8-Day Small Group Highlights of Sicily

Day 1: 🌟 Arrival in Catania 🌟

🌟 Welcome to Sicily: The Island Welcomes You 🌟

🛬 Arrival at Catania – Your Gateway to Sicily 🛬

Note: You fly info Catania and home from Palermo. We have a research and airfare booking specialist just for our clients who will help find the best price and route for your airfare.

Private airport transfer included! 

🏨 Get Settled 🏨 
Check into your cozy 4-star hotel and relax in your Sea View Room. The breathtaking coastal views are just the start of your Sicilian adventure.

🌞 Evening Walk 🌞
As the evening cools off, meet your local guide in Taormina’s vibrant city center. They’ll lead you through the historic streets, showing you the best spots to taste authentic Sicilian food on a two hour private walking tour through the city.

🍷 Taste of Taormina 🍷
Dive into Taormina’s delicious food scene. From mouthwatering street snacks to fantastic local wines, you’ll eat and drink like a local. Your guide will introduce you to the passionate folks who keep these culinary traditions alive.

🌙 Night Out in Taormina 🌙
The tour wraps up around 9 PM, leaving you in the heart of Taormina with plenty of time to explore. Check out the nightlife, take a leisurely stroll, or grab a drink at a cozy bar.

🏡 Rest Up 🏡 
Head back to your comfy Sea View Room to rest and recharge. There’s so much more to see and do in Taormina, so you’ll want to be ready for another exciting day.

A Bit of History:
Taormina is a real gem with a history that stretches back to ancient Greek and Roman times. Don’t miss the Teatro Antico, an ancient Greek theatre with stunning views. The town’s unique blend of cultures is reflected in its architecture, food, and traditions.

Enjoy the magic of Taormina, where history, culture, and beautiful scenery come together for an unforgettable experience.

For further assistance or to answer your questions, please reach out to Italy4Real, at info@italy4real.com Let’s make your Sicilian holiday an amazing king experience!🌊

Day 2: ✨ Godfather vs Mafia Tour with Light Lunch ✨

🌅 Morning Start 🌅

After you slowly wake up and enjoy your breakfast of wonderful Italian expresso, juices, pastries, sweets and more at the hotel; you will then meet your local guide who is a historian in the Mafia culture of Sicily.

🎬 Godfather Tour 🎬

You will depart for the towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agro, nestled in the mountains. These two towns are part of the most famous scenes from the famous Godfather movies. If you know the movie series, then you will be in cinema heaven going to the place where Michael and Apollonia’s love story began, and your expert guide will show you the behind the scenes secrets of the making of one of the most famous mafia movies of all times.

One of the highlights of the mafia tour is enjoying a aperitif at the famous bar “Vitelli” made famous in the movie.

🍽️ Light Lunch 🍽️

After an adventurous morning; it’s time for lunch. Your local lunch will feature the local and seasonal foods known in this area. You will dine on an amazing terrace with extraordinary views. It’s the perfect way to experience this wonderful island.  Afterward you will be taken back to your accommodations for a relaxing free afternoon and evening.

🏛️ Rich Historical Tapestry 🏛️

After some relaxing time back at the hotel, you will meet your guide in the afternoon for a lovely historical walk through Taormina on your Taormina Walking Tour & Greek Theatre Visit. Your historian guide is a local who is an expert on explaining the culture, architecture, political history and natural beauty that the city is known for. You will also learn about life in the city and about the Sicilian peoples and their traditions. Taormina’s history is a rich tapestry, shaped by the Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Byzantines, and Normans.

🎭 Greek Theatre Visit 🎭

A highlight of the walk is a visit to the famous Greet Theatre. An ancient place that was the heart of culture and entertainment in ancient Taormina. After the tour you are free to enjoy the city and its nightlife.

🌙 Overnight in Taormina 🌙

Tonight, you are free in Taormina to discover your own special places to create the memories of a lifetime. The small historical center is bustling with cafes, restaurants perfect for finding you perfect spot for people watching and a lovely meal before turning in for a great night’s sleep.

Day 3: ✨ Day 3: Mt. Etna Trip up to 6,200 & 9,800 feet with Lunch at an Etna Winery ✨

🌄 Morning Adventure 🌄

After you awake to the Sicilian sunshine peaking through into your room, reminding you of a great day ahead. Enjoy your included breakfast and that second cappuccino before you start your adventure for the day. You will journey from Taormina to Mt. Etna, Europe’s most active volcano and you will get off the highway and begin to climb and go past the treeline into the lava zone, and your first you will stop at Refuge Sapienza at a height of 6,200 feet (1900 meters) where you will have some free time to hike the easy trail to the top of Silvestri Crater to take some amazing photos of the lava fields that cover the top of the mountain.

