We love —
- Discovering Sicily’s layered heritage through Palermo’s vibrant streets, baroque churches, and atmospheric historic quarters.
- Sailing along Taormina’s coastline, discovering hidden coves, sea caves, Isola Bella, and crystalline Mediterranean waters.
- Wandering Cefalù’s medieval lanes, where golden stone facades meet sparkling sea air and gentle coastal rhythms.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 7, 9 or 11 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Relaxed
Explore Sicily
Explore Sicily on a scenic self-drive journey linking historic towns, archaeological treasures and striking coastal and volcanic scenery. Each stage offers a distinct atmosphere, from vibrant Palermo to the elegance of the southeast and the dramatic presence of Mount Etna.
Choose the length of your stay:
7-night itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Palermo
- Day 2: Palermo & Monreale
- Day 3: Cefalù
- Day 4: Mount Etna
- Day 5: Etna & Taormina
- Day 6: Syracuse & Ortigia
- Day 7: Noto or Vendicari Nature Reserve
- Day 8: Departure from Catania
9-night itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Palermo
- Day 2: Palermo & Monreale
- Day 3: Cefalù
- Day 4: Segesta & Erice
- Day 5: Mount Etna
- Day 6: Etna & Taormina
- Day 7: Taormina & Transfer to Syracuse
- Day 8: Syracuse & Ortigia
- Day 9: Noto or Vendicari Nature Reserve
- Day 10: Departure from Catania
11-night itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Palermo
- Day 2: Palermo & Monreale
- Day 3: Cefalù
- Day 4: Segesta & Erice
- Day 5: Mount Etna
- Day 6: Taormina & Boat Excursion
- Day 7: Catania
- Day 8: Syracuse & Ortigia
- Day 9: Noto & Modica
- Day 10: Ragusa Ibla & Scicli
- Day 11: Vendicari Nature Reserve
- Day 12: Departure from Catania Airport
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
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 road trip
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO
Touch down in Palermo and collect your hire car before making your way to your hotel in the Palermo or Cefalù area. The rest of the day is yours to ease into the Sicilian way of life, where sea views, historic villages and lively piazzas set the scene for the days ahead. Later, settle in for a leisurely dinner and your first introduction to the island's rich culinary traditions.
Included:
- Car hire collection at Palermo Airport (PMO)
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna 4* or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 2: PALERMO & MONREALE
This morning invites you into the heart of Palermo, where bustling piazzas, ornate churches and centuries of history create a captivating atmosphere. Stroll through the city's most celebrated landmarks, from the iconic Quattro Canti to the richly decorated interiors of La Martorana and Palermo Cathedral. By the afternoon, continue to Monreale, whose magnificent cathedral is illuminated by thousands of golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes. The surrounding hillside setting offers a peaceful contrast to the energy of Palermo below.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna 4*, or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 3: CEFALU
A scenic drive brings you to Cefalù, where centuries of history unfold against a backdrop of sparkling coastal views. Stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés and historic buildings, pausing to visit the medieval washhouse and the former royal residence of Osterio Magno. The town's cathedral remains the highlight, its remarkable Byzantine mosaics glowing beneath vaulted interiors. Later, enjoy a relaxed evening by the sea as fishing boats gently sway in the harbour.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna 4* or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 4: MOUNT ETNA
Leaving western Sicily behind, journey east towards the slopes of Mount Etna, where the landscape gradually transforms into a dramatic tapestry of volcanic rock and ancient lava flows. After settling into your hotel, venture onto Europe's highest active volcano and discover a world shaped by centuries of eruptions. Craters, blackened terrain and sweeping views across the island create a striking contrast to the coastal scenery of previous days. As evening falls, relax amid the peaceful surroundings of Etna's foothills.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 5: ETNA & TAORMINA
Awake beneath the shadow of Mount Etna, spend the morning discovering more of its dramatic volcanic scenery. Vast lava fields, rugged craters and panoramic viewpoints provide a striking reminder of the forces that continue to shape this extraordinary landscape. By the afternoon, the focus shifts to Taormina, where flower-filled terraces, historic piazzas and sweeping sea views create one of Sicily's most enchanting settings. A visit to the Ancient Theatre offers an unforgettable perspective over both the coastline and the volcano.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 6: SYRACUSE & ORTIGA
Leaving the Etna region behind, travel towards Syracuse, a city shaped by centuries of Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Norman influence. Explore the remarkable Archaeological Park of Neapolis before crossing to Ortigia, where narrow lanes open onto sunlit squares framed by magnificent Baroque architecture. Along the waterfront, gentle sea breezes and views across the Ionian Sea create a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere. The day concludes in the peaceful surroundings of your hotel in the Syracuse or Ragusa region.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 7: NOTO OR VENDICARI NATURE RESERVE
