We Love —
- Meandering through ancient streets, from the baroque beauty of Noto to the vibrant markets of Palermo, before taking in the volcanic majesty of Mount Etna.
- Experiencing Italy’s quieter side with sun-soaked beaches, dramatic cliffs, and rustic hilltop villages perched above the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea.
- Enjoying the freedom to explore at our own pace, paired with carefully selected stays to ensure the trip is as relaxing as it is inspiring.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Welcome to Italy —
Embark on a mesmerising road trip through Sicily, where ancient ruins, golden beaches, and fragrant orange groves set the stage for an unforgettable journey. Wander the baroque streets of Noto, marvel at Mount Etna’s volcanic majesty, and soak up the seaside charm of Taormina. After soaking in Sicily’s splendour, unwind in Calabria, where rugged cliffs and turquoise waters meet authentic Italian hospitality.
Our offers:
7 nights: 4 night Sicilian road trip and 3 nights in Calabria
9 nights: 5 night Sicilian road trip and 4 nights in Calabria
Your itinerary in brief —
Explore the best of Eastern Sicily in 4 or 5 nights with a hire car included. Begin in Catania, a lively city at the foot of Mount Etna, where you can admire the stunning Piazza del Duomo. Continue to Syracuse, home to the captivating island of Ortigia and a wealth of ancient Greek history. Stop in Noto, renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture, grand churches, and opulent palaces.
Venture up Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, for breathtaking views. Then, unwind in Taormina, a picturesque town with charming alleyways, stylish boutiques, and a spectacular Greek theatre overlooking the sea. Along the way, indulge in Sicilian specialities like arancini and cannoli. With a perfect blend of historic cities, dramatic landscapes, and sun-kissed coastal retreats, this road trip promises an unforgettable adventure.
Choose the length of your stay:
7 night stay:
Day 1: Arrive in Catania
Day 2: Syracuse & Noto
Day 3: Etna & Catania
Day 4: Taormina
Day 5: Catania - Calabria
Days 6 to 7: Calabria
Day 8: Depart Calabria
9 night stay:
Day 1: Arrive in Catania
Day 2: Syracuse
Day 3: Noto
Day 4: Etna & Catania
Day 5: Taormina
Day 6: Catania - Calabria
Days 7 to 9: Calabria
Day 10: Depart Calabria
The freedom to explore:
Discover our expertly curated self-guided tours, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your itinerary in detail —
7 night stay:
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN CATANIA
Welcome to Sicily! Touch down in Catania, where the Mediterranean breeze and the sight of Mount Etna set the scene for an unforgettable journey. After collecting your hire car, the island is yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander Catania’s historic streets, indulge in fresh seafood at a seaside trattoria, or set off towards the Baroque beauty of nearby towns, the choice is entirely yours. Relax, settle in, and savour the freedom of discovery.
- Breakfast included
- Pick up your car hire
- Night at one of the select hotels in Catania or Syracuse area
DAY 2: SYRACUSE & NOTO
Ancient grandeur meets sun-drenched elegance in Syracuse, where crumbling Greek temples and baroque piazzas overlook the shimmering Ionian Sea. Just a short drive away, Noto dazzles with honey-hued palazzi and ornate balconies, a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque where every street feels like a film set.
- Breakfast included
- Night at one of the select hotels in Catania or Syracuse area
DAY 3: ETNA AND CATANIA
Mount Etna dominates the horizon, a living, breathing force shaping Sicily’s wild heart. Hike its lunar landscapes or try fiery wines from its volcanic slopes, then descend to Catania—a city of contrasts where grand baroque facades, bustling markets, and a defiant spirit thrive in Etna’s shadow.
- Breakfast included
- Night at one of the select hotels in Catania or Syracuse area
DAY 4: TAORMINA
Perched high above the coast, Taormina is a vision of old-world glamour and Mediterranean charm. Cobbled lanes lead to chic cafés and flower-draped terraces, while the ancient Greek Theatre frames a breathtaking panorama—azure sea, rugged cliffs, and Etna’s smoky silhouette in the distance.
- Breakfast included
- Night at one of the select hotels in Catania or Syracuse area
DAY 5: CATANIA - CALABRIA
Leaving the vibrant streets of Catania behind, your journey continues across the Strait of Messina to Calabria, where rugged coastlines and timeless charm await. Your next stay is at UNICO Cannamele Escape Tropea by Life Resorts 4*, a tranquil retreat near one of Italy’s most stunning coastal towns.
Please note: Ferry transfer to Calabria is not included
- Breakfast included
- Night at UNICO Cannamele Escape Tropea by Life Resorts 4*
DAYS 6 TO 7: CALABRIA
In Calabria, time slows to the rhythm of the waves and sun-drenched afternoons. With free days to explore at your leisure, you can uncover Tropea’s dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and golden beaches or venture into the rugged Aspromonte mountains. Whether you choose to indulge in local cuisine, visit charming hilltop villages, or simply unwind at your hotel, this is your time to embrace Calabria’s untamed beauty.
- Breakfast included
- Night at UNICO Cannamele Escape Tropea by Life Resorts 4*
DAY 8: DEPART CALABRIA
As your journey through Sicily and Calabria comes to a close, enjoy your final moments soaking in the serene coastal views or reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the past week.
- Breakfast included
- Return your car hire
- Departure
9 NIGHT STAY:
By opting for a 9 night stay you'll prolong your journey with 1 additional night in Catania and 1 extra night in Calabria.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in a comfortable room at one of the following hotels in the Catania or Syracuse area: Hotel Airone Wellness 4*, Mareneve 4*, Villa Favorita 4*, Lanterne Magiche Ortigia or Agriturismo Badiula (or similar).
