DURATION: 5, 7 or 9 nights
BEST FOR:  Cultural immersion
PACE: Relaxed

Explore Sicily

Set off on a scenic journey through Sicily’s south-east, where Baroque towns, coastal villages and volcanic landscapes unfold at your own rhythm. From the lively streets of Catania to the refined charm of Taormina, each stop reveals a different facet of the island’s rich identity.

Follow winding roads through UNESCO-listed gems, pause in authentic fishing villages and take in sweeping views between turquoise seas and sunlit countryside — a road trip designed for freedom, discovery and effortless immersion.

Your suggested itineraries:

5-night road trip: 

Day 1: Arrival in Catania

Day 2: Catania ⇄ Taormina

Day 3: Catania → Syracuse → Ortigia

Day 4: Noto → Marzamemi

Day 5: Modica → Ragusa

Day 6: Departure from Catania

7-night road trip: 

Day 1: Arrival in Catania

Day 2: Catania ⇄ Taormina

Day 3: Catania ⇄ Mount Etna 

Day 4: Catania → Syracuse → Ortigia

Day 5: Noto → Marzamemi

Day 6: Marzamemi → Modica → Ragusa

Day 7: Ragusa → Cavagrande

Day 8: Departure from Catania

9-night road trip: 

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CATANIA

Arrive at Catania Airport (CTA) and collect your rental car before heading to your hotel in the Catania area. Depending on your arrival time, begin your first discovery of the city, known for its Baroque architecture in volcanic stone, lively squares and authentic Sicilian atmosphere.

Included:

• Car hire pick-up at Catania Airport (CTA)
• Night in the Catania area

DAY 2: CATANIA ⇄ TAORMINA

Spend the morning exploring Catania, with its vibrant markets and historic centre set against the backdrop of Mount Etna.

Later, drive to Giardini Naxos for a boat excursion along the Taormina coastline (approx. 2 hours). From the sea, admire Capo di Naxos, the bay of Naxos, the Grotta del Giorno, Capo Taormina, the Faraglioni, Isola Bella, the Blue Grotto and the bay of Mazzarò.

Enjoy a short swimming and snorkelling stop, followed by a tasting of almond paste and prosecco on board. Continue your visit of Taormina at your own pace.

Included:

• Boat excursion along the Taormina coast
• Night in the Catania area with breakfast included

DAY 3: CATANIA → SYRACUSE → ORTIGIA

Drive to Syracuse, an ancient Greek city rich in history. Discover its archaeological park, then continue to the island of Ortigia, the historic heart of the city. Wander through narrow streets, bright squares and along the seafront, enjoying a relaxed and immersive atmosphere.

Included:

• Night in the Syracuse area with breakfast included

DAY 4: NOTO → MARZAMEMI

Travel to Noto, renowned for its elegant Baroque architecture and golden tones. Stroll through its historic centre before continuing to Marzamemi, a charming fishing village. With its small squares, colourful buildings and views over the sea, it offers an ideal setting for a leisurely break.

Included:

• Night in the Syracuse area with breakfast included

DAY 5: MODICA → RAGUSA

Travel to Noto, renowned for its elegant Baroque architecture and golden tones. Stroll through its historic centre before continuing to Marzamemi, a charming fishing village. With its small squares, colourful buildings and views over the sea, it offers an ideal setting for a leisurely break.

Included:

• Night in the Syracuse area with breakfast included

DAY 6: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA

Drive back to Catania Airport (CTA) and return your rental car before your departure.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Car hire drop-off at Catania Airport (CTA)

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CATANIA

Arrive at Catania Airport (CTA) and collect your rental car before heading to your hotel in the Catania area. Depending on your arrival time, begin your first discovery of the city, known for its Baroque architecture in volcanic stone, lively squares and authentic Sicilian atmosphere.

Included:

• Car hire pick-up at Catania Airport (CTA)
• Night in the Catania area

DAY 2: CATANIA ⇄ TAORMINA

Spend the morning exploring Catania, with its vibrant markets and historic centre set against the backdrop of Mount Etna.

Later, drive to Giardini Naxos for a boat excursion along the Taormina coastline (approx. 2 hours). From the sea, admire Capo di Naxos, the bay of Naxos, the Grotta del Giorno, Capo Taormina, the Faraglioni, Isola Bella, the Blue Grotto and the bay of Mazzarò.

Enjoy a short swimming and snorkelling stop, followed by a tasting of almond paste and prosecco on board. Continue your visit of Taormina at your own pace.

