Discover Sicily’s Highlights | 8-Day Small Group Journey

Arrival Airport: Catania (CTA)
Overnight: Taormina | Hotel Ariston 4★ (Sea View)

Arrive at Catania Fontanarossa Airport, where you’ll meet your private driver in the arrivals terminal after baggage claim. Look for a personalized sign with your name for a smooth private transfer to Taormina (approx. 1 hour).

After check-in at your centrally located 4-star hotel in Taormina, enjoy time to relax before meeting your fellow travelers.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Sicily’s culinary heritage on a Taormina Food & Wine Walking Tour (2–3 hours). Meet your local gastronomic guide at Porta Messina and stroll along Corso Umberto, tasting authentic Sicilian dishes in traditional trattorias and wine bars. Sample fresh seafood paired with regional white wines, savor local specialties with bold Sicilian reds, and finish with classic pastries made with almonds, honey, and seasonal fruit.

Overnight: Taormina | Hotel Ariston 4★

Meet your guide at the hotel for a Taormina Walking Tour (2 hours), exploring one of Sicily’s most iconic hilltop towns. Visit the legendary Greek Theatre, dramatically set above the Ionian Sea with views of Mount Etna. Continue through medieval landmarks such as Palazzo Corvaja, remnants of Roman history, and the charming Old Town. Take in panoramic coastal views from Belvedere Square, then walk to Piazza Duomo via the historic Catania Gate.

Later, depart for a Godfather & Sicilian Mafia Tour (5–6 hours). Travel through breathtaking countryside to Forza d’Agrò and Savoca, two picturesque villages featured in The Godfather films. Visit iconic filming locations such as Bar Vitelli (optional) and Santa Lucia Church, while learning about the true history of the Sicilian Mafia. Conclude the experience with a traditional pasta lunch and local wine at a family-run restaurant.

Overnight: Taormina | Hotel Ariston 4★

Embark on a memorable Mount Etna day trip, exploring Europe’s tallest active volcano. Drive through scenic vineyards and olive groves before reaching Rifugio Sapienza at 1,900 meters. Walk around the Silvestri Craters, surrounded by dramatic lava landscapes.

Optional cable car and 4x4 excursions can take you higher toward the summit for an even more immersive volcanic experience. After descending, visit a local Etna winery for a guided wine tasting followed by an organic Sicilian lunch, showcasing wines shaped by volcanic soil.

Overnight: Syracuse (Ortigia) | Hotel Livingston 4★

Discover southeastern Sicily on a guided tour to Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and jewel of Sicilian Baroque architecture. Walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, admire the Noto Cathedral, and marvel at the ornate balconies of Palazzo Nicolaci.

Continue to the charming seaside village of Marzamemi, known for its colorful houses and historic tuna fishery. Enjoy a seafood lunch by the water, followed by free time to explore Piazza Regina Margherita. After the tour, transfer to your hotel in Syracuse.

Overnight: Syracuse | Hotel Livingston 4★

Explore the ancient city of Syracuse, one of the most important Greek settlements in the Mediterranean. Begin in Ortigia Island, visiting the Temple of Apollo, strolling along Via Cavour, and stopping at the Fountain of Archimedes.

Discover the atmospheric Jewish Quarter, then reach Piazza Duomo, where a Baroque cathedral rises over ancient Greek columns. End your tour at the legendary Arethusa Fountain, a freshwater spring overlooking the sea.

Overnight: Palermo | Hotel Politeama 4★

Journey west to Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. Walk among ancient Greek ruins including the Temple of Concordia, Temple of Juno, and Temple of Heracles, set amid olive groves and almond trees.

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Sicilian trattoria before continuing to Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital.

Overnight: Palermo | Hotel Politeama 4★

Uncover the history and energy of Palermo on a guided city walking tour. Visit the impressive Palermo Cathedral, stroll through the Baroque crossroads of Quattro Canti, and admire the ornate Pretoria Fountain.

Continue through Palermo’s lively historic streets and local food markets, sampling iconic Sicilian street food such as sfincione pizza and cannoli, while soaking up the city’s unique blend of cultures.