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Car hire: —
Discover the beauty of Sicily at your own pace and comfort with car hire (Category "B"- Fiat Panda or similar for up to 4 guests). The car can be picked up at the arrival airport (Palermo or Catania only).
UNICO Cannamele Escape Tropea by Life Resorts 4* —
The sophisticated UNICO Cannamele Escape Tropea by Life Resorts 4* boasts a prime location with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the renowned beaches of Parghelia, just 1.5 miles from Tropea. Offering a serene and welcoming ambience, this intimate retreat is cherished for its peaceful setting. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil escape, free from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Please note that your hotels may be located inside or outside cities and towns. You may park your car inside or outside the hotels (subject to availability). Additional charges may apply on-site.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Deluxe Room.
Deluxe Room (22 m²)
Relax in the Deluxe Room with Patio and indulge in a restful night's sleep during your stay in Calabria.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Savour the Cannamele Restaurant's exquisite specialities or treat yourself to a serene moment on the panoramic terrace, where you can unwind with stunning sea views while watching the sunset. In the evening, the SuperGrill serves up quick bites, refreshing cocktails, and delightful culinary surprises to tempt your taste buds.
Calabrian aperitif
Indulge in a refreshing Calabrian aperitif, featuring locally-inspired flavours that capture the essence of the region.
Your time
Indulge in outdoor relaxation amidst the vibrant garden of UNICO Cannamele Escape Tropea by Life Resorts 4*, where the air is filled with enchanting scents and colours. During the summer, unwind by the outdoor pool, soaking up the sun before venturing out to explore the captivating beauty and hidden gems of Calabria.
Included extras —
Tasting of 4 Calabrian wines (for 9 night bookings only)
Savour the essence of Calabria with a tasting of four exceptional local wines, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
Optional excursions —
Mobile data
Stay connected on your travels with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your complimentary eSIM and stay connected wherever you go. Share your hotspot, have easy access to maps, or find the best local spots to eat. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.
Your journey to Italy —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Car hire:
This package includes car hire, granting you autonomy to explore new horizons at your own pace! Embrace spontaneity as you journey through diverse landscapes, whether it's a scenic coastal drive, an adventure through rugged mountains, or a leisurely tour of charming towns. Renting a car empowers you to tailor your road trip experience to your preferences, turning each twist and turn of the road into a thrilling adventure. Important information if you are planning to book your own flights: In order to organise the pick-up of your vehicle at the airport, please inform us of your flight times within 48 hours of your booking by filling in the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, you will not be able to collect your vehicle.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: - This is available for arrivals at Palermo and Catania airports ONLY. - If the specified car category is not available, another category with the same characteristics will be issued. - In the event of non-use or partial use of the rental vehicle, no refund will be given. - EUROPCAR and HOLIDAY CAR RENTAL only accept the following debit cards: VISA DEBIT, MASTERCARD DEBIT, V-PAY. Prepaid and/or electronic cards and not linked to a customer bank account will not be accepted. - The card must be in the name of the driver. - A deposit on your credit card will be requested upon arrival at the agency. The deposit will be returned to you if the car is returned undamaged and with a full tank of petrol. - Otherwise, in addition to the fuel surcharge, a service charge of approximately 12.50 € will be applied. The above rates are valid for periods of at least 1 day (1 x 24 h). The vehicle must be returned at the same time as it was picked up. - Any delay of more than 30 minutes will incur an additional charge of one day according to the official local rate applied by the rental company, to be paid on the spot. - Minimum age of driver: 25 years old and in possession of a driving licence for more than one year. - Please note that from 21 to 24 years old there is the possibility to take the car with a "Young Driver" supplement of € 21,00 per day to be paid on the spot at the car rental counter. The price includes: - Unlimited mileage rental - VAT 22% - Airport charges and taxes (12% of the rental price). - Insurance: PAI (personal accident insurance) (driver and passengers); CDW: coverage of the risks of damage to the vehicle with a deductible of € 1,210.00; TW: theft or fire of the vehicle with a deductible of € 1.710,00 The price does not include: - Anything not expressly mentioned in the paragraph "the price includes". - Fines - 2nd and/or 3rd driver - Collection of the car outside the opening hours of the rental office. Important information regarding non-flight offers: In order for your rental car to be available upon arrival, please provide us with your flight schedule within 48 hours of your booking by filling out the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, your car may not be available in time.
Your destinations —
Sicily
Sicily is rightly considered one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations. It is the largest island in the Mediterranean and has long been known as a 'melting pot' of ancient cultures due to its location on the major Mediterranean shipping routes.
The landscape of Sicily is beautiful and varied. In the north-east, Mount Etna, with its fertile slopes and valleys, supports a number of vineyards. In the south-east there are the beautiful forest-covered mountains; the landscape characterised by soft hills, with vineyards, olive groves, almond trees, citrus and the characteristic carob trees.
To the west, the landscape becomes gentler with soft, rolling hills, and it is here one finds long sandy beaches. The weather is mild all year round and temperatures will not normally drop below 15 degrees, even in the coldest months.
Calabria
Separated from Sicily by the Strait of Messina, Calabria will seduce you with its wild nature and traditional cuisine.
Should you decide to visit the hinterland, you will discover unspoiled landscapes, lakes and waterfalls for moments of relaxation.
If you prefer the coast, you will be charmed by the clear colours of the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east. Be sure to visit the historical monuments and learn about the traditions of a people with a fascinating past.
