We Love —
- Embarking on a journey to discover the authentic flavours of Sicily, savouring local specialities like arancini, cannoli, and caponata, each bite telling a story of tradition.
- Exploring the Egadi Islands or the Zingaro Nature Reserve, wandering through unspoilt landscapes where turquoise waters meet dramatic cliffs and fragrant Mediterranean flora.
- Driving at your own pace along sun-drenched coastal roads, pausing in charming towns like Cefalù to stroll through cobbled streets, admire Norman architecture, and taste fresh seafood by the sea.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through Sicily, where every winding road leads to a new discovery. Travelling at your own pace, explore an island rich in flavours and traditions, from coastal villages to ancient hilltop towns. Taste authentic Sicilian dishes, crafted with local ingredients like sun-ripened tomatoes, wild oregano, and freshly caught seafood, each meal reflecting centuries of heritage.
Delve into the island’s diverse landscapes, driving along scenic coastal routes and through lush countryside. Wander through historic markets, sample regional wines, and experience the warmth of Sicilian hospitality in family-run trattorias. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through medieval streets or a spontaneous detour to a secluded beach, this 5, 7, or 9-night self-drive tour promises a perfect balance of gastronomy and exploration.
Choose from the following itineraries:
5 nights:
- Day 1: Arrival at Palermo airport and car pick-up
- Day 2: Cefalù and Castelbuono
- Day 3: Palermo and Monreale
- Day 4: Segesta and Erice
- Day 5: The Egadi Islands
- Day 6: Departure towards Palermo airport and car return
7 nights:
- Day 1: Arrival at Palermo airport and car pick-up
- Day 2: Cefalù and Castelbuono
- Day 3: Palermo
- Day 4: Monreale and Monte Pellegrino
- Day 5: Segesta and Erice
- Day 6: The Egadi Islands
- Day 7: The Salt Pans at your leisure / Traditional Sicilian lunch at a restaurant (drinks not included)
- Day 8: Departure towards Palermo airport and car return
9 nights:
- Day 1: Arrival at Palermo airport and car pick-up
- Day 2: Cefalù and Castelbuono
- Day 3: Palermo
- Day 4: Monreale and Monte Pellegrino
- Day 5: Zingaro Nature Reserve
- Day 6: Marsala and Trapani
- Day 7: Segesta and Erice
- Day 8: The Egadi Islands
- Day 9: The Salt Pans at your leisure / Traditional Sicilian lunch at a restaurant (drinks not included)
- Day 10: Departure towards Palermo Airport and car return
Please note:
- Your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
- The proposed routes are suggested itineraries, and the activities mentioned are recommendations and not included unless otherwise stated.
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 —
5 night itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO AIRPORT
- Touchdown at Palermo's Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) and collect your hire car.
- Your holiday begins with a short drive to your hotel in the Palermo or Cefalù region, following the directions provided in your travel documents.
- After check-in, choose to relax at the hotel or take a leisurely stroll and start to drink in the Sicilian sunshine...
Overnight stay according to the programme.
DAY 2: CEFALÙ AND CASTELBUONO
- Enjoy breakfast before heading to Cefalù, a picturesque medieval town by the sea.
- Wander through the historic centre, exploring narrow streets and discovering landmarks like the Osterio Magno and the medieval washhouse carved into the rock.
- Admire the Norman cathedral, with its stunning mosaic of Christ Pantocrator dominating the apse.
- Continue to Castelbuono, a charming village nestled in the Madonie Natural Park.
- Stroll through the town and visit the impressive Ventimiglia Castle.
- Free evening for dinner and return to the hotel for the night.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: PALERMO AND MONREALE
- After breakfast, set out to explore Palermo, beginning with a tour of the historic centre.
- See the Quattro Canti, a Baroque square at the intersection of two main avenues.
- Visit La Martorana, a Byzantine and Baroque church known for its intricate mosaics.
- Discover Palermo Cathedral, which blends centuries of architectural styles and houses the relics of Saint Rosalia.
- Travel to Monreale, where the Cathedral of William II showcases breathtaking gold mosaics.
- If time permits, drive up to Monte Pellegrino for panoramic views of the city and visit the Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia.
- Free evening for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 4: SEGESTA AND ERICE
- After breakfast, drive to Segesta, an ancient city perched on Mount Barbaro.
- Explore the Doric temple, a majestic relic of Greek architecture surrounded by rolling hills.
- Continue to Erice, a captivating medieval hilltop town overlooking the sea, the Aegadian Islands, and Trapani.
- Wander the maze of stone-paved streets and admire the Castle of Venus, built on the site of a Roman temple.