Note: Your safety is our utmost priority as Mt. Etna is an active volcano. If the activity of the volcano is too high for a visit, a substitute experience will be offered.

🚡 Ascent to 9,800 Feet 🚡

An optional excursion awaits. For those of you who want a bit more adventure, you an take the optional cable car up to a height of 9,800 feet (3000 meters) by cable car and Jeep to the main crater area. Your own alpine guide will educate you to what you are experiencing and explain how this mountain turned into lava so long ago. The optional tour is 45 min long and will give you years of amazing photos and memories to enjoy.

🍷 Winery Visit and Lunch 🍷

After your visit to the top of the mountain, we are sure you will have an appetite, and ready for some lunch. Your next stop is a lovely family run winery located on the slopes of Etna where their wines and organic foods take full advantage of the volcanic soil to create rich and vibrant wines and the best vegetables. You will enjoy a tour of the estate and cellars followed by a wine tasting featuring 5 different vintages of the local wines paired with appetizers and an light lunch. We cannot think of a better way to spend the day.

🚍 Return to Taormina 🚍

You will be taken back with a full belly and full mind from the amazing day. Dropped off back at your hotel so you can relax and enjoy the late afternoon and evening on your own.

Day 4: ✨ Noto Walking Tour with Seafood Lunch in Marzamemi ✨

🌅 Check out and Morning in Noto 🌅

After breakfast, check out of your Taormina oasis and meet your driver who will carefully load your luggage as you depart for the historic town of Noto on your way to your next overnight destination, Syracuse.

🏛️ Explore Noto 🏛️

Your first stop will be the UNESCO World Heritage site of Noto. This is an amazing town full of baroque architecture. You will enjoy an easy walk through the charming streets and taste some of the famous Sicilian chocolate made in Modica.

🎣 Marzamemi Seafood Lunch 🎣

After your lovely visit to Noto, you will travel to the seaside fisherman’s village of Marzamemi where you will enjoy a lovely lunch of fresh seafood featuring the local fish in a family run tavern.

Note: When booking please inform us if you do not like seafood or you have any food allergies

🌙 Evening in Syracuse 🌙

After lunch you will continue to your next overnight spot; the amazing coastal town of Syracuse. You will check into your comfortable hotel. The town is a favorite of ours and is very walkable with so much to see and do; full of cafes, waterfront strolls, restaurants and wonderful shops. You will be free this evening to find the perfect place for a meal before turning in for a restful nights sleep.

Day 5: ✨ Day 5: Ortigia Walking Tour ✨

🌅 Morning in Ortigia 🌅

Meet your local guide in the city center and embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Ortigia, the historic old town of Syracuse.

🏛️ Explore Historic Sights 🏛️

Start your tour by admiring the grandeur of the Apollo Temple. Then, stroll down Via Cavour, one of Ortigia’s most vibrant streets, where local artists and aristocrats like to spend their evenings.

🌟 Discover Hidden Gems 🌟

Your expert guide will introduce you to some of the local artists and colorful streets of the historic district. You will be amazed by the Archimedean Fountain and the Jewish district founded in the 3rd century B.C.

🏰 Duomo Square 🏰

Arrive at the heart of Ortigia: Duomo Square. This is one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, home to the stunning Duomo and the Church of St. Lucy. Your guide will fill you in on the lifestyle, traditions, and habits of the locals, enhancing your appreciation of this charming town.

🌙 Free Time in Syracuse 🌙

After the tour, enjoy a free afternoon and evening to explore Syracuse at your own pace. Discover more of the town’s hidden treasures, enjoy a leisurely meal, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere.

🏡 Overnight in Syracuse 🏡

Return to your cozy room for a restful night, ready for the next day’s adventures.

Enjoy the captivating blend of history, culture, and local life in Ortigia, making this day a memorable part of your Sicilian journey!

Day 6: ✨ Exploring Temple Valley and Heading to Palermo ✨

🌞 Morning: Leaving Syracuse 🌞

Say goodbye to the beautiful city of Syracuse. Your private driver will pick you up at your hotel, and you’ll start your journey towards Palermo. It’s about a two-hour drive, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

🏛️ Mid-Morning: Temple Valley, Agrigento 🏛️

After the drive, you’ll arrive at the stunning Temple Valley. A local guide will be waiting to take you on a two-hour tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll see amazing ancient Greek temples like:

– Temple of Concordia: Incredibly well-preserved and simply awe-inspiring.

– Temple of Juno: Great views and loads of history.

– Temple of Heracles: Famous for its impressive columns.

🍷 Lunch in Agrigento 🍷

Once you’ve soaked up all that history, it’s time for a delicious lunch at a local taverna. Enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes that give you a true taste of Sicily.

