DURATION:5, 7 or 9 nights

BEST FOR: Cultural immersion

PACE: Relaxed

Explore Sicily

Across these immersive Sicilian itineraries, you can either enjoy a shorter 5-night stay based in Palermo with a cultural extension to Catania, or a 7-night journey weaving through Cefalù, Erice, Agrigento, Taormina and Syracuse, showcasing the island’s rich blend of coastline, heritage and Baroque beauty. The most complete 9-night experience elevates the route further, linking Palermo to the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna, the elegance of Taormina and the timeless charm of Noto and the Val di Noto, before departing from Syracuse.

5-night itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Palermo

Day 2: Palermo

Day 3: Palermo → Monreale → Cefalù

Day 4: Agrigento → Catania 

Day 5: Catania → Taormina

Day 6: Departure from Catania

7-night itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO

On arrival at Palermo airport (PMO), your car will be waiting for you. Check in at your hotel before letting yourself be swept away by the magic of the Sicilian capital.

Included:

• Fiat Panda, V.UP, Fiat 500 or similar car hire included (with a second driver included)
• 1 x welcome dinner (excluding drinks) per person for stays in May and June
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Palermo Cathedral and admire its mix of architectural styles
• Explore the Palazzo dei Normanni with its stunning Cappella Palatina
• Eat at Antica Focacceria San Francesco for classic Sicilian street food

DAY 2: PALERMO

Today discover Palermo in all its fascinating splendour. 

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Cappella Palatina, the Palazzo dei Normanni and Palermo Cathedral to explore the Arab-Norman heritage
• Experience the Capuchin Catacombs, a haunting glimpse into Palermo’s past
• Eat arancini in Antica Focacceria San Francesco, a Sicilian street food classic

DAY 3: PALERMO → MONREALE → CEFALÙ

Departure for Monreale, a few kilometres from Palermo. Then drive to Cefalù, one of the most beautiful villages in the Mediterranean.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Norman Cathedral in Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics
• Explore Cefalù’s golden beach and wander its medieval streets, dominated by the striking Rocca di Cefalù
• Eat fresh seafood in Cefalù’s old town, with grilled fish and pasta served overlooking the harbour

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO

On arrival at Palermo airport (PMO), your car will be waiting for you. Check in at your hotel before letting yourself be swept away by the magic of the Sicilian capital.

Included:

• Fiat Panda, V.UP, Fiat 500 or similar car hire included (with a second driver included)
• 1 x welcome dinner (excluding drinks) per person for stays in May and June
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Palermo Cathedral and admire its mix of architectural styles
• Explore the Palazzo dei Normanni with its stunning Cappella Palatina
• Eat at Antica Focacceria San Francesco for classic Sicilian street food

DAY 2: PALERMO

Today discover Palermo in all its fascinating splendour. 

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Cappella Palatina, the Palazzo dei Normanni and Palermo Cathedral to explore the Arab-Norman heritage
• Experience the Capuchin Catacombs, a haunting glimpse into Palermo’s past
• Eat arancini in Antica Focacceria San Francesco, a Sicilian street food classic

DAY 3: PALERMO → MONREALE → CEFALÙ

Departure for Monreale, a few kilometres from Palermo. Then drive to Cefalù, one of the most beautiful villages in the Mediterranean.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Norman Cathedral in Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics
• Explore Cefalù’s golden beach and wander its medieval streets, dominated by the striking Rocca di Cefalù
• Eat fresh seafood in Cefalù’s old town, with grilled fish and pasta served overlooking the harbour

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PALERMO

On arrival at Palermo airport (PMO), your car will be waiting for you. Check in at your hotel before letting yourself be swept away by the magic of the Sicilian capital.

Included:

• Fiat Panda, V.UP, Fiat 500 or similar car hire included (with a second driver included)
• 1 x welcome dinner (excluding drinks) per person for stays in May and June
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Palermo Cathedral and admire its mix of architectural styles
• Explore the Palazzo dei Normanni with its stunning Cappella Palatina
• Eat at Antica Focacceria San Francesco for classic Sicilian street food

DAY 2: PALERMO

Today discover Palermo in all its fascinating splendour. 

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Cappella Palatina, the Palazzo dei Normanni and Palermo Cathedral to explore the Arab-Norman heritage
• Experience the Capuchin Catacombs, a haunting glimpse into Palermo’s past
• Eat arancini in Antica Focacceria San Francesco, a Sicilian street food classic

DAY 3: PALERMO → MONREALE → CEFALÙ

Departure for Monreale, a few kilometres from Palermo. Then drive to Cefalù, one of the most beautiful villages in the Mediterranean.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia or Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia or Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*

Suggestions:

• Visit the Norman Cathedral in Monreale Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics
• Explore Cefalù’s golden beach and wander its medieval streets, dominated by the striking Rocca di Cefalù
• Eat fresh seafood in Cefalù’s old town, with grilled fish and pasta served overlooking the harbour

At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected 4* hotels (or similar).

• Cefalù or Palermo area: Domina Zagarella Sicily 4* in Casteldaccia, Torre Normanna 4* in Altavilla Milicia, Hotel Casena dei Colli 4*
• Catania or Taormina region: Airone Wellness 4* in Zafferana Etnea, Agriturismo Badiula 4* in Carlentini, Hotel Orizzonte 4* in Acireale, Sicilia's Art 4* in Acitrezza 

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

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. 

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.

Nestled on the sun-drenched northern coast of Sicily, Palermo is a vibrant capital where layers of history, culture, and Mediterranean life intertwine effortlessly. As the gateway to Sicily’s dazzling coastline and rich heritage, the city embodies the island’s unique blend of Arab-Norman, Baroque, and Italian influences, offering an atmospheric introduction to one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating destinations.

Must-sees / Must-do:

• Palermo Cathedral: A striking architectural tapestry reflecting centuries of Arab-Norman, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
• Palazzo dei Normanni & Cappella Palatina: A royal palace housing one of the most exquisite Byzantine mosaics in Europe.
• Quattro Canti: The elegant Baroque heart of the old town, marking the intersection of Palermo’s historic quarters.
• Teatro Massimo: Italy’s largest opera house, famed for its grandeur and perfect acoustics.
• Mercato di Ballarò: A bustling street market bursting with Sicilian produce, street food, and local colour.

Culinary culture:

Palermo is a paradise for food lovers, where Sicilian cuisine shines through bold, sun-kissed flavours. Expect iconic street food such as arancini, panelle, and sfincione, alongside fresh seafood, pasta alla Norma, and rich cannoli filled with sweet ricotta. Dining here is informal and lively, often enjoyed in vibrant markets or family-run trattorie that reflect the city’s warm hospitality.

Dive deeper:

Beyond its monuments, Palermo reveals a captivating contrast of grandeur and everyday life. Ornate palaces and ancient churches stand beside lively piazzas and chaotic markets, creating a city full of texture and energy. Just beyond the urban core, the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea offers the perfect escape, with golden beaches and turquoise waters ideal for a leisurely day in the Sicilian sun.

Good to know:

Palermo is best explored on foot to absorb its layered historic centre fully. It serves as an ideal base for discovering western Sicily, including coastal towns and nearby beaches. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, while summer brings vibrant energy and long, sun-filled days perfect for seaside relaxation.

Taormina is famed for its dazzling coastline, stunningly diverse history, and delectable cuisine. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a destination that continually impresses and evolves, welcoming a steady stream 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.

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).