- Free evening for dinner and return to the hotel.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: THE AEGADIAN ISLANDS
- After breakfast, head to the port of Trapani or Marsala to embark on a boat trip to the Aegadian Islands.
- Arrive at Favignana, the largest island, famous for the ancient mattanza tuna fishing tradition.
- Enjoy a guided crossing and explore the village, seeing landmarks like Palazzo Florio and the old tonnara.
- Relax by the sea with a swim at Cala Rossa or Cala Azzurra, renowned for their crystal-clear waters.
- Continue to Levanzo, a small, rugged island with dramatic coastal cliffs.
- Visit the quaint port village and sample a refreshing granita, a classic Sicilian dessert.
- Free evening for dinner and return to the hotel.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: DEPARTURE
- Breakfast at the hotel (depending upon the hotel restaurant hours and your departure time).
- Check out and drive to Palermo Airport to return your hire car and prepare for departure.
7 night itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO
- Touchdown at Palermo's Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) and collect your hire car.
- Drive to your hotel in the Palermo or Cefalù region, following the directions provided in your travel documents.
- After check-in, choose to relax at the hotel or explore the city’s vibrant streets.
- Dinner at leisure (not included).
Overnight stay according to the programme.
DAY 2: DISCOVER CEFALÙ AND CASTELBUONO
- Breakfast at the hotel before heading to Cefalù, a charming medieval town by the sea.
- Wander through narrow streets, visit the historic Cefalù Cathedral, and admire the Byzantine mosaics.
- Continue to Castelbuono, a picturesque village nestled in the Madonie Natural Park.
- Stroll through the town centre and visit Ventimiglia Castle, a medieval gem.
- Return to the hotel, dinner at leisure.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: PALERMO'S HISTORIC TREASURES
- Breakfast at the hotel and depart for a full day in Palermo.
- Start with a panoramic tour, exploring iconic landmarks like the Quattro Canti and the Palermo Cathedral.
- Discover the Martorana Church, with its blend of Byzantine and Baroque styles, featuring intricate mosaics.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 4: MONREALE AND MONTEPELLEGRINO
- After breakfast, head to Monreale to visit the stunning Monreale Cathedral, which is renowned for its gold mosaics.
- Enjoy a scenic drive up to Montepellegrino, offering breathtaking views of Palermo and the coastline.
- Visit the Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia, a significant pilgrimage site.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: ANTIQUITY IN SEGESTA AND MEDIEVAL ERICE
- Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a journey to Segesta.
- Explore the Doric Temple of Segesta, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by rugged hills.
- Continue to Erice, a medieval town perched on Mount Eryx, overlooking the Egadi Islands and Trapani.
- Stroll through stone-paved streets, visit the Castle of Venus, and take in panoramic views.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: THE EGADI ISLANDS' COASTAL BEAUTY
- Breakfast at the hotel, then head to the port for a ferry to the Egadi Islands.
- Visit Favignana, known for its crystal-clear waters and historic tuna fisheries.
- Explore Levanzo, a small island with dramatic cliffs and a quaint harbour.
- Free time to swim, wander, or enjoy a refreshing granita.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 7: THE SALT PANS AND A SICILIAN FEAST
- Breakfast at the hotel before visiting the Salt Pans of Trapani.
- Walk through the WWF-protected nature reserve, home to vibrant salt marshes and traditional windmills.
- Enjoy a Sicilian lunch featuring local dishes like caponata, busiata pasta, and cannoli (drinks excluded).
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM PALERMO
- Breakfast at the hotel (timing subject to restaurant hours).
- Check-out and drive to Palermo Airport for car rental return and departure.
9 night itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT PALERMO AIRPORT
- Touchdown at Palermo's Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) and collect your hire car.
- Drive to your hotel in either the Palermo or Cefalù region, following the details provided in your travel documents.
- After check-in, choose to relax at the hotel or take a stroll through the city.
- Dinner at your leisure (not included), return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
DAY 2: CEFALÙ AND CASTELBUONO
- After breakfast, head to Cefalù, a charming medieval town by the sea.
- Wander through narrow streets and discover architectural gems like the Osterio Magno and the medieval washhouse carved into the rock.
- Explore Cefalù Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture, with a stunning mosaic of Christ Pantocrator in the apse.
- Continue to Castelbuono, a village in the Madonie Natural Park, founded by the Byzantines.
- Stroll through the town and visit Ventimiglia Castle.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 3: PALERMO
- Enjoy breakfast before heading to Palermo for a city tour.
- Start at the historic centre with the Quattro Canti, an iconic intersection dividing the city into four quarters.