🏰 Afternoon: Onward to Palermo 🏰

After lunch, you’ll hit the road again for the final stretch to Palermo. It’s another two-hour drive, so maybe catch a nap or just enjoy the ride.

🌙 Evening: Arriving in Palermo 🌙

You’ll check in at your 4-star hotel, unpack, freshen up, and take it easy. The evening is all yours to explore Palermo. Wander around, try some street food, or just take in the local vibe.

What to Look Forward To:

– A fascinating guided tour of the ancient temples in Agrigento.

– Tasting delicious Sicilian food at a local taverna.

– A scenic drive through beautiful Sicilian landscapes.

– Free time to discover Palermo at your own pace.

Day 7: ✨ Palermo Walking Tour ✨

🌅 Morning: Start Your Day in Palermo 🌅

Get ready to dive into the heart of Palermo! Your day starts at 10:00 AM when you’ll meet your local guide right at your hotel.

Late Morning: Exploring Palermo

Your guide, a local expert, will lead you on a two-hour walking tour through the vibrant streets of Sicily’s capital. You’ll discover the rich tapestry of cultures that make Palermo so unique. Here are some of the highlights you’ll see:

– Martorana Church: Admire its stunning mosaics and rich history.

– Piazza Pretoria: Known for its beautiful fountain, often called the “Fountain of Shame.”

– Quattro Canti: The heart of Palermo, where four Baroque buildings meet at a bustling crossroads.

– Palermo Cathedral: A magnificent blend of architectural styles and a symbol of the city.

As you stroll through the old town, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about Palermo’s history and culture, bringing the city to life.

Afternoon: Free Time to Explore

After the tour, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Here are a few suggestions:

– Wander the Markets: Check out Vucciria or Ballarò markets for an authentic local experience.

– Relax at a Café: Find a cozy spot to enjoy a coffee or gelato.

– Explore More Sights: Visit other landmarks or simply enjoy getting lost in the charming streets.

🌙 Evening: Relax and Unwind 🌙

Spend a relaxing evening in Palermo. You might want to try a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying Sicilian dishes like pasta alla Norma or fresh seafood.

🏨 Overnight Stay 🏨 

You’ll spend another night at your comfortable accommodation. Rest well and get ready for more adventures ahead.

Highlights of the Day

– Guided walking tour showcasing Palermo’s top historical sites.

– Engaging stories and insights from a local expert guide.

– Free time to explore and experience Palermo at your own pace.

Enjoy discovering the beauty and charm of Palermo!

Day 8: ✨ Ciao! to Sicily or The Start of a New Adventure ✨

🛎️ Morning: Checkout and Departure 🛎️

Morning: Saying Goodbye to Palermo

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, savoring those final moments in this amazing city. Take a moment to reflect on all the incredible experiences you’ve had.

🚗 Private Transfer to Palermo Airport 🚗

Once you’re ready, a private driver will pick you up and take you to Palermo Airport. They’ll handle your luggage and make sure you get there smoothly and on time.

Extend Your Journey?

Not ready to head home yet? We can help you plan an extension to your trip. Whether you want to explore mainland Italy or visit other parts of Europe, just let us know when you book. We’re here to make your travel dreams a reality.

Highlights of the Day

– Relax and enjoy breakfast in Palermo.

– Convenient private transfer to the airport.

– Options to extend your trip to new destinations.

Thank you for letting us be part of your Sicilian adventure. If you have any questions or need more help, feel free to reach out to us at [info@italy4real.com].

Safe travels, and we hope to see you again soon!

Departure Dates

2026 Wednesday & Friday Departure Dates

2027 Wednesday & Friday Departure Dates

Pricing

For the “Small Group Highlights of Sicily tour, the pricing is as follows:

• Price in Double Room: Euro €2,999.00 per person.
  This rate applies when you are 2 people with each person staying in a double room with one or two beds, let us know which bed type you want when booking.
• Single Room Pricing:
  – Pricing for a single room is Euro €3,999.00 . If you prefer the privacy and comfort of a single room, please inquire for specific rates.
• Use our currency converter to convert Euro to USD here

These prices offer a comprehensive package covering accommodations, private ground services, guided tours, and unique culinary experiences, among other inclusions, ensuring a memorable and immersive journey through the stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Sicily.

Tour Extension Details: For those interested in extending their adventure with the Small Group Highlights of  Sicily Tour, our travel experts will work with you on a route pre or post tour to anywhere in mainland Italy or Western Europe.

For a complete trip across Italy and Sicily, consider our Big 3 tour of Rome, Florence, Tuscan and Venice prior to this Sicily tour for a longer trip.