Embark on a 9-day journey through Sicily, exploring the Sicily’s vibrant capital Palermo and then head to the picturesque town of Cefalù. Explore the coastal town of Marsala, take a funicular ride to Erice, visit the nearby salt flats in Saline, the historic island of Mozia and discover the intricate mosaics of Monreale’s Cathedral before heading to the Valle dei Templi in Agrigento.
Explore the well-preserved Villa Romana del Casale, and visit the charming towns of Ragusa and Noto, both known for their Baroque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status. Explore the historic island of Ortigia, head to Taormina and enjoy a boat tour of the enchanting Aeolian Islands, followed by a 4×4 tour of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Conclude your journey in Catania and visit the coastal towns of Aci Castello and Aci Trezza.
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Welcome to Palermo!
Palermo is famous for its local markets, the good food and the marvelous buildings of the city center, such as the Norman Palace, the Palatine Chapel, the churches of the historic center and the Regional Gallery of Sicily.
Then, our knowledgeable english- speaking guide will lead us to explore the interiors of the Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele. We’ll show us the stunning auditorium and the most interesting halls of the third largest opera house in Europe.
With our english-speaking guide we’ll explore the city center of Cefalù, with the Jewish quarter, and the most beautiful jewel of Cefalù, its Basilica of the Transfiguration, (full entrance included) listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Located on the northern coast of Sicily, this cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture, renowned for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics adorning the apse, depicting scenes from the Bible.
We’ll explore Palermo’s magnificent Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015,. Our expert guide will show us both the interior and exterior of the Basilica of the Trasfiguration.
Afterward, we’ll visit the nearby Palazzo dei Normanni, housing the famous Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the renowned Cappella Palatina. This 12th-century chapel showcases a fusion of Western and Middle Eastern cultures, featuring Islamic designs, Byzantine mosaics, and golden decorations in the Arab-Norman-Byzantine style.
With our guide we’ll discover the historic center of the town, where you’ll be enchanted by its captivating Baroque architecture, winding streets, and the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Saint Thomas of Canterbury. Then, we’ll indulge our senses at a local winery, where we’ll delve into the world of Marsala wine, famous for its rich flavors.
Prepare for an adventure as we explore the captivating ‘saline‘ or salt pans, where we’ll witness the age-old art of sea salt harvesting set against a backdrop of picturesque windmills and crystal-clear lagoons.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Our journey continues with a delightful boat trip to the enchanting island of Mozia, nestled within the Stagnone Lagoon. Here, ancient Phoenician ruins await our discovery, including the extraordinary ‘Whitaker Museum‘ featuring the renowned ‘Youth of Mozia‘ statue.
To reach Erice the best way is to take the funicular from the parking and reach the top of this town. Here we’ll discover its narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and a remarkable collection of approximately 60 churches, each with its own unique history and architecture.
One of the highlights of Erice is the spectacular vista that awaits you from its hilltop location.
With our expert guide we’ll end the tour of Palermo visiting the The Church of Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio, well-known as “La Martorana” The Byzantine mosaics covering part of the interior are of significant interest, as well as the 17th Century frescos on the sub-choir, by Olivio Sozzi and Guglielmo Borremans. After the guided tour of the Church we’ll stroll around Ballarò street, where one of the most famous Sicilian markets is located. You will find fruits, vegetables, typical Sicilian street food.
Our guide will show us one of the symbol of Palermo, Monreale, which is just 5 kilometers from Palermo.
The cathedral is an architectural masterpiece of the 12th-century, in which different styles are linked together: the architecture of northern Europe, Romanesque art and Arabic art. Outside, it is richly decorated by two bronze doors and the interior is illuminated by magnificent gold mosaics that culminate in the Christ Pantocrator in the apsidal basin as the highest expression of figurative art.
It is the best-preserved Archaeological Park in all of Magna Graecia. You will explore the site which extends over approximately 1,300 hectares. You will learn about a millenary history that began in the 6th-century BC with the foundation of the ancient Greek colony of Akragas, see the terraced levels of the site that used to be a center of the public life of the ancient Greco-Romans and marvel at the aqueducts and walkthrough the core of the archaeological site of Agrigento.