Included:

• Boat excursion along the Taormina coast
• Night in the Catania area with breakfast included

DAY 3: CATANIA ⇄ MOUNT ETNA

Set off towards Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Discover its unique landscapes shaped by lava flows and enjoy sweeping views over the island. Return to Catania in the afternoon.

Included:

• Night in the Catania area with breakfast included

DAY 4: CATANIA → SYRACUSE → ORTIGIA

Drive to Syracuse, an ancient Greek city rich in history. Discover its archaeological park, then continue to the island of Ortigia, the historic heart of the city. Wander through narrow streets, bright squares and along the seafront, enjoying a relaxed and immersive atmosphere.

Included:

• Night in the Syracuse area with breakfast included

DAY 5: NOTO → MARZAMEMI

Travel to Noto, renowned for its elegant Baroque architecture and golden tones. Stroll through its historic centre before continuing to Marzamemi, a charming fishing village. With its small squares, colourful buildings and views over the sea, it offers an ideal setting for a leisurely break.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CATANIA

Arrive at Catania Airport (CTA) and collect your rental car before heading to your hotel in the Catania area. Depending on your arrival time, begin your first discovery of the city, known for its Baroque architecture in volcanic stone, lively squares and authentic Sicilian atmosphere.

Included:

• Car hire pick-up at Catania Airport (CTA)
• Night in the Catania area

DAY 2: CATANIA ⇄ TAORMINA

Spend the morning exploring Catania, with its vibrant markets and historic centre set against the backdrop of Mount Etna.

Later, drive to Giardini Naxos for a boat excursion along the Taormina coastline (approx. 2 hours). From the sea, admire Capo di Naxos, the bay of Naxos, the Grotta del Giorno, Capo Taormina, the Faraglioni, Isola Bella, the Blue Grotto and the bay of Mazzarò.

Enjoy a short swimming and snorkelling stop, followed by a tasting of almond paste and prosecco on board. Continue your visit of Taormina at your own pace.

Included:

• Boat excursion along the Taormina coast
• Night in the Catania area with breakfast included

DAY 3: CATANIA ⇄ MOUNT ETNA

Set off towards Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Discover its unique landscapes shaped by lava flows and enjoy sweeping views over the island. Return to Catania in the afternoon.

At each of your stops, you will be staying in Standard Rooms in thoughtfully selected 4* hotels.

4* hotels (or similar):

• Catania / Syracuse area: Airone Wellness (Zafferana Etnea), Villa Favorita (Noto), Lanterne Magiche Ortigia (Syracuse), Agriturismo Badiula (Carlentini)
• Ragusa / Modica area: Relais Parco Cavalonga (Ragusa), Modica Boutique Hotel (Modica), Poggio del Sole (Ragusa)

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.

After breakfast, departure for Giardini Naxos for a 2-hour cruise along the Ionian coastline. Sail past beautiful coves, sea caves and striking cliffs, with stunning views over Taormina and Mount Etna (weather permitting).

Explore the island of Ortigia from the sea on a boat trip. Learn more about its thousand-year-old history, admire its emblematic sites and enjoy a swim before returning to the port.

Fly over Mount Etna in a helicopter for 30 minutes and admire active craters, lava flows and exceptional panoramic views of Sicily, Taormina, Catania and the Aeolian Islands for an unforgettable experience.

Catania, set against the backdrop of Mount Etna on Sicily’s eastern coast, is a city where baroque grandeur meets the raw force of nature. With a UNESCO-listed historic centre, palaces built from black and white lava stone rise above lively piazzas, while the air buzzes with the sound of markets and café life.

Must-sees:

• Catania’s Piazza del Duomo: The UNESCO-listed main square, home to the Cathedral of Sant’Agata and the Elephant Fountain, symbol of the city.
• Teatro Romano: Ancient ruins in the city centre, where echoes of Greek and Roman performances still linger.
• Via Etnea: The grand boulevard stretching from Piazza del Duomo towards Mount Etna, lined with baroque façades, boutiques and cafés.
• La Pescheria: The vibrant fish market, a sensory feast of colours, sounds and aromas.Monastero dei Benedettini: One of Europe’s largest monasteries, an architectural jewel blending history and culture.

Culinary culture:

Catania is a paradise for Sicilian flavours. Savour pasta alla Norma, a dish of aubergines, tomatoes, ricotta salata and basil named after Bellini’s famous opera. Street food is a highlight too: try arancini, crispy rice balls with rich fillings, or cannoli, Sicily’s most iconic dessert. Pair your meal with a glass of Etna Rosso, a red wine grown on the volcanic slopes.

