerary, packing tips, and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the app’s chat feature.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Italy is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and six hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.
• When you travel with Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can have an enormous socioeconomic impact on communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at small businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: Be aware of monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market; learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette; and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• Go Ahead Tours encourages travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single-use plastics. You can cut back on generating plastic waste by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.

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Overall rating based on 337 traveler reviews

Showing 1 - 6 of 337 traveler reviews

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Peggy, traveled in Feb 2024

From our delightful and informative guide, Iona, to the wonderful new friends we met on our Cultural Experience, Sicily was more than we expected. EF took every step to insure our accommodations were prepared, baggage handled, excursions planned with incredible meals. I would... Read more of Sicily Is Sensational

1st-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in May 2024

Had a wonderful time in Sicily, I especially loved the small, quaint villages. The food was amazing. Our tour guide ( Rosa) and our driver ( Salvatore) were terrific, so kind and entertaining. The sights were spectacular, the excursion to the Contessa’s villa was one I won’t... Read more of Beautiful Sicily

2nd-time traveler William, traveled in Jun 2024

BLUF: Rosa, the tour director, was amazing - I would go on any tour she led anywhere. This tour was my first trip to any location in Europe. During my time in the US Navy, I have been essentially everywhere between Japan and Kenya and Australia. Rosa made sure that everyone on... Read more of Sicily was my first trip to Europe - For The Win!

This was a fantastic trip. The cities and small villages that we visited were amazing. The people of Sicily were so friendly. Taormina was the best way to end, it was a beautiful city, wish we could have had more time there. The food all over Sicily was delicious. Our tour guide... Read more

1st-time traveler Carol, traveled in Apr 2023

Traveled all over the globe ... Go Ahead was the most organized and awesome travel group on every level ...

6th-time traveler Minerva, traveled in Jun 2024

This tour to Sicily was wonderful. Rosa the tour guide was terrific and the bus driver Salvatore was an excellent bus driver. Locations were beautiful and the group wax one of the best we have traveled with.

Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Sicily

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10 best fully guided Sicily tours

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Melissa Sicily travel expert at TourRadar

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 8 days

Sicilian secrets - tour of sicily 10 days from palermo, sicilian landscapes: catania-catania (8 days/7 nights), best of sicily - 8 days (small group tour), magical sicily - 7 days, small group sicily food & wine tour (maximum 8 guests), splendor of sicily 8 days tour - from catania, new tour of sicily from palermo 10 days, small group tour of sicily: highlights (maximum 8 guests), absolute sicily: palermo - palermo (10 days/9 nights).

“This is not a restful holiday but you see so much of Sicily, and it would not be possible to visit all the sites on your own in the same time.” Lin Macmillan, traveled in May 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Taste award-winning Modica chocolate
• Visit the majestic Norman Cathedral in Monreale
• Tour Marsala's historic Florio Cellars

“The tour guides with rich knowledge of the attractions, we learned a lot from them; and we tasted lots of typical Sicilian dishes and they were delicious.” QueenieLee, traveled in November 2019

• Discover the Valley of the Temples
• Stroll through medieval Cefalù
• Tour Marsala's historic wine cellars

“Sicily is a stunning island holding new surprises around every corner and this round trip allowed us to see so much of its great beauty in a very comfortable way.” Sabine Bittner, traveled in September 2019

• Visit the impressive Arab-Norman Cathedral in Monreale
• Tour the Archaeological Park of Neapolis
• Discover baroque treasures in Modica

“It was a great over all trip around the island. Saw a good bit and had a good time.” Charles Johnson, traveled in October 2022

• Hike Mount Etna and taste volcanic wines
• Discover Godfather film locations in Savoca
• Walk through Syracuse's historic Ortigia

“The tour was well organized and well thought out. The destinations were interesting and fun.” WILLIAM PRESTON, traveled in April 2024

• Taste Marsala wine in a traditional tavern
• Explore the Cathedral of Monreale
• Discover Ragusa's baroque architecture