Your final full day in Sicily can be spent exploring the remarkable town of Noto or the wild beauty of the Vendicari coastline. In Noto, magnificent Baroque facades glow beneath the southern Sicilian sun, while elegant churches and aristocratic palaces reveal the city's rich heritage. Those drawn to nature may prefer Vendicari, where secluded beaches, coastal lagoons and ancient ruins create a landscape of rare tranquillity. As evening arrives, savour one last taste of Sicilian hospitality.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA
Savour a relaxed final morning before departing for Catania Airport. The drive offers a final glimpse of Sicily's distinctive scenery, from rolling countryside to distant coastal views. On arrival, return your hire car and prepare for your onward flight, bringing a memorable road trip through one of Italy's most captivating regions to a close.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Car hire return at Catania Airport (CTA)
9-night road trip
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO
Touch down in Palermo and collect your hire car before making your way to your hotel in the Palermo or Cefalù area. The rest of the day is yours to ease into the Sicilian way of life, where sea views, historic villages and lively piazzas set the scene for the days ahead. Later, settle in for a leisurely dinner and your first introduction to the island's rich culinary traditions.
Included:
- Car hire collection at Palermo Airport (PMO)
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 2: PALERMO & MONREALE
This morning invites you into the heart of Palermo, where bustling piazzas, ornate churches and centuries of history create a captivating atmosphere. Stroll through the city's most celebrated landmarks, from the iconic Quattro Canti to the richly decorated interiors of La Martorana and Palermo Cathedral. By the afternoon, continue to Monreale, whose magnificent cathedral is illuminated by thousands of golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes. The surrounding hillside setting offers a peaceful contrast to the energy of Palermo below.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna 4* or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 3: CEFALU
A scenic drive brings you to Cefalù, where centuries of history unfold against a backdrop of sparkling coastal views. Stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés and historic buildings, pausing to visit the medieval washhouse and the former royal residence of Osterio Magno. The town's cathedral remains the highlight, its remarkable Byzantine mosaics glowing beneath vaulted interiors. Later, enjoy a relaxed evening by the sea as fishing boats gently sway in the harbour.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna 4* or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 4: SEGESTA & ERICE
Venture west today to discover two of Sicily's most captivating treasures. Surrounded by rugged countryside, the ancient temple of Segesta rises from the landscape with remarkable elegance, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's Greek heritage. The afternoon is dedicated to Erice, a beautifully preserved medieval town perched high above the sea, where narrow streets, historic churches and panoramic viewpoints create an unforgettable atmosphere. On clear days, views extend as far as the Egadi Islands, shimmering on the horizon.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 5: MOUNT ETNA
Leaving western Sicily behind, journey east towards the slopes of Mount Etna, where the landscape gradually transforms into a dramatic tapestry of volcanic rock and ancient lava flows. After settling into your hotel, venture onto Europe's highest active volcano and discover a world shaped by centuries of eruptions. Craters, blackened terrain and sweeping views across the island create a striking contrast to the coastal scenery of previous days. As evening falls, relax amid the peaceful surroundings of Etna's foothills.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 6: ETNA & TAORMINA
Awake beneath the shadow of Mount Etna, spend the morning discovering more of its dramatic volcanic scenery. Vast lava fields, rugged craters and panoramic viewpoints provide a striking reminder of the forces that continue to shape this extraordinary landscape. By the afternoon, the focus shifts to Taormina, where flower-filled terraces, historic piazzas and sweeping sea views create one of Sicily's most enchanting settings. A visit to the Ancient Theatre offers an unforgettable perspective over both the coastline and the volcano.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 7: TAROMINA & SYRACUSE
The morning is yours to enjoy Taormina at leisure. Wander through its charming streets, browse local boutiques or simply pause at a sunlit café while admiring views across the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Later, continue south towards the Syracuse region, where a different side of Sicily awaits. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and unwind ahead of tomorrow's discoveries.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 8: SYRACUSE & ORTIGA
Explore the remarkable Archaeological Park of Neapolis before crossing to Ortigia, where narrow lanes open onto sunlit squares framed by magnificent Baroque architecture. Along the waterfront, gentle sea breezes and views across the Ionian Sea create a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere. The day concludes in the peaceful surroundings of your hotel in the Syracuse or Ragusa region.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 9: NOTO OR VENDICARI NATURE RESERVE