We’ll discover the Roman Villa Romana del Casale in the town of Piazza Armerina in Sicily, one of the most precious jewels left by the Roman civilization in Sicily. Enjoy a guided tour of the villa, which probably belonged to Valerio Massimiano, a powerful patrician of the empire. Admire the spectacular mosaics as you relive the history of the greatest empire with scenes of daily life, depictions of heroes and deities, hunting scenes, and games.
With our guide we’ll see the most important buildings and monuments of
Ragusa Ibla using a fascinating Baroque train, from Piazza
Duomo to the Palazzo Arezzo di Donna Fugata, passing through the most important buildings and churches, like Chiesa di San Giorgio, Palazzo la Rocca, and the beautiful Iblei Gardens.
Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits atop a picturesque hill and is celebrated for its stunning baroque architecture. During the tour, we’ll have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Cathedral of St. Nicolò, a prime example of Sicilian baroque design. Another highlight of the tour is the Palazzo Nicolaci, an architectural gem adorned with impressive balconies and ornamental motifs.
Located at the park’s eastern end, and separated by a narrow channel, Ortygia is filled with Greek temples, Christian churches, and Arabian streets. We’ll discover the Arethusa fountain and Piazza del Duomo, where the baroque palaces, such as Beneventano del Bosco Palace and Senate Palace are among the most beautiful in Sicily.
Today we’ll discover the enchanting Aeolian Islands, nestled in the Tyrrhenian Sea just north of Sicily. This volcanic archipelago boasts seven main islands: Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi, and Alicudi. Each island offers its own unique charm, from stunning landscapes and idyllic beaches to crystal-clear waters and active volcanoes.
Now it’s time for a visit to Lipari, the largest island and the heart of the archipelago, where we’ll admire the picturesque Faraglioni, formed by ancient volcanic activity and sculpted by the elements. We’ll take a leisurely stroll along Vittorio Emanuele or via Garibaldi, immersing ourselves in the authentic Aeolian atmosphere amidst charming streets and shops.
Vulcano, the second active volcano in the group, still carries the scent of sulfur from its last eruption in 1888.
Embark on a guided bus tour (tickets included) to reach the “Gran Cratere della Fossa” and witness the breathtaking 360° panorama. We’ll also explore Vulcanello, the West Coast with the “Grotta del Cavallo,” “Piscina di Venere,” and the lion-shaped mountain.
The day will start with an exciting journey through Etna Park with our itinerary which combines 4×4 adventures with off-road routes and short walks.
We’ll also explore the remnants of lava flows that once threatened entire communities, visit dormant craters, and take in the breathtaking views from the Valle del Bove viewpoint.
We’ll descend into the heart of the volcano exploring a lava flow cave equipped with helmets and speleologist lights, which will give us a unique insight into the world of lava flows.
In the afternoon we’ll discover the grandeur of the Ancient Theater of Taormina, the largest show venue in the Italian Peninsula.
This Greek masterpiece, perched prominently, traces its origins to the III-II century B.C. in terms of layout. However, the monument we’ll behold today showcases its magnificent Roman imperial design, likely constructed during the reign of Emperor Trajan or Hadrian.
On our last day we’ll discover the beauty of Catania.
Our knowledgeable english-speaking guide will wander us through picturesque squares, and explore iconic landmarks, showing us the Ursino Castle and the Cathedral of St. Agata, the city’s main Catholic sanctuary, dedicated to the patron virgin and martyr, located in the historic heart of Piazza Duomo.
Now it’s time to discover the enchanting fishing village of Aci Trezza on Sicily’s eastern coast, renowned for its stunning coastline adorned with towering volcanic rock formations called “Faraglioni.”We’ll also delve into the legendary tales of the Cyclops from Homer’s “The Odyssey.”
Next on the top list: Aci Castello, another coastal gem in Sicily, boasts the historic “Castello Normanno” perched atop a lava rock overlooking the sea. This castle provides panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those in search of breathtaking coastal vistas (ticket included).
Min. 23 participants
Included:
Not included: