Perfectly placed in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily’s succession of ancient civilisations and colonisers has left a rich array of historic sites including lavish Roman villas, crumbling Greek temples and medieval fortresses.
On this 11-day journey using private drivers and guides, visit Sicily’s main highlights including the architectural jewel of Palmero, the famous Valley of the Temples of Agrigento and coastal towns of Cefalù and Siracusa. You will also explore some of the island’s hidden gems and get to know Sicily’s culture in depth with a stay in a farmhouse run by a multigenerational family. Finish this memorable trip in the elegant hilltop town of Taormina with a trip to Mount Etna’s crater and wine tasting on the slopes.
Palermo – Cefalù – Polizzi Generosa – Agrigento – Siracusa – Taormina
Trip Highlights
- Visit Cefalù, one of Sicily's most beautiful coastal towns with a grand Norman cathedral
- Discover the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, founded by Greek settlers in 582 BC
- Take a cable car to Mount Etna’s crater, Europe’s largest active volcano, for fine views
- The Villa Romana del Casale has the world’s largest collection of Roman mosaics
- UNESCO-listed, explore the Renaissance and Baroque buildings of delightful Siracusa
Itinerary
Day 1
UK to Palermo
Begin your journey by boarding your international flight to Palermo, the capital of Italy’s most southern island, Sicily. On arrival you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel. Take a couple of hours to relax before embarking on a walking orientation tour of Palermo with a private guide. Granted a UNESCO World Heritage classification in 2015, Palermo is home to a blend of architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque and Norman, which highlights the region’s changing cultures. Discover the beautiful Cathedral and Piazza Pretoria featuring a Renaissance marble fountain before sampling one of Sicily’s delicacies, the cannolo siciliano.
Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa
Villa Igiea
Day 2
Palermo & Monreale
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before visiting Mercato del Capo, Palermo’s main market situated in the heart of the historical city centre. This multicultural and colourful market reflects the city’s diversity with stands from local Palermitans, regional Italians and foreign communities. For lunch, sample one of the many street foods that Sicily is famous for. In the afternoon, travel to Monreale famous for its beautiful cathedral that, one of the world’s greatest examples of Norman architecture. Wander through Moorish-style arcades and examine its exquisite gold mosaics illustrating biblical tales. In the evening enjoy dinner at leisure in Palermo.
- Breakfast
Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa
Villa Igiea
Day 3
Cefalù & Polizzi Generosa
This morning check out of your hotel and travel east to coastal Cefalù. Edged by turquoise waters and sandy beaches and framed by a soaring mountain, Cefalù is widely regarded as one of Sicily’s most beautiful towns. During your visit explore the 12th century Norman cathedral and maybe enjoy a traditional lunch at the historic Piazza del Duomo. Continue inland towards Polizzi Generosa where you will be staying at a 19th century farmhouse full of style and charm. Surrounded by rolling wheat fields and ancient Roman ruins, the farmhouse has been in the same family for five generations so enjoy sharing their culture and traditions during your stay.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Susafa
Day 4
Sutera & Agrigento
After a traditional breakfast at the farmhouse, travel to the picturesque village of Sutera which is nestled at the base of the great Mount San Paolino. Climb to the 14th century monastery that crowns the mountain and enjoy the spectacular views that overlook Sicily’s rolling countryside. After lunch at leisure, continue to Agrigento. A prominent city in Magna Graecia during the Roman Empire, Agrigento was subsequently fought over by the Carthaginians and Romans in the fourth and third centuries BC. Today it is known for its ancient ruins and stunning viewpoints which reach to the sandy beaches of southern Sicily. Enjoy an included 3-course dinner at the hotel’s restaurant this evening.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna
Hotel Villa Athena
Day 5
Agrigento
After breakfast set out on a private guided tour of Agrigento’s most famous landmark, the Valley of the Temples, in the company of an expert archaeologist. Founded in 582 BC by Greek settlers, the temple is one of the most outstanding pieces of Greater Greece art and architecture and today is one of Sicily’s best-known attractions. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Agrigento which was described by the Greek poet Pindar as the ‘most beautiful of those inhabited by mortals’.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna
Hotel Villa Athena
Day 6
Piazza Armerina & Siracusa
This morning continue your Sicilian journey to Piazza Armerina which is home to another of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Villa Romana del Casale. Unearthed in the late 1800s after being buried by a landslide in the 12th century, the museum houses the largest collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Spend a couple of hours exploring this exquisite collection with a private guide before visiting a local sheep milk producer on the way to Siracusa. Take a tour of the farm and enjoy an included tasting of one of the region’s most traditional cheeses. Continue to Siracusa, a historic city that encapsulates Sicily's timeless beauty. Spend the evening at leisure wandering the cobbled streets and enjoying a glass of wine.
