Sicily Art, Food & Wine Tour

This 8-day tour of Sicily starts in the vibrant city of Catania and takes you on a journey through the island’s most stunning destinations. Begin by exploring the charming town of Tindari and the picturesque coastal village of Cefalu before heading to Palermo and Erice where you’ll enjoy a visit to a traditional winery for a delightful wine tasting. Continue your adventure with a visit to the ancient archaeological site of Selinunte, followed by a stop in Agrigento to marvel at the Valley of the Temples. The tour also includes stops in the baroque city of Noto, the historical treasures of Siracusa and Ortigia, and ends with a visit to Taormina, where you’ll indulge in a tasting experience while soaking in the scenic beauty of this iconic hilltop town.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Palermo: the second largest historical centre in Europe with its largest number of UNESCO sites. Architecture in the city reflects the city's periods of Arab, Norman, and Spanish rule.

Agrigento: is best known as the city of temples, with its vast archaeological park that retains a string of five Greek temples and the ancient city walls that surrounded the place that was named Akragas.

Syracuse: a city notable for its rich Greek and Roman history, culture, and architecture. The birthplace and home of the pre-eminent mathematician and engineer Archimedes.

Taormina:  boasts a rich artistic, historical and cultural heritage that with its healthy climate and beautiful natural scenery, has attracted visitors since the middle of the eighteenth century.

Day 1: CATANIA ARRIVAL

Upon arrival at Catania Airport, transfer to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure discovering the city on your own.

Overnight in Catania.

Day 2: CATANIA – TINDARI – CEFALU – PALERMO (335km – 5hrs)

After breakfast, meet your local tour leader who will guide you throughout the day. Depart for Palermo and along the way, make a stop in the charming town of Tindari, where you can take a stroll with your tour leader to explore its historic centre. Continuing the journey, we will visit the picturesque medieval village of Cefalu, known for its narrow streets, rich history, and stunning architecture. Here, you will have time to explore the heart of the town and soak in its unique atmosphere. Arrive in Palermo and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Overnight in Palermo.

Day 3: PALERMO

After breakfast, today will be devoted to discovering the treasures of Palermo. We will begin by departing for Monreale, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Upon arrival, you will visit the breathtaking Monreale Cathedral, famous for its 6,000 square meters of stunning mosaics that depict biblical scenes and intricate details. Later in the morning, you will explore the most iconic landmarks of Palermo, including the majestic Cathedral, the Quattro Canti – the heart of the city's baroque quarter – and the elegant Pretoria Fountain, among others. Lunch will be at your leisure, allowing you the flexibility to choose a spot that suits your tastes. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. You may wish to visit the grand Teatro Massimo, Italy's largest opera house, admire the art collection at Palazzo Abatellis Gallery, delve into history at the Archaeological Museum, or discover the unique traditions at the Puppet Museum.

Overnight in Palermo.

Day 4: PALERMO – ERICE – AGRIGENTO AREA (300km – 4.5hrs)

After breakfast, we will depart for the charming town of Erice, for a guided sightseeing tour through its narrow, cobblestone streets. Perched high on a hilltop, Erice offers breathtaking panoramic views and a rich historical atmosphere. Following the tour, we will stop at a renowned local winery, where you will have the opportunity to visit the cellars and learn about the winemaking process. The visit will include a delightful tasting of local wines paired with traditional Sicilian street food, offering an authentic taste of the region. We will then continue our journey toward Agrigento, making a stop at the ancient archaeological site of Selinunte along the way. Here, you will have the chance to marvel at the magnificent Greek temples, majestically positioned overlooking the sea, a sight that captures both history and natural beauty.

Overnight in Agrigento.

Day 5: AGRIGENTO AREA – CALTAGIRONE (115km – 2hrs)

After enjoying breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Agrigento, a city known for its remarkable archaeological sites. The highlight of the visit will be the renowned Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the majestic ancient Greek temples and ruins set against a stunning landscape. You will have the opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts that shed light on the history of the region. After the tour, the journey will continue towards the heart of Sicily, offering breathtaking views of the island's scenic countryside. For lunch, you will stop at a local organic farm, where you will be treated to an authentic, traditional Sicilian feast. The meal will include a variety of local dishes, fresh ingredients, and a delicious regional dessert, all accompanied by beverages. In the afternoon, before reaching Caltagirone we will stop in Piazza Armerina. You’ll have the option to visit the famous Villa Romana del Casale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman mosaics. Please note that the entrance ticket for the villa is not included and should be purchased directly at the site.

Overnight in Caltagirone. 

Day 6: CALTAGIRONE – NOTO – SYRACUSE – ORTIGIA – TAORMINA AREA (250km – 4hrs)

After breakfast, depart for Noto, a town renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy a walk through the historic downtown area, admiring the town’s elegant buildings, ornate churches and charming streets that showcase Noto’s rich architectural heritage. In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Siracusa. Explore Ortigia Island, the historical heart of the city. The visit will include the Aretusa Fountain, a picturesque landmark known for its lush papyrus plants and historical significance. You will also have the chance to view the Dome of Syracuse, an impressive Baroque church with a fascinating history, though only an external visit is included. Additionally, you will visit the Temple of Apollo, one of the oldest Doric temples in Sicily, offering insight into the ancient Greek influences in the region. Then continue to Taormina.

Overnight in Taormina. 

Day 7: TAORMINA AREA

After breakfast, you will have an opportunity to explore Mount Etna, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the world (this excursion is not included and must be paid directly on-site). The journey will take you to the parking lot at an elevation of 1,900 meters, where you will join a tour to the summit. This excursion includes a cable car ride, followed by an off-road minivan adventure and a guided tour, providing an up-close experience of Etna's volcanic landscape. Following the Etna adventure, you will visit a renowned Sicilian wine producer for a delightful wine-tasting session. Here, you will also sample a variety of local food products, experiencing the rich flavours of Sicilian cuisine. In the afternoon, take a scenic walk through Taormina, a charming town often referred to as the "Pearl of the Ionian Coast." As you explore its elegant streets and historic sites, you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional local pastry shop, or “Pasticceria.” There, you will enjoy a demonstration of how Sicilian cannoli are made, followed by a tasting of this classic Sicilian dessert.

Overnight in Taormina.

Day 8: TAORMINA AREA – DEPARTURE CATANIA (70km – 1hr)

The trip concludes with a final breakfast at the hotel. After enjoying your meal, you will be transferred to Catania Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your Sicilian adventure, with memories of the island’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine.

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Italy. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.