Dive deeper:

Climb or take an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, for craters, lava flows and vineyards. Explore the Riviera dei Ciclopi, dotted with fishing villages such as Aci Trezza, linked to Homeric legend. For art lovers, Catania celebrates its most famous son, composer Vincenzo Bellini, whose legacy lives on in the opera house and city museums.

Good to know:

Catania is approximately 15 minutes from Catania–Fontanarossa Airport, which offers direct flights to destinations across Europe. The best time to visit is in spring (April to June), when the weather is pleasantly warm, the historic streets less crowded and Mount Etna still capped with snow. The local currency is the euro (EUR).

Famed for its dazzling coastline, stunningly diverse history and delectable cuisine, Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a destination that constantly impresses and evolves, welcoming a consistent flock of year-round tourists.

Aside from the capital Palermo, another prime spot for your island bucket list has to be Sicily's 'pearl', Taormina, where captivating views of Mount Etna accompany azure waters, quaint beachside cafés, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.

Must-sees:

• The Teatro Antico di Taormina, a Greco-Roman theatre with panoramic views over the coast
• The Isola Bella, a tiny island and nature reserve ideal for sunbathing and snorkelling
• The town’s picturesque corso, lined with boutiques, gelaterias, and lively piazzas

Culinary culture:

Sicily’s cuisine is a rich tapestry woven from Greek, Arab, and Norman influences. Begin your day with a traditional Sicilian breakfast of warm brioche paired with creamy granita or fresh pastries topped with local citrus jam. For lunch or dinner, sample arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma, or freshly caught seafood. Don't forget a glass of Etna Rosso or a sweet cannolo to end on a high note.

Dive deeper: 

For a more intimate experience of Sicilian life, venture beyond the coast. Hike the scenic trails around Mount Tauro for breathtaking views of the coastline and Mount Etna. In the evenings, enjoy local theatre performances or music festivals that bring the town’s rich cultural heritage to life. 

Good to know:

Sicily enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, ideal for year-round travel. Renting a car can be the best way to explore the island’s more remote treasures, though trains and buses connect most major towns. Sicilians are known for their warm hospitality, so don’t be surprised if you're welcomed with open arms, and maybe a plate of pasta.

Nestled on the southeastern coast of Sicily, Syracuse is a city steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. With its rich cultural heritage, fascinating archaeological sites, and the beauty of both ancient architecture and the Sicilian countryside, Syracuse offers visitors a remarkable journey through time. From its Baroque buildings to its ancient Greek ruins, Syracuse is a blend of cultures, making it one of the most captivating cities in Sicily.

Must-sees:

• The Archaeological Park of Neapolis: Explore the vast collection of ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, and the Roman Amphitheatre.
• Island of Ortigia: The historic heart of Syracuse, where you can stroll through narrow streets lined with beautiful Baroque buildings and visit the Piazza del Duomo and the Cathedral of Syracuse, built on the ruins of a 5th-century BC temple.
• The Fountain of Arethusa: A symbol of Syracuse, this freshwater spring is surrounded by lush vegetation and overlooks the sea.
• Castello Maniace: A stunning 13th-century fortress located at the southern tip of Ortigia Island, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
• Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi: A treasure trove of ancient Sicilian artefacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewellery, showcasing the region's rich history.

Culinary culture:

Syracuse offers a delightful mix of Mediterranean flavours, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Sicilian dishes. Try arancini, the famous rice balls filled with meat or cheese, or enjoy a bowl of pasta alla Norma, a dish made with eggplant, ricotta salata, and tomato sauce. The local caponata, a sweet and sour vegetable stew, is another must-try dish. Don’t forget to sample granita, a Sicilian icy dessert, or indulge in cannoli, a classic pastry filled with ricotta cheese. The nearby countryside produces excellent wines, particularly those made from Nero d’Avola, a local grape variety.

Dive deeper:

To fully appreciate Syracuse, take the time to explore its more hidden gems. Wander the Piazza Archimede to discover the legacy of the famous ancient mathematician. Visit the Jewish Quarter of Ortigia to uncover the city’s Jewish history. For a taste of the island’s nature, venture into the nearby Pantalica Nature Reserve, home to ancient cave tombs and lush vegetation. The island’s rural landscapes, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards, also invite exploration, offering visitors a chance to connect with the region's agricultural traditions.

Good to know:

The city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it an excellent destination year-round. Temperatures rarely dip below 15°C, even in the coldest months, ensuring that Syracuse is a comfortable place to visit at any time. The city’s charming streets are best explored on foot, with narrow alleys and ancient squares waiting to be discovered. Syracuse is well-connected to other major Sicilian destinations, making it an ideal base for further exploration of the island.