“The accommodations were terrific. The food was excellent and abundant.” James Burruano, traveled in April 2024

• Food & Culinary
• Wine tasting
• Taste the best Sicilian wines and learn the secrets of how it is produced
• Discover the very best of Sicily through its rich cuisine and colourful street food
• Delve into culture and learn cooking tricks in typical Sicilian family trattoria

“We saw a lot of amazing and beautiful places in Sicily, some with local guides, ate a lot of delicious food and were entertained.” Jen Humphries, traveled in May 2023

• Discover the breathtaking sights of the beautiful Siracusa
• Soak up the vibes of Sicily and indulge in traditional food
• Visit the magnificent Mt. Etna - Europe's highest volcano

“Went everywhere and most of the included meals were great.” Gina Jones, traveled in August 2023

• Enjoy dinner and a wine tasting in Marsala
• Have lunch next to the mythic Arethusa’s Fountain
• Marvel at Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe

“The booking process was seamless and painless. The included lunches and other meals were top notch.” Maria Kaminski Paulus, traveled in April 2024

• Experience Sicily though its incredible gastronomy, wines, art and music
• Be accompanied by local guides who know it best and know Sicily secrets
• Get a full immersion that's rich in history, traditions and culture of the island

“We loved seeing Sicily and thought the tours' choices of cities and hotels were satisfying.” Barry Samuels, traveled in October 2022

• Visit Etna and taste local honey
• Tour the ancient Valley of the Temples
• Explore Monreale's Arab-Norman Cathedral

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Our Small Group Tours

Captivating sicily small group tour - 12 days/11 nights, discover the secrets of sicily.

Experience authentic Sicilian lifestyle and culture with our small group tour. This tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in Sicily’s idyllic climate, from the stunning Mediterranean coasts and beaches to the fertile valleys and mountainous regions. Sicily has a diverse culture all its own, just waiting to be discovered.

Fall in love with the dramatic vistas that paint the perfect backdrop as we travel from region to region, tasting locally grown authentic Sicilian cuisine. Our food is steeped in centuries of history and kept alive today, with many local seafood and vegetable markets prospering. This abundance of in-season produce allows the chefs and home cooks of Sicily to create some truly dynamic dishes. Learn to cook meals like Caponata or a fresh Pasta alla Norma, perfectly paired with a regional wine that will delight your senses. Homemade treats like rich cannoli and pistachio pastries are a must for dessert.

Sicily boasts 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites and hundreds of archaeological treasures like the Byzantine mosaics in the cathedral of Monreale and the 5th-century ruins of Siracusa. See a bit of Greece in Italy at the Valley of the Temples, a cluster of Greek temple ruins that will transport you back in time. On this tour, there’s ample time to wander ornate churches, relax on scenic beaches, and soak in the Sicilian sun each day. Unique sites like these, a rich history, culture, and food accompanied by picturesque landscapes make Sicily “Italy’s best-kept secret.” This small group tour weaves these elements like a tapestry, along with some time to explore on your own to create an authentic Sicilian vacation and memories that will last a lifetime.

Check out what our friends are saying about this tour on  Tripadvisor !

Upcoming Tour Dates 12 Days/11 Nights

Pricing: € 4,300.

Price is per person based on double room occupancy Single supplement available on request

Experience the beauty

Tour Highlights

• Guided tour of Palermo and Monreale
• Guided tour of Ortiga Island and the archaeological site of Neapolis
• Tour of Taormina, a beautiful Mediterranean garden at the foot of Mount Etna
• A tour of the majestic Greek Theatre
• A cruise around Isola Bella, a small island off the coast of Taormina (weather permitting)
• Visit the Siracusa open market and sample local wines
• Tour multiple ancient sites, such as the Valley of the Temples, Segesta Temple, and other popular UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Experience the charming countryside towns of Noto, Ragusa, hidden gems like Savoca, Erice, and the romantic fishing village of Cefalu’
• Seafood dinner on the golden sand beaches of Giardini Naxos
• A home-cooked meal in a quaint Sicilian village
• Grasp all about the Mafia and its history in Corleone
• Learn about the history of salt mining at the Museum of Salt near Nubia
• Personalized cooking class in an authentic Italian villa
• Cable car trip to Isola Bella in Taormina with panoramic views (weather permitting)
• Wine tasting in a local winery near Mount Etna