- Breakfast
Grande Albergo Alfeo
Ortea Palace
Day 7
Siracusa
Make an early start to visit the stunning island of Ortigia located in Siracusa’s historic city centre. Another of Sicily’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, spend the morning meandering down the winding streets where grandiose Renaissance and Baroque buildings enrich the archaeological wealth of this town. Continue to the impressive cathedral and visit the Temple of Apollo built in 6 BC. During the tour meet a local artisan who makes pupi - the puppets that feature in a Sicilian tradition opera dei pupi. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in Siracusa.
- Breakfast
Grande Albergo Alfeo
Ortea Palace
Day 8
Ragusa & Modica
Today travel to Ragusa, a pretty hilltop city in southeast Sicily. Take a stroll through Ragusa Ilba, the old town, which is home to some beautiful baroque buildings including the Duomo di San Giorgio which features stained-glass windows and grand paintings. After some exploring, take part in a private cookery class learning how to make typical Sicilian dishes that you will later enjoy for lunch. In the afternoon travel to Modica, known as Italy’s chocolate capital, and visit a local chocolate laboratory with a tasting of artisanal chocolates. Travel back for your last evening in Siracusa where you will be free to explore the city’s multitude of al-fresco restaurants.
- Lunch
Grande Albergo Alfeo
Ortea Palace
Day 9
Taormina
Enjoy the morning at leisure before travelling to Taormina, another of Sicily's beautiful hilltop towns that was described by write Goethe as ‘a corner of paradise’. On arrival meet your private guide for a walking tour through upper town which is perched on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea. During the tour visit the ancient Greco-Roman theatre, Teatro Antico di Taormina, that is still used today and soak up the breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the turquoise seas below. Spend the evening at leisure in picturesque Taormina.
- Breakfast
Villa Belvedere
Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo
Day 10
Mount Etna
After breakfast travel to Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna, which dominates eastern Sicily. Take a cable car and enjoy a walk around the crater escorted by an alpine guide and be inspired by the panoramic views. The walking itinerary will be dependent on the volcano’s activity and also the guests’ physical conditions and interests. After working up a thirst on the walk, stop at a spectacular winery on the slopes of this legendary volcano. Taste fabulous local wines and enjoy a three-course lunch before driving back to Taormina. Spend your last evening at leisure sampling all those Sicilian delights you have yet to try.
- Breakfast
Villa Belvedere
Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo
Day 11
Catania to the UK
After a leisurely morning your private driver will pick up and transfer you to the airport for your international flight home.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Rome, capital of the Italian Republic, is rightly considered one of the world’s greatest cities and brimming with a collection of exceptional historic sites including the Roman Colosseum and Forum, spectacular Pantheon, elegant Trevi Fountain and the Vatican. Direct flights link Sicily with Rome.
Visit beautiful Sorrento, a morning’s drive south of Naples, itself a short flight from Sicily. This beautiful pastel-coloured coastal town, precipitously tumbling down a steep cliffside with far-reaching views over the Sorrentine Peninsula, has provided inspiration to writers, poets and artists.
Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famously buried following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD ancient Pompeii was perfectly preserved in volcanic ash and stone. Access Pompeii from either Naples or Sorrento.
Explore sophisticated Milan, which can be reached by air from Sicily. With a distinct Milanese style, this chic, professional and cultured city feels very different to those of the south. Visit the impressive Duomo, view da Vinci’s great masterpiece ‘The Last Supper’ or enjoy an opera at La Scala.
Guide to Price
11 days from £4500 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
- Private car and driver
- Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £4500
Travel Information
Getting There
British Airways fly direct from London to many Italian cities including Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, Pisa and Verona. They also offer flights to the Italian islands Sardinia and Sicily. Regional flights with British Airways are available with a connection at Heathrow. Budget airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet also have a wide range of flights available between the UK and Italy. Alternatively take the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient Express between London and Venice, or self-drive is also an option.
Flying Times From UK
Flight times take between 2-4 hours depending on where you are flying into in Italy. It takes two and a half hours to fly between the UK and Rome.
