Treasures of Sicily

Day 1  Viagrande  
Welcome to Viagrande, a traditional Catanian village with a privileged view of Mount Etna. Depending on the arrival time of the group, we have a welcome briefing at the hotel either this evening or tomorrow morning.  

Day 2  Viagrande  
After breakfast we enjoy a spectacular guided walk on Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. We hike past several old lava flows to be rewarded with a dramatic panorama of the volcanic landscape and old craters. In the afternoon, we enjoy a wine-and-cheese tasting in one of the most-celebrated cellars in the area.  

Day 3  Viagrande to Noto  
This morning we drive to Syracuse. Here we visit the superb Neapolis Archeological Park. In the afternoon we drive to our next destination, the Unesco World Heritage site of Noto, a beautiful town built in the Sicilian baroque style using honey-coloured stone.  

Day 4  Noto to Agrigento  
After breakfast we drive to the hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla, a maze of winding streets with remarkable baroque churches, and continue on to Agrigento. Here we enjoy a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples: The Temple of Juno; the Temple of Concorde; the Temple of Hercules; and the Temple of Castor and Pollux.

Day 5  Agrigento to Erice  
Visit ruins of Selinunte, overlooking the Mediterranean. Then drive to the hilltop village of Erice. Once in Erice, we have time for a stroll through its narrow streets and will try the best almond biscuits on the island. We stay overnight in the town of Buseto Palizzolo.  

Day 6  Erice to Palermo  
This morning head to the coast to explore the idyllic Mediterranean landscape on foot. Stretching along the coast the Zingaro Nature Reserve has walking trails with views out to the cliffs and the glistening sea, hidden coves and pristine beaches. In the afternoon we make our way to Palermo where we can enjoy time at leisure to discover the vibrant historic centre and lively streets filled with restaurants and bars.  

Day 7  Palermo  
After a short transfer to Monreale, we visit its extraordinary cathedral, considered the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world. We then head to Palermo where our local guide will show us the most important sites in this beautiful city. In the afternoon, we have free time in Palermo to enjoy this eclectic city at our own pace.  

Day 8  Palermo to Taormina  
Drive to the fishing village of Cefalu to visit its Norman cathedral. Then on to charming Taormina, where there will be free time to explore.

Day 9 Taormina  
Enjoy your final breakfast of this Sicilian adventure, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the many wonders of this Italian island. Once you’re full, it’s time to start your return journey home.