Overnight Accomodations

Eurostars Centrale Palace ( or similar)

Palermo – 3 nights

Baglio della Luna (or similar)

Agrigento – 1 night

Algila' Charme Hotel ( or similar)

Siracusa – 3 nights

Hotel Villa Paradiso (or similar)

Taormina – 4 nights

Hotel Casa Adele (or similar)

Tour itinerary, day 1: step back in time in palermo.

Palermo sits perfectly around a sweeping harbor with a view of Monte Pellegrino from the city. The city was pivotal for the Arab Emirate in the 10th century, and their architecture and influence can be seen throughout the city. Palermo is best known for its stunning cathedrals and churches, palaces, and piazzas. We’ll begin our morning tour from our hotel with a guided walking tour of Palermo. Learn everything there is to know about this melting pot of civilizations as you wander the narrow alleys and marvel at the artistic Palatine Chapel and Royal Palace. Afterward, we’ll head to the Mercato Ballarò, for a taste of authentic Sicilian life. Our last activity of the day is exploring the historic Opera House. We will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local tavern.

Meals : Breakfast & lunch on your own, dinner included

Accommodations : Overnight in Palermo

Day 2: Ancient Segesta To Trapani Salt Pans

Our second day begins with a panoramic road trip through the hilly countryside to visit the ancient ruins of Segesta, most famous for its unfinished 5th-century Doric temple. Marvel at the well-preserved ruins that have stood the test of time as you walk through the site.  Afterward, we’ll continue to the medieval hill town of Erice, which boasts stunning panoramic views of the landscape and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria before descending the mountain over the Trapani countryside.The last activity for the day is the Museum of Salt, where you’ll learn all about the rich salt pans and cultivation in this region. Later on, we will return to Palermo.

Meals:  Breakfast & lunch included, dinner on your own

Accommodations:  Overnight in Palermo

Day 3: Biblical Monreale To Bella Cefalu’

Day three of the tour starts in the hills of Palermo to discover the fruitful town of Monreale. Most known as the home of one of Sicily’s greatest sites, the 12th-century Norman Cathedral. We’ll have some time here to wander inside toward the golden mosaics that depict intricate biblical stories. After that, we’ll head to the seaside and visit the romantic fishing village of Cefalu’. Everywhere you look is postcard-worthy, from the streets to the churches and squares, you’re sure to fall in love with its beauty. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Palermo for an evening of exploring on your own.

Meals:  Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own

Day 4: History Of The Mafia In Corleone To Ancient Greeks In Agrigento

Today, we move on from Palermo and head towards Agrigento. As we drive southwest, we’ll make a stop in Corleone, the birthplace of several mafia bosses. A local community member will give a talk on the history of the mafia and the role they play today. When we arrive at the ancient city of Agrigento, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Valley of The Temples. This concentration of Ancient Greek temples was once one of the most important cities in the ancient world and a prime example of the grandeur of the Magna Grecia. Tonight’s stay is a tranquil countryside boutique hotel with an included dinner

Meals:  Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own

Accommodations:  Overnight in Agrigento

Day 5: Miraculous Mosaics & Elegant Siracusa

The day begins with a road trip through the Sicilian countryside. We’ll stop at our second UNESCO World Heritage site, the Roman villa, built in the early 4th century. This unique villa contains some of the largest and richest collections of Roman mosaics in the world. After a hearty local lunch, we’ll continue to Siracusa for the next three nights at a charming central boutique hotel. You’ll have the evening at your leisure to discover the wonders of Siracusa.