Your final full day in Sicily can be spent exploring the remarkable town of Noto or the wild beauty of the Vendicari coastline. In Noto, magnificent Baroque facades glow beneath the southern Sicilian sun, while elegant churches and aristocratic palaces reveal the city's rich heritage. Those drawn to nature may prefer Vendicari, where secluded beaches, coastal lagoons and ancient ruins create a landscape of rare tranquillity. As evening arrives, savour one last taste of Sicilian hospitality.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA
Savour a relaxed final morning before departing for Catania Airport. The drive offers a final glimpse of Sicily's distinctive scenery, from rolling countryside to distant coastal views. On arrival, return your hire car and prepare for your onward flight, bringing a memorable road trip through one of Italy's most captivating regions to a close.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Car hire return at Catania Airport (CTA)
11-night road trip
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO
Touch down in Palermo and collect your hire car before making your way to your hotel in the Palermo or Cefalù area. The rest of the day is yours to ease into the Sicilian way of life, where sea views, historic villages and lively piazzas set the scene for the days ahead. Later, settle in for a leisurely dinner and your first introduction to the island's rich culinary traditions.
Included:
- Car hire collection at Palermo Airport (PMO)
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 2: PALERMO & MONREALE
This morning invites you into the heart of Palermo, where bustling piazzas, ornate churches and centuries of history create a captivating atmosphere. Stroll through the city's most celebrated landmarks, from the iconic Quattro Canti to the richly decorated interiors of La Martorana and Palermo Cathedral. By the afternoon, continue to Monreale, whose magnificent cathedral is illuminated by thousands of golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes. The surrounding hillside setting offers a peaceful contrast to the energy of Palermo below.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 3: CEFALU
A scenic drive brings you to Cefalù, where centuries of history unfold against a backdrop of sparkling coastal views. Stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés and historic buildings, pausing to visit the medieval washhouse and the former royal residence of Osterio Magno. The town's cathedral remains the highlight, its remarkable Byzantine mosaics glowing beneath vaulted interiors. Later, enjoy a relaxed evening by the sea as fishing boats gently sway in the harbour.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
DAY 4: MOUNT ETNA
Leaving western Sicily behind, journey east towards the slopes of Mount Etna, where the landscape gradually transforms into a dramatic tapestry of volcanic rock and ancient lava flows. After settling into your hotel, venture onto Europe's highest active volcano and discover a world shaped by centuries of eruptions. Craters, blackened terrain and sweeping views across the island create a striking contrast to the coastal scenery of previous days. As evening falls, relax amid the peaceful surroundings of Etna's foothills.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 5: MOUNT ETNA
Leaving western Sicily behind, journey towards the slopes of Mount Etna, where the landscape transforms into a dramatic world of lava fields, volcanic rock and sweeping island views. Settle into your hotel before venturing onto Europe’s highest active volcano, shaped by centuries of eruptions. Craters, blackened terrain and vast panoramas create a powerful contrast to the coastal scenery of previous days. As evening falls, unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Etna’s foothills.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 6: TAOROMINA & BOAT EXCURSION
Leaving western Sicily behind, journey towards the slopes of Mount Etna, where the landscape transforms into a dramatic world of lava fields, volcanic rock and sweeping island views. Settle into your hotel before venturing onto Europe’s highest active volcano, shaped by centuries of eruptions. Craters, blackened terrain and vast panoramas create a powerful contrast to the coastal scenery of previous days. As evening falls, unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Etna’s foothills.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Boat excursion along the Taormina coastline
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 7: CATANIA
Discover Catania, a vibrant city shaped by volcanic stone and Baroque architecture. Explore the historic centre, including Piazza del Duomo and its iconic elephant fountain, before continuing through lively streets filled with markets and cafés. Experience the energy of La Pescheria fish market, one of the most authentic in Sicily. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the city at your own pace.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
DAY 8: SYRACUSE
Travel south to Syracuse and explore Ortigia, the historic island heart of the city and a UNESCO-listed treasure. Wander through elegant Baroque streets, admire the Cathedral built over an ancient Greek temple, and follow the waterfront to the Fountain of Arethusa. The blend of sea, history and architecture creates one of Sicily’s most atmospheric settings.