Time Zone
Italy is +1 hour ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
British Citizens do not require a visa for travel to Italy. You should ensure that your passport has at least 6 months validity, that you have appropriate travel insurance and correct documentation if planning to drive. Travellers will not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. For more information please visit the UK Government website.
Do’s & Don’ts
When taking photographs, permission should always be asked before taking someone’s picture.
Make sure you pack suitable clothing so that you can dress respectfully for visits to religious venues.
Knees and shoulders should be covered when entering Catholic Churches such as St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City or St Mark’s Basilica in Venice.
If you manage to learn a few words in Italian it will be greatly appreciated.
Money
The local currency is the Euro which is easily exchanged before you leave the UK or once in Italy. ATMs are reliable and commonplace throughout the country and nearly all major credit cards are accepted. Some restaurants may include an extra service fee for payments made with a credit or debit card so this is always worth checking first. Changing foreign currency is an easy process in Italy which is possible at banks, hotels and post offices.
Tipping
There is no set rule for tipping in Italy, but 10% for good service is appreciated. In some restaurants service charge is added to your bill automatically so ensure you check this. Tips in cash are preferred.
Food & Drink
Italian food is one of the world’s most loved and accessible cuisines and is very much focused on simplicity, flavours and local produce. Like many destinations, food is very regional in Italy, and each area has its own speciality, many boasting recipes that have been passed from generation to generation. Renowned for its incredible pizza and pasta, Italy also offers dishes which use some of the continent’s best ingredients including Tuscan truffles, fresh seafood from Liguria, cured meat from Parma, Sicilian lemons, buffalo mozzarella from Campania and Modena’s famous balsamic vinegar. Italy is also known for its excellent coffee, and the culture surrounding this, which is ingrained into daily life. Other popular drinks include limoncello, a lemon-based liqueur, the strong spirit of grappa and, of course, wine.
Accommodation
There is an excellent variety of accommodation in Italy ranging from luxurious heritage properties and modern international resorts to boutique city hotels and secluded villas. Throughout all Italian cities there is a huge range of international chain or boutique hotels as well as apartments available, all of which follow European standards. Tuscany and Umbria offer villas with pools in the stunning countryside perfect for family or group holidays. There an abundance of lakeside hotels and apartments in the Italian Lakes whereas Sardinia and Sicily have a wonderful range of beach resorts. There is also specialist accommodation available throughout the country including mountain monasteries, rural farmhouses, ski lodges and local campsites.
Shopping
The Italians are renowned for their fashion and high-end clothes, shoes and bags. Florence, Milan and Rome are excellent places to shop for both Italian and international designers. Traditional craft items such as pottery, jewellery, ornaments and leatherwork can be found at local markets and craft shops throughout the country in both the big cities and more rural villages.Food markets are an excellent way to sample Italian street food and also buy produce including olive oil, truffles, fresh seafood and meat, cheese and vegetables, whereas local wine or spirts can be shipped back to the UK.
Suggested Reading
Rough Guides, Lonely Planet and DK Eyewitness have excellent guide books on Italy and also offer regional or city variations. For books on the history of Italy try ‘The Pursuit of Italy: A History of a Land, Its Regions, and Their Peoples’ by Sir David Gilmore, ‘House of Medici’ by Christopher Hibbert and ‘Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire’ by Edward Gibbon. ‘The Italians’ by Luigi Barzini deeply explores the Italian character and psyche and for a brilliantly comprehensive A-Z guide on Italian food, try ‘The Oxford Companion to Italian Food’ by Gillian Riley. There are also a number of excellent biographies and fictional reads set in Italy that include:
‘The Merchant of Prato’ by Iris Origo
'Christ Stopped At Eboli' by Carlo Levi
‘The Borgias: Power and Fortune’ by Paul Strathern
‘The Leopard’ by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
‘Death in Venice’ by Thomas Mann
‘A Farewell to Arms’ by Ernest Hemmingway
‘The Land Where Lemons Grow’ by Helena Atlee
‘A Room With a View’ by E. M. Forster
‘Pompei’ by Rober Lustrum
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current recommended vaccinations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on Italy the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice)which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly.We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (https://safertourism.org.uk/) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
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JT - Italy - June 2024
We are back from our lovely holiday in Lake Garda, we had a fantastic time and all the bookings ran perfectly. Thank you for your help in arranging everything and I look forward to planning my next trip with you!
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