Meals:  Breakfast and lunch included, dinner on your own

Accommodations:  Overnight in Siracusa

Day 6: Tapestry Of Cultures In Ortigia

In the morning, we will visit a significant outpost of the Greek Empire with a local expert. The city has an incredible historical heritage, including the Greek Theatre, the Latomie del Paradiso, and the Ear of Dionysus. We’ll see numerous Baroque townhouses that were rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake and the Piazza Duomo, which is dominated by the Cathedral and its Baroque facade and the Temple of Athena behind it. After exploring the archaeological site, we will head to a lively market to taste local fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Following this, you can wander around Siracusa and enjoy the warm evening.

Accommodations:  Overnight in Siracusa

Day 7: Baroque Treasures Of Ragusa & Noto

On a full-day trip from Siracusa, we will venture southeast to see beautiful Sicilian Baroque architecture. First, stopping in the ancient town of Ragusa Ibla to get lost in its labyrinth of crooked lanes and tiny piazzas. We’ll then pause at an ancient Palazzo with some time on your own for sightseeing and lunch. Afterwards, depart to the town of Noto, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, where we will discover its unique limestone structures, which were part of the rebuild after the 1693 earthquake. Fall in love with Noto’s stunning honey-colored buildings and famous domed cathedral. Dinner this evening is included at a local restaurant.

Meals:  Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own

Day 8: From Catania To Timeless Taormina Along The Cyclops Coastline

Today, we depart from Siracusa to Taormina, one of the most ancient destinations in Sicily. On the way, we will pass the vibrant city of Catania with some time to explore. Consider visiting the Cathedral of St Agatha, the Bellini Theatre, or the Villa Gardens for beautiful examples of Baroque architecture. We will continue along the Cyclops coast, named for Homer’s “ The Odyssey ,” onto the house of a Sicilian family for a home-hosted lunch. We will spend the last four nights at a small boutique hotel located in the center of the town. Enjoy dinner and wander the town at your leisure.

Accommodations:  Overnight in Taormina

Day 9: Hidden Treasures Of Taormina & Savoca

This morning we will arrange a guided tour of Taormina. Its origins go back to the time of Dionysius in about 400 BC. It remained an important city during the Greek and Roman periods and the Theatre and Odeon still survive as reminders of those times. Taormina is filled with elegant mansions and palaces that date back to the Middle Ages, as well as several ornate churches. This includes the 15th-century cathedral of St Pancras’. After an included visit to the ancient theater, our tour continues in one of Sicily’s hidden gem towns: Savoca. This quaint little town is perched near the Peloritani Mountains and is home to alluring stone cottages and haunting churches that dominate the skyline. It has remained unchanged since medieval times. We will visit the 18th-century Bar Vitelli and the church of St Lucia before returning to Taormina. Dinner is included this evening on a private beach in the fishing village of Giardini Naxos

Accommodations:  Overnight in Taormina.

Day 10: Traversing Mount Etna & Winery Tour

Today’ journey sees us venturing out to discover the majestic Mount Etna, the highest and largest volcano in Europe. Currently, she sits at 11,000 feet above sea level and is one of the world’s most active. We will explore the landscape and see the endemic flora and fauna of this region before heading to the village of Linguaglossa to visit a locally owned winery. Here, we will sample the unique wines that flourish in this volcanic region, accompanied by some Sicilian appetizers.

Meals:  Breakfast and light lunch included, dinner on your own

Day 11: Isola Bella Cruise & An Authentic Cooking Class

This morning we’ll descend by cable car (weather permitting) to Mazzaro’ for a 2hrs private boat tour around the Isola Bella island to admire the coastline and some local caves. You’ll have the rest of the morning on your own to shop, explore and relax in Taormina. We recommend sitting in a quiet cafe or bar and enjoying the time pass sweetly and slowly, or in Italian we would say “ Dolce Far Niente ”. In the late afternoon, we will meet to celebrate this magnificent Sicilian tour with an authentic cooking class with our friend Luisa. What better souvenir to take home than a beautiful Italian meal you can eat repeatedly?