Included:
Breakfast
Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 9: NOTO & MODICA
Discover Noto, the jewel of Sicilian Baroque, with its golden façades, ornate churches and elegant Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Continue to Modica, a striking hillside town known for its layered architecture and traditional chocolate-making heritage. Together, these towns reveal the refined artistry and cultural richness of southeastern Sicily.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 10: RAGUSA IBLA & SCICLI
Explore the UNESCO-listed Val di Noto, beginning with Ragusa Ibla, a labyrinth of Baroque churches, stairways and panoramic viewpoints. Continue to Scicli, a peaceful town nestled between limestone cliffs, where elegant palaces and quiet streets reflect an authentic Sicilian rhythm of life. Both towns showcase the region’s remarkable architectural heritage.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 11: VENDECERI NATURE RESERVE
Spend the day discovering the unspoilt beauty of the Vendicari Nature Reserve, one of Sicily’s most peaceful coastal landscapes. Wander through lagoons, salt pans and walking trails where flamingos and migratory birds gather, and enjoy stretches of wild beaches with crystal-clear waters. The ancient watchtower and remnants of the old tuna fishery add a quiet sense of history to this protected natural haven. It is a final immersion into Sicily’s slower, more elemental side.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Night at Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
DAY 12: DEPARTURE FROM CATANIA
Savour a relaxed final morning before departing for Catania Airport. The drive offers a final glimpse of Sicily's distinctive scenery, from rolling countryside to distant coastal views. On arrival, return your hire car and prepare for your onward flight, bringing a memorable road trip through one of Italy's most captivating regions to a close.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Car hire return at Catania Airport (CTA)
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 —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected hotels.
Your hotels (or similar):
- Syracuse/Ragusa: Villa Favorita 4*, Agriturismo Badiula or Relais Parco Cavalonga 4*
- Catania/Messina: Hotel Terre di Eolo 4*, Airone Wellness 4*, Sicilia’s Art or Hotel Nettuno 4*
- Cefalù/Palermo: Domina Zagarella Sicily 4*, Torre Normanna or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
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.
Included extras & excursions —
Typical Palermo street food lunch or dinner (excluding drinks)
Enjoy a typical Palermo street food lunch or dinner at the historic Focacceria San Francesco, opposite the beautiful San Francesco Church. Savour authentic Sicilian specialities such as golden arancine filled with ragù, ham or cheese, and the city's famous pane e panelle, accompanied by a soft drink or half a litre of water.
Boat excursion along the Taormina coastline
This scenic boat excursion reveals the spectacular coastline of Taormina from the water. Cruise past dramatic sea caves, hidden bays and the protected waters of Isola Bella, with time to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear Mediterranean. During the journey, enjoy a tasting of traditional almond pastries and prosecco on board.
Optional excursions —
Urban Art in the heart of Palermo
Discover how street art is transforming Palermo's historic centre into an open-air gallery on this guided tour dedicated to urban art. This tour immerses you in a dynamic urban regeneration, where the city's walls become the canvases of international artists, offering a new perspective on local history and culture.
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.
Your destination —
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.