- Visit La Martorana, a Greek Orthodox church with Byzantine mosaics and baroque details.
- Explore the Palermo Cathedral, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution from the 12th to the 19th century.
- See the chapel containing the relics of Saint Rosalia, Palermo's patron saint.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 4: MONREALE AND MONTEPELLEGRINO
- After breakfast, drive to Monreale, overlooking Palermo.
- Visit the Monreale Cathedral, famous for its gold mosaics depicting biblical scenes.
- Continue to Monte Pellegrino, a mountain offering panoramic views of Palermo.
- Explore the Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia, a pilgrimage site since the 17th century.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 5: ZINGARO NATURE RESERVE
- After breakfast, pack hiking shoes, swimwear, and water.
- Drive to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and sea lovers.
- Follow trails along limestone cliffs and discover hidden coves with crystal-clear waters.
- Option for a swim in secluded bays.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 6: MARSALA AND TRAPANI
- After breakfast, drive along the Via del Sale to Marsala.
- Pass by salt marshes with windmills and shimmering salt pans.
- Take a boat tour through the salt flats and visit Motya Island, home to Phoenician ruins.
- Explore Marsala's baroque historic centre and port, where Garibaldi landed in 1860.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 7: SEGESTA AND ERICE
- After breakfast, drive to Segesta, an ancient city on Mount Barbaro.
- Visit the Doric temple, a striking example of Greek architecture.
- In the afternoon, continue to Erice, a medieval town perched on Mount Eryx.
- Wander through winding streets and admire the Castle of Venus, built on a Roman temple.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 8: THE EGADI ISLANDS
- After breakfast, head to the port in Trapani or Marsala.
- Board a boat to the Egadi Islands, just miles off the Sicilian coast.
- Start with Favignana, known for its traditional tuna fishing.
- Explore the village, visit Florio Palace, and swim in the azure waters of Cala Rossa or Cala Azzurra.
- Sail to Levanzo, a small island with rugged coastlines.
- Enjoy free time to explore the village and try a Sicilian granita.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 9: SALT PANS AND SICILIAN LUNCH
- After breakfast, visit the Trapani Salt Pans.
- Explore the WWF-protected reserves and Stagnone Lagoon.
- Admire the windmills, saline landscapes, and shimmering salt pools.
- Enjoy a typical Sicilian lunch (drinks excluded) at a restaurant near the salt flats.
- Sample caponata, panelle, and busiata pasta with pesto alla Trapanese.
- Dinner at your leisure, return to the hotel, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay according to the programme.
Breakfast included.
DAY 10: DEPARTURE
- Breakfast (depending on restaurant hours).
- Check-out and drive to Palermo Airport to return your hire car and depart for home, with a myriad of wonderful memories.
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
Enjoy a carefully selected range of hotels during your journey through Sicily:
- Palermo or Cefalù region: Domina Zagarella 4* in Santa Flavia, Dolcestate 4* in Campofelice Roccella, Casena dei Colli 4* in Palermo, BB Hotel 4 Canti 3* in Palermo, or similar.
- Trapani or Marsala region: Sea Water 4* in Marsala, Venere di Erice 4* in Erice, Room of Andrea 4* in Trapani, or similar.
Your stay will be organised as follows, depending on the itinerary chosen:
5 night stay:
- 2 nights in the Palermo or Cefalù region + 3 nights in the Trapani or Marsala region
or - 3 nights in the Palermo or Cefalù region + 2 nights in the Trapani or Marsala region
7 night stay:
4 nights in the Palermo or Cefalù region + 3 nights in the Trapani or Marsala region
- or
- 3 nights in the Palermo or Cefalù region + 4 nights in the Trapani or Marsala region
9 night stay:
- 4 nights in the Palermo or Cefalù region + 5 nights in the Trapani or Marsala region
or - 5 nights in the Palermo or Cefalù region + 4 nights in the Trapani or Marsala region
In the event of the unavailability of the above-mentioned hotels, accommodation will be provided in hotels of a similar category.
The maximum capacity of the rooms is 3 adults or 1 adult and 2 children. Single occupancy is available for an additional supplement.
Your dining choices
This is a bed & breakfast stay. Start your day with the authentic flavours of Sicily.
Your optional extras & excursions —
Visit Florio winery in Marsala
Step into one of Sicily’s oldest and most prestigious wine cellars, where history and flavour come together. Discover the art of Marsala wine production and enjoy a guided tasting experience.
Further information about your excursion:
- Explore the historic Florio Winery in Marsala, learning about the rich heritage of Sicilian winemaking.
- Wine tasting with pairings: Savour three varieties of Marsala wine, expertly paired with small local delicacies.