Accommodations:  Overnight in Taormina

Day 12: Arrivederci Sicilia

Today, we will depart from our tour with morning transfers to Catania airport and train station

Book your tour to Sicily today

Additional information.

• Small group tour of 12-14 participants
• Knowledgeable tour director in English
• Entrance fees for all archaeological sites
• Tour transportation in a private air-conditioned motor coach
• Local guides in Palermo, Monreale, Corleone, Agrigento, Roman Villa, Siracusa and Taormina
• Hotel city and service taxes at all accommodations and restaurants are included
• All breakfasts, four lunches, and five dinners are covered. Main meals include wine, mineral water, espresso, or tea
• Transfers to your hotel and airport at scheduled times. We suggest arriving a day or two before the tour begins to acclimate to the time zone
• Baggage transfers or porters
• Activity level: Light/Moderate
• Terms & Conditions/single supplement  and  FAQ
• Travel insurance  and visa fees/Trip Interruption & Cancellation Insurance
• Any charges for extras not listed in the itinerary
• Room services, telephone charges, laundry fees
• Gratuities for the tour director and local driver
• Single room supplement

Tour Reviews

The best sicily tour.

Hello Aldo and Katrin,

Abigail Harman, my wife has recently emailed you telling you of our marvelous experiences on our recent ‘Secret Sicily’ tour. Basically, Abbe has stolen my thunder in that she has said pretty much what I was going to say. However, I have a few tributes to add.First and foremost, Ambra was a mazing. As Abbe says: always cheerful and absolutely full of the history and folklore of Sicily. She was often on her phone, when we were with local guides or fully occupied with something else; clearly, she was phoning ahead to make sure we had a seamless experience with hotels, guides, and buses. Which we did.But anyone can look good when things are going well; it’s when things fall apart that one can tell who are the professionals and who the amateurs. We had an issue with a bus breaking down which Ambra handled superbly. No fuss—no panic—just a smooth transition along with her ever-smiling face and capable demeanour. Without doubt she is a class act. We were very lucky to get her. You are very lucky to employ her. Whatever you do… don’t let her go.Secondly, the tour was very comprehensive in its coverage. I’m a writer and a historian. I have read, among other books on Sicily, John Julius Norwich’s ‘History of Sicily’ so I was anxious to see all the great historical sites—from the Phoenicians through to the Bourbon Kings—that he mentions. I reckon we saw them all—certainly, most of them. I had wanted to book a cultural tour of Sicily with Martin Randall, a British tour group, but they were fully booked. I’m glad now that they were as I reckon your tour covered almost as much as theirs—and we had so much more fun.Of course, we were lucky with the group: firstly, because not only were there so few of us (nine) but also because everyone in the group was a kind and caring individual. No one was loud; no one was selfish; no one wanted to dominate and be top dog. We had twelve days of very warm and smooth relations. We were collegiate yet also allowed each other space. The people you get on a group is, of course, luck… but we felt sorry for the big groups or 30 or more. We were like a family.There were too many excellent experiences for me to list them all, but I do want to highlight our last evening when we had a cookery class and dinner at Villa Britannia. I’m not a cook, and I didn’t go to Sicily for the food but for the history, so I was the worst at the food preparation—which amused everyone immensely. What made the evening memorable was the fact the Villa Britannia is next to the house rented by the great English writer D H Lawrence when he was in Taormina. Louisa Vittorio, has recently inherited the house and she showed us around the place—including the room where D H Lawrence wrote some of his most famous poems. It’s still pretty much as it was almost 100 years ago. For me that was a wonderful, spine-chilling experience. I may be able to help Louisa in a small way by putting her in touch with D H Laurence appreciation societies.I could keep going with this email, but I think I’ve said all I need to say. For Abbe and me the holiday was the experience of a lifetime. We’ve had some excellent historically themed holidays—Iran, and twice in Turkey but I think Secret Italia might just be the best one we’ve ever had.

So… thank you. And please thank Ambra when you are next in touch. Send her love and hugs from Abbe and me.

