Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2026

Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2026

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Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2026

13 Days Starting in Rome and ending in Palermo

Visiting: Rome, Pompeii, Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Positano, Catania, Taormina, Syracuse, Noto, Valley of the Temples, Cefalu, Palermo

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

BBIEMA26

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

This one swings you from Rome to Naples, the home of pizza and gateway to Pompeii, before gliding along the dreamy Amalfi Coast. After falling for Capri and postcard pretty Positano, it's time to head to Sicily for a week of dreamy beaches, incredible food and endless ancient history. This Italian adventure has a little something for everyone.

Highlights

  • View one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance on the Amalfi Coast.

  • Chill on the beaches of Capri and explore its famous boutiques.

  • Ramble through the wisteria-lined streets of Positano and take an iconic selfie with the village backdrop.

  • Stroll around the ancient Sicilian port of Catania at the foot of Mount Etna.

  • Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO-listed site with treasured Greek art and architecture.

  • Admire the Greek and Roman ruins and sun-drenched beaches of Taormina.

  • Float around the opulent Sicilian city of Noto, taking in the Baroque architecture and panoramic views.

  • Discover the rich Roman and Greek history of Syracuse, with its ancient amphitheatres and architecture.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel Genova (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Rome! Once known as the 'capital of the world' this richly historic, passionate and elegant city will steal our hearts as soon as we arrive. We'll meet and greet our Contiki crew at 4pm and enjoy an included dinner this evening.

Day 2: Rome To Naples

Location: Rome, Pompeii, Naples

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vergilius Billia (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we're headed to another richly historical and cultural city, known for its naturally beautiful sights and excellent cuisine. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii you will have the option to partake in a guided walking tour of the fascinating Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius and then perfectly preserved in volcanic ash. Welcome to Naples, the rough and ready but oh so charming city which encapsulates everything we love about Italy. The home of pizza, a hub of culture, and a bundle of passionate Italian energy. Today we have the option to take a tour, learning about the city, its history and its food culture.

Day 3: Naples To Amalfi Coast Via Capri

Location: Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We're headed to the coast today to check out some of the most glamorous seascapes in Europe. Next up is Capri, with its gorgeous cragged coastline and opulent cafes. Its easy to see why this is such a playground for the rich and famous. An optional Capri cruise will let us check out plenty of swim stops to beat the heat. We'll settle on the Amalfi Coast after a day of postcard pretty sun bleached buildings and sparkling sea.

Day 4: Amalfi Coast (Including Positano)

Location: Amalfi Coast, Positano, Amalfi Coast

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've got a free day on the Amalfi coast! Lucky us. There are plenty of optionals today to keep us entertained, including a visit to a lemon farm, run by a local family whose ancestors introduced the crop and have been care takers of an age old tradition ever since. Here we learn how these huge, sunshine coloured fruits are harvested and turned into limoncello. We'll visit one of Amalfi's spectacular jewels today. Dramatic cliffs and idyllic buildings await us in picturesque Positano. You've got the entire evening for yourself. Roam the streets, taste some wine, live the Italian life we've all dreamed of.

Day 5: Amalfi Coast To Rome

Location: Amalfi Coast, Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We're headed back to Rome today. Time for the Colosseum? Back in Rome, we better put on your centurion helmets because we're going on a guided tour around all the Roman ruins, and even the mighty Colosseum. Afterwards, you'll have the chance to head out to a local restaurant and make (and eat) your very own pasta.

Day 6: Rome To Catania

Location: Rome, Catania

Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Del Bosco (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we're hopping on a speedy flight to the incomparable isle of Sicily. This colourful cacophony of baroque piazzas and ancient ruins is the perfect place to get acquainted with Sicily. We'll have a chance to check out Catania's UNESCO listed historic core before an included dinner in a local restaurant. Can you taste the difference in Sicilian cuisine? It has to be up there...

Day 7: Catania To Taormina

Location: Catania, Taormina

Accommodation Name: Main Palace Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've got more spectacular Sicilian towns