Sicily: The Island of Treasures
8 day tour

Day 1

• Mount Etna – explore, hike and adventure around Europe’s largest active volcano
• Taormina – Known as the ‘pearl of the Mediterranean’, this idyllic hilltop town is blessed with history and beauty
• Naxos – Nothing like a quaint Greek seaside settlement to really drive home that you’re on an adventure

We hope you’ve been having fun so far in Catania, even if just for the night – but today we’re off on our adventure around Sicily. Our first stop is nearby Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. She’s a sour one, no mistake, but she’s a pretty, snow-topped beauty so we forgive her for being a bit grumbly sometimes.  

And we’re not just here to look, folks. We’re here to get to know Etna personally. The choice of how well you’d like to get to know her is up to you. Perhaps you’ll jump on the cable car, followed by a 4x4 tour all the way to the crater. If you’re looking for something a little more active, after the cable car up the side of the mountain, you can hike yourself over to the crater rim. Note: this isn’t for the faint of heart and will require sturdy walking shoes and a good level of fitness. But for those who are happy for something a little more low-key, there are plenty of lower-crater trails for easier walks with stunning views in Etna’s shadow.   

Make sure to save some stamina for the afternoon because we’ve got a lot more to see and do. 

We say goodbye to Etna and head into greater Sicily. After stopping in somewhere along the route for a bite to eat, you head towards Taormina. But before we arrive, we’ll stop in (time permitting) at the lovely beachside town of Naxos. Here, in this quaint Greek settlement, you might pop into the Museum and Archaeological Area of Naxos to see the ruins of the first Greek settlement established in Sicily. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a little boat ride. It’s up to you depending on time and weather. 

And then we’ll head just to the other side of the bay to the lovely town of Taormina. Quite quickly, you’ll come to understand why it’s known as the ‘pearl of the Mediterranean’, and why endless famous people – such as Elizabeth Taylor – have vacationed here. This idyllic hilltop town sits on the east coast of Sicily, with a stunning view over the Ionian Sea. The medieval buildings have long since been restored, the winding streets are brimming with shops, bars, and restaurants, and the breathtaking views at every turn will keep you entertained and feeling blessed. 

Perhaps you’ll grab yourself a small treat and wander the Palazzo Corvaja, marvelling at the mix of Arab, Gothic, and Norman architecture. Or maybe you’ve been dying to take in the grandeur of the Greek-Roman amphitheater.  

Best part about Taormina? It’s our overnight stop for tonight, so you don’t have to rush off or rush around. Instead, find yourself a restaurant and/or bar... and simply take it all in. 

Included Activities

• Mount Etna - entrance, cable car and 4x4 jeep tour (if chosen)

Accommodation 

Hotel Panoramic, Taormina, 4* (or equivalent)

Day 2

• Novara di Sicilia – gaze up at the ‘Matterhorn of Italy’ as you wander this historic town
• Tindari – this seaside beauty is waiting to be admired
• Palermo – lose yourself in the capital of Sicily  

Get ready for a big day. After enjoying your hotel breakfast, we head inland to our first stop: the historical and picturesque village of Novara di Sicilia. Is she one of Italy’s most beautiful villages? That’s for you to decide as you wander its winding streets. 

For a small place, there’s plenty of history here. From Byzantine to Arab to Normans, it’s seen its fair share. But now it’s for you to enjoy. Enjoy what, exactly? Well, that’s up to you. Wander the ruins of the Saracen castle, visit the Chiesa di San Giorgio and its twelve monolithic Corinthian columns, marvel at the 16th-century Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta, or you could simply wander and stare at the amazing architecture, all with a backdrop of the Rocca Salvatesta, the ‘Matterhorn of Italy’. 

Onwards to our next stop, a place that will truly make you stop and say ‘wow’. Owing its name to Tindarus, king of Sparta, the small town of Tindari is worth a million pictures and a million daydreams. There’s so much to learn about Tindari, but much will make you wonder: is it history or myth?  

Don’t miss the ruins of the ancient city and the impressive 4th-century Greek Theatre, which overlooks the sea. And then there’s the rare Black Madonna. This 12th-century statue is said to have miraculous powers, with many pilgrims visiting the sanctuary every year. And next to the statue, an inscription declares “black am I but beautiful”... that alone is worth seeing for yourself. 

We then head to the historic town of Cefalu. You’ll be torn between the stunning blue water and inviting beach, and everything else... because there really is so much to see. From its historic palazzos to medieval washhouse, you won’t know where to start. How about the 12th-century Norman cathedral? Soaring twin towers invite you inside, where an ornate and unfathomable Byzantine mosaic-studded interior waits to be admired.  

Or take a short hike up to see the haunting ruins of the Temple of Diana and Church of Saint Anne. According to legend, the location of the Temple of Diana was chosen by the goddess herself. But while you’re hunting for the hidden treasure that ‘supposedly’ lies somewhere within the ancient ruins, be aware that some believe the ruins are cursed and those who trespass or desecrate the sacred site will incur her wrath. 