A tour of Sicily FAVOLOSO

Hello Aldo,

I’ve been in education my whole life- and yet my wife and I were both “wowed” by this wonderful trip.

First, the mix of activities- archaeological sites, churches and historical places was very good. However, the highlights of the tour focused on the real secrets of Sicily- the people. Our stay at the win ery (by Argimento) was nothing short of amazing. The same for the visit to Gambino Winery (home of my grandfather), the dinner with Rita and Susana, and the farewell dinner with Lucia. Bravo!

But the tour would not have been the same without Ambra. She is so knowledgeable about the history and culture of Sicily that we take away a deep appreciation for beautiful Sicily. What’s more, she went out of her way to make all the passengers comfortable. She was a true friend while we were here. I think there were tears all around when we said goodbye last night.

Also, we were very glad to take this tour and hopefully we have an opportunity to take another one.

A Wonderful Treat

This trip exceeded my expectations. Each destination was a gem, with so much to discover and learn from our guides along the way. Ambra, our guide, was brilliant in every way, taking care of the myriad details involved with utter transparency, care and charm. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for our group members. Our driver, Mario, was always prompt, careful, and attentive to comfort and safety. Sicily was the real star of the show. What a trip to savor. Grazie Aldo and Karen and the SecretItalia team.

So glad to have booked this tour. Our guide, Giuse, was knowledgeable about all things Sicily and ensured our transportation, hotels, and restaurants were smooth and top notch. Aldo was a good communicator before as and, always prompt.

A Great Tour of Sicily

We traveled with the same group that included Joe and Judi, who left a separate evaluation of the Sicily tour. My wife and I agree with Joe and Judi’s comments. Giusi was a phenomenal tour guide – always on top of everything and very helpful with ideas and planning. The meals arranged for the group on the tour were outstanding, and the tour pace was just right. We were able to see and experience a lot of Sicily but not feel pressed. This was very well balanced between touring, experiencing local culture and having time to ourselves. Hotels were all top notch. It is very apparent that Aldo and Katrin have taken close personal interest in making these tours very well-planned and fulfilling. We would definitely be enthusiastic about doing another tour with Secret Italy – extremely good value for the cost.

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$2699—Sicily & Malta 9-night guided trip from Raleigh

Explore two dreamy islands off the coast of Italy, each with its own charm.

Why We Love This Deal

Explore ornate architecture in Palermo,  Agrigento and Syracuse. Sample fresh arancini in Catania. S troll through the  Barrakka Gardens in Valletta and visit Mdina and Rabat.  On this Italy and Malta guided tour, you'll experience each country's rich history and culture. 

What's included in thi s 9-night trip :

• Roundtrip, open-jaw flights from the U.S. to Palermo; St. Julian's to the U.S.
• 9 nights' accommodations in well-reviewed hotels
• VIP guided sightseeing with local guides
• Full breakfast daily, one lunch and four dinners
• Private transportation via motor coach  with an expert tour director
• Transfers between airport and hotels
• Taxes and fees
• One checked bag per person

Depart on Feb. 2 or 9, 2025, for the following per-person prices:

• $2499 ... New York
• $2599 ... Boston, Chicago, Miami
• $2699 ... Austin, Cleveland, Denver, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, San Diego, Seattle, Tampa
• $2799 ... Cincinnati; Jacksonville; Washington, D.C.
• $2899 ... Houston (IAH), Orlando, San Francisco
• $2999 ... Atlanta, Detroit

Additional dates, including small-group tours,  start at +$150 per person on select dates February – March. See our partner's website for more details. 

Options: Explore Sicily and Malta in the  summer  from $3799 per person. 

Book by Sept. 28.

When You Can Go

February 2025; March on sale

$1700 vs. similar trips

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How to Book

Mention  " Sicilian Escape with Malta "  and vacation code  KIMX to receive this offer. 

The single-supplement waiver and single-room capacities are limited; please call for availability.

The reservations center is open Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m.–3 p.m. MT.

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