- Plan ahead: Advance booking is required, and self-drive to the winery is recommended (car rental advised).
- Tour schedule: Monday to Friday - 10.00 am (English), 3.30 pm (Italian). Saturday - 10.00 am (English).
- Duration: The visit lasts around 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- Exceptionally closed on the following dates: The winery is closed on public holidays
Optional mini cruise to the Egadi Islands: Favignana & Levanzo
Embark on a delightful mini-cruise, setting sail from Trapani. Discover Favignana’s charming town, secluded coves, and the Florio Tuna Museum. Enjoy swimming, a fresh onboard lunch, and a visit to Levanzo’s fishing village before returning to port at 5.30 pm.
Further information about your excursion:
- Depart from Trapani at 9.30 am, sailing towards the island of Favignana, with arrival expected around 10.20 am.
- Upon docking, enjoy free time to discover the town’s charming centre, browse local shops, or swim in the inviting waters of the beach located directly opposite the port.
- For those with a curiosity for local history, a visit to the Florio Tuna Museum provides an insightful look into the island’s fishing traditions.
- Set sail again at 12.30 pm for a leisurely navigation around the island.
- Pause at idyllic coves such as Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, where, weather permitting, you may swim in the crystal-clear waters.
- Afterwards, savour a freshly prepared lunch on board, featuring penne al pesto alla Trapanese, accompanied by water, wine, and seasonal fruit.
- Following lunch, continue the journey to Levanzo, arriving for an hour-long stop in the picturesque fishing village.
- Stroll through its quiet streets or sample refreshing granitas and renowned artisanal gelato.
- Departing Levanzo, the cruise glides past the Faraglione rock formation, revealing secluded coves like Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola, perfect for admiring the island’s unspoilt beauty.
- The day concludes with a return to Trapani, arriving at approximately 5.30 pm.
Practical information:
- Departure from Trapani: 9.30 am
- Arrival at Favignana: approximately 10.20 am
- Departure from Favignana: 12.30 pm
- Return to Trapani: approximately 5.30 pm
Important details:
This excursion is available daily but is not suitable for individuals with reduced mobility or for pregnant women.
What's included:
- Maritime crossings to and from the islands
- Entry taxes for the Egadi Islands
What's note included:
- Hotel transfers to and from the port
- Transport on the islands
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Any food or beverages not mentioned in the inclusions
- Anything not expressly listed as included
A note regarding possible weather-related changes:
- The excursion itinerary, departure times, and return schedules may be subject to change depending on weather conditions.
- In the event of cancellation due to adverse weather, a refund will be issued.
Your journey to Sicily —
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.
Your destination —
Sicily
Welcome to Sicily
A sun-drenched mosaic of cultures, Sicily is a land where ancient history and dramatic landscapes collide. Greek temples rise from golden plains, Baroque cities gleam under the Mediterranean sun, and Mount Etna smoulders on the horizon. Whether you're drawn to its archaeological wonders, pristine beaches, or time-honoured traditions, Sicily captivates with its raw beauty and rich heritage.
Don’t miss:
- The Valley of the Temples – an awe-inspiring collection of ancient Greek ruins in Agrigento
- Palermo’s vibrant markets – a sensory overload of colour, noise, and mouth-watering street food
- Taormina’s ancient theatre – a spectacular setting with Mount Etna as a backdrop
- The Aeolian Islands – a volcanic archipelago perfect for hiking, diving, and unwinding
- Baroque splendour in Noto, Ragusa, and Modica – stunning towns that are works of art in themselves
Culinary culture:
Sicilian cuisine is a feast of sun-ripened flavours and multicultural influences. Cannoli and cassata showcase the island’s sweet tooth, while arancini – crisp, golden rice balls – are a beloved street food staple. Seafood lovers can savour pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines) and fresh swordfish, while the island’s citrus groves provide zesty delights. Pair it all with a glass of bold Nero d’Avola or a chilled Marsala wine for the perfect taste of Sicily.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the postcard sights, Sicily is home to unique cultural gems. Witness the fiery spectacle of Easter’s Processione dei Misteri in Trapani or experience the age-old Opera dei Pupi, a traditional marionette theatre. In the countryside, age-old bagli (fortified farmsteads) offer a glimpse into Sicily’s rural soul, while Marsala's salt pans shimmer in pink and gold hues at sunset.
Good to know:
Sicily enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters – spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing. Public transport links major cities, but renting a car is the best way to explore remote villages and coastal hideaways. The currency is the euro, and while Italian is the official language, many locals speak Sicilian, a distinct and poetic dialect shaped by the island’s layered history.
