8 Day Best of Sicily – Small Group Tour Package

Highlights

• Arrive at Catania Airport with a private transfer to Taormina, then join an expert guide for a walking tour and Sicilian food and wine experience
• Godfather vs Mafia Tour through the mountain villages of Savoca and Forza d'Agro, with aperitif and traditional Sicilian lunch at the legendary Vitelli Bar
• Hike Mount Etna's Silvestri Craters from Sapienza Refuge (1,900m) and enjoy volcanic wine tasting and lunch at an Etna winery
• Guided walking tour of UNESCO Baroque Noto with Modica chocolate tasting and a traditional fish lunch in the fishing village of Marzamemi
• Walking tour of Ortigia Island in Syracuse – Apollo Temple, Archimedes Fountain, the Jewish Quarter and Duomo Square
• Guided tour of the UNESCO Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and seasonal lunch at a local taverna
• 2-hour walking tour of Palermo's old town – Martorana Church, Piazza Pretoria, Quattro Canti and Palermo Cathedral, finishing with a glass of local wine
• 7 nights in centrally located 4-star hotels with daily breakfast, 4 lunches and 1 dinner included – maximum 8 guests

8-Day Best of Sicily Tour Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1

   Welcome to Sicily – First Impressions of Taormina

   Your Sicily tour begins as you arrive at Catania Airport, where your personal driver will escort you to your luxury hotel in the charming town of Taormina. In the late afternoon, you will meet your expert guide for a walking tour of Taormina, where you'll uncover the hidden gems of this historic town. Discover the fascinating Baroque architecture that characterises much of the town's buildings, and enjoy the best Sicilian wines along the way. You'll also have the opportunity to savour Sicilian food, including fresh local dishes. In the evening, immerse yourself in Taormina's vibrant nightlife and sample more of the local food and wine at your leisure.

2. 2

   Day 2

   Discovering the Villages of Savoca and Forza d'Agro – A Mafia Tale

   After breakfast, you'll be picked up from your hotel for a fascinating journey into the Sicilian mountains, visiting the villages of Savoca and Forza d'Agro. These small towns are famous for being the backdrop to scenes from The Godfather trilogy. Your guide will explain the influence of the Sicilian mafia on both these villages and the island's history. After exploring, enjoy a refreshing aperitif before heading to Vitelli Bar, where you'll savour a traditional Sicilian lunch featuring seasonal dishes. Later, return to Taormina for a leisurely evening to experience more of the town's nightlife or stroll through its ancient streets.

3. 3

   Day 3

   Exploring Mount Etna – Sicily's Active Volcano

   Today's journey takes you to Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Starting at the Sapienza Refuge at 1,900 metres above sea level, you'll explore the Silvestri Craters and learn about the incredible volcanic activity that has shaped the landscape of Sicily. After this volcanic adventure, head to a local winery for a tasting of volcanic wines — produced from the grapes grown on Mount Etna's slopes, giving them a distinctive flavour. A light lunch of Sicilian food will also be served at the winery. Later, return to Taormina for an evening at leisure.

4. 4

   Day 4

   Noto and Baroque Architecture – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

   This morning, you'll head to Noto — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Baroque architecture. As you wander through the beautiful streets, your guide will explain the rich Sicilian history that shaped the city, and you'll admire its grand churches, palaces and plazas. Don't miss tasting Modica chocolate, a famous Sicilian delicacy crafted in the region for centuries. After exploring Noto, enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch of fresh fish in the picturesque fishing village of Marzamemi. Then head to Syracuse, where you'll have free time to explore the ancient Old Town with its impressive ruins and vibrant atmosphere.

5. 5

   Day 5

   Walking Tour of Ortigia Island, Syracuse Old Town & Apollo Temple

   Start your day in Syracuse with a delicious Sicilian breakfast at your hotel, then join your local guide for a walking tour of Ortigia Island — Syracuse's vibrant and historic old town. This picturesque area is a treasure trove of ancient architecture, including the magnificent Apollo Temple, one of the oldest temples in Sicily. As you stroll along Via Cavour, you'll experience the rich culture of Ortigia, where local artists and Sicilian aristocrats gather.

   The tour also takes you to the Archimedes Fountain and through the Jewish Quarter, where you'll learn about the city's fascinating history dating back to the 3rd century BC. The heart of Ortigia is Duomo Square, where the stunning Duomo and the Church of St. Lucy stand as testaments to the city's spiritual and architectural grandeur. After the tour, you'll have free time to explore the charming streets and local shops at your leisure.

6. 6

   Day 6

   Agrigento's UNESCO Temple Valley & Palermo, the Sicilian Capital

   Travel to Agrigento and visit the Valley of the Temples — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guided tour will take you through some of the most important ancient ruins. After the tour, enjoy a fresh seasonal lunch at a local taverna before continuing your journey to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. Relax during your free evening in Palermo, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of this historic city.

7. 7

   Day 7

   Walking Tour of Palermo – Authentic Palermitan Experience

   Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a 2-hour walking tour to discover the beauty of Palermo, Sicily's bustling capital. Meet your local guide at 10:00 AM for a fascinating tour through Palermo's old town, where history, culture and tradition come to life. Explore the Martorana Church, the stunning Piazza Pretoria, Quattro Canti, and the magnificent Palermo Cathedral. Along the way, learn about the city's diverse past and enjoy the vibrant Palermitan lifestyle. Finish the tour with a glass of typical Palermo wine, then spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the lively streets of Palermo's old town at your own leisure.

8. 8

   Day 8

   Departure from Palermo – Transfer to Palermo Airport

   On your last morning in Sicily, enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Palermo Airport for your departure. The option to book extra nights in Palermo or other regions of Sicily is available to further explore this beautiful island.

What's Included

Not Included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Optional Etna ascent to 3,000m
• Optional experiences
• Pre & post tour accommodation
• City tax (payable locally)
• Entrance fees at monuments/museums
• Meals not included in the programme
• Beverages
• Tipping for guide, driver and hotel staff
• Personal expenses
• Any item, product or service not specifically listed under Included

Additional Information

• You will receive an e-ticket for this tour.
• This tour operates year-round, subject to availability.
• Local licensed guide provided for all activities.
• This is a small group tour with a maximum of 8 participants.
• Tour reference code: 217419

Dates & Availability

Frequently Asked Questions