Our final stop of the day is also our overnight stay for the next two nights. You’ll need a bit of extra time in the capital city of Palermo, you see. A wild mix of architecture is around every corner – Arab, Roman, Norman, Byzantine. And the buildings! Cathedrals, churches, even a palace. So, take your time, enjoy your night and tell us all about it in the morning. 

Accommodation

B&B Hotel Quattro Canti, Palermo 3* (or equivalent)

Day 3

• Monreale – Sample the quiet life in this quaint hilltop town
• Palermo – Dig a little deeper today with free time in Sicily’s capital, there are sure to be secrets to uncover

Gaze through the frames of ornate archways at a view so stunning it can’t be real. Strain your neck as you attempt to take in every inch of a mosaiced cathedral. Enjoy the views of orchards as they stretch out around the hilltop town of Monreale. Our first stop of the day won’t disappoint, we assure you. 

After a lovely morning exploring Monreale and treating yourself to a lovely Sicilian lunch, we head back to Palermo in the afternoon, where you are given the rest of the day and evening to explore at your own pace.  

Accommodation

B&B Hotel Quattro Canti, Palermo 3* (or equivalent)

Day 4

• Castellammare del Golfo – Beaches, churches carved into stone, more-ish cheese... is there a better sounding place?
• Segesta – Incomplete but impactful, explore the 5th-century ruins and wonder at their history
• Agrigento - This vibrant city’s mix of ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and modern amenities offers a glimpse into Sicily's fascinating past

We have to hand it to Sicily: it knows how to impress. This morning we journey to the western tip of the island to the town of Castellammare del Golfo. They say the town’s beauty cannot be fully appreciated without experiencing one of its many beaches... and we’d have to agree. So, perhaps that’s the place to start? Dip your toes in, maybe even take a swim, or simply enjoy the salty breeze on your face.  

As for the rest of the town, Castellammare del Golfo is filled with sacred churches and buildings from a variety of eras. For our photographers, make sure to snap a picture of the Chiesa della Madonna della scala, carved right into the face of a rock.  

Quick note since you’re likely be snacky by this point in the morning: see if you can find yourself some Cofanetto, some of Sicily’s finest cheese. Need we say more?  

We carry on now to a place known as Segesta. This is a ‘wow’ kind of place. Extraordinary is another word that comes to mind. This incredible Doric temple dates back to the 5th century... but it was never finished. And there’s something about her standing there alone, quiet in a field surrounded by a luscious Italian landscape, that makes you appreciate her incomplete beauty. And then there are the questions that has puzzled archaeologists for centuries: why was the temple built here, what was its intended purpose, and why was it never completed?  

Speaking of ruins, we hop back on the bus and head to the hilltop city of Agrigento. The city was founded back in 581 BC by Greek colonists that hailed from Rhodes and Crete. Today, many visit for the Valley of the Temples alone, but we'll tell you more about that tomorrow. 

For now, it’s time to explore the rest of Agrigento, which you’ll have plenty of time for since this is our overnight stop for the next two nights. Steeped in history, Agrigento is famous for its archaeological treasures. So tonight, while you’re meandering through the Old Town with its narrow streets and picturesque squares, deciding where you should dine tonight for some fine Sicilian cuisine, make sure you bring your camera.

Accommodation

Hotel Colleverde, Agrigento 4* (or equivalent)

Day 5

• Valley of the Temples – Be humbled by the ruins of this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Scala dei Turchi – Ponder what real beauty is as you explore these incredible white cliffs

To be honest... we’re still not sure if our first stop of the day is a real place or if it's a fever dream, because – let's face it – the Scala dei Turchi are almost too good to be true. The ‘Stair of the Turks’ aren’t an actual staircase, but this stretch of coastline will have you second-guessing what you see and understand about nature.  

The cliff before you has a dazzling, white complexion. Smooth at every angle. Almost at one with the undulation of the sea below. But this cliff is simply that: a cliff. Though there is nothing simple about it.  

As we start making our way back to Agrigento for the evening, it’s time to finally welcome you to the incomparable Valley of the Temples, a magnificent ruinous masterpiece that sits in a valley of flowering almond trees. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will humble you, not just with its grandeur, but under the gaze of the ruined and fallen statues around you. 

Curious, fascinated, and in awe, we head back to Agrigento for the evening.

Optional Activities

• Entrace to the Valley of the Temples

Accommodation

Hotel Colleverde, Agrigento 4* (or equivalent)

Day 6

• Piazza Armerina – This medieval labyrinth is the perfect place to lose yourself to exploration and history
• Siracusa – From catacombs to cuisine, history to historic names, this 8th-century city is a marvel

Good morning Sicily! After breakfast at your hotels, we say goodbye to Agrigento and head to the town of Piazza Armerina. The first thing you’ll notice is the Cathedral of Piazza Armerina which dominates the skyline above, like the palace in a fictional land overlooking its subjects below. It’s a striking view, and today you have the chance to explore this town and the cathedral at your own pace. Take note today, of the Renaissance and Baroque architecture, of the medieval layout, something interesting around every corner. 

Art lovers, make sure you call in at the Chiesa di San Giovanni, where stunning paintings and frescoes by Borremans are on display.  

And if you’ve ever wanted to be hurtled back in time, make sure you stop in at the Villa Romana del Casale. Ancient Rome, here we come. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a work of art, from paintings to mosaics, take a glimpse into what life might have been like. 

After time to explore and a bite to eat, it’s back on the bus and heading for the town of Siracusa, our home for the next two (and final) nights of the tour. We’ve now made our way fully around the island, now just an hour south of where we started in Catania. But worry not – there's still plenty to do and see on this adventure. We’re not done yet. 

Founded by Ancient Greek Corinthians and Teneans in 8th century BC, Siracusa was a powerful city back in its day. Today, people come to marvel at the Greek and Roman history, the culture and architecture and amphitheaters, and – of course – that striking sea view.  

We’ll start you off with an included guided tour of Siracusa, to help you get your bearings for later when you’re given free time to explore at your own pace. So, whether you explore the Archaeological Park of Neapolis or delve into the Catacombs of San Giovanni, relax at the Piazza del Duomo with a small beverage or indulge in as much Sicilian cuisine as you can get your hands on, your day is likely to be a memorable one.  

And as you wander, keep in mind that this is a home of legends. Mathematician and engineer, Archimedes, was born here in the 3rd century. And ancient Greek playwrights Aeschylus and Euripides also hailed from here, before they shared their incredible (and tragic) stories with the world.  

Included Activities

• Guided tour of Siracusa with English-speaking guide

Optional Activities

• Entrance to Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina

Accommodation

Hotel Gargallo, Siracusa 3* (or equivalent)

Day 7

• Modica – Get ready for flavours you won’t forget and fascinations you will marvel at 
• Scicli – Do you agree that this is one of the most beautiful cities in the world?
• Noto – From Baroque to beautiful, you’ll easily fall for this city

Today we start with the two Cs: caves and chocolate. And that’s only part of what makes Modica interesting. First up, we have to talk about the chocolate. Priorities. The working lab at the Chocolate Museum might be all you’re looking for from this trip and we’d completely understand. It’s a great place to explore Modica’s chocolate-making history, as well as grabbing yourself several dozen souvenirs. 

Beyond the chocolate, Modica is a surprising and mysterious little town. You’ll lose yourself in the maze of alleyways and stairways as you discover more and more viewpoints. Wander enough and you may discover the cave tombs, the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of San Giorgio, the elegant Portale De Leva archway... among so many other things to stumble upon. 

You’ll likely exhaust your camera today because our next stop was described as “perhaps the most beautiful city in the world” by famous Italian writer Elio Vittorini. Now is your time to explore Scicli and see if you agree with Elio. Perhaps start on the Via Francesco Mormino Penna, considered one of the most beautiful streets in Sicily. The city is filled with stunning Baroque architecture. Take the UNESCO-listed, 18th-century Palazzo Beneventano, for example. Stone creatures stare down at you from high as you admire this stunning palace. 

After having your fill of beauty, we head to our final stop of the day: Noto.  

When the sun shines down on Noto, this city glows. All around you is glistening Baroque architecture, richly decorated buildings, a grand archway greeting you to the city. Stroll down the elegant Corso Vittorio Emanuele walkway, and take your pick of historical buildings, UNESCO-listed sites, and shops.  

We head back to Siracusa for another night of delicious food and drink. 

Optional Activities

• Entrance to the Chocolate Museum of Modica

Accommodation

Hotel Gargallo, Siracusa 3* (or equivalent)

Day 8

• Neapolis Archaeological Parc – Imagine what it was like sitting among 16,000 spectators in this 5th-century amphitheater
• Necropolis of Pantalica – Lose yourself (figuratively) in the 5,000 cave tombs of this incredible site

No need to get the last-day blues, because today is still going to knock your historical socks off. Our first stop is the Neapolis Archaeological Parc, where the eye is immediately drawn to the Teatro Greco, a 5th-century amphitheater that used to hold 16,000 spectators for... well, that’s what your imagination is for.  

But wander on and see what else this stunning site has tucked away. Perhaps you’ll be drawn to the Latomia del Paradiso, a deep limestone quarry just beside the theatre. Riddled with catacombs, bursting with trees, and smuggling away its secrets, some 7000 prisoners were once held here.  

Our final stop of the day is the cave Necropolis of Pantalica. When one says the word ‘cave’, some are thrilled, others are nervous... yet all are intrigued. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perched on a cliff with an enviable view of the gorges of River Anapo. Humans are suspected to have inhabited this area as far back as 70,000 years. Today, people (like you) are still drawn to this area, and to the necropolis of some 5,000 cave tombs that have been carved into the natural rock. Explore, imagine, marvel... but don’t get lost.  

Assuming you find your way back to the bus (only kidding), we head back to Catania where our tour ends. But worry not, Sicily isn’t going anywhere, and you’ve only just scratched the surface. 

Optional Activities

• Entrance to Neapolis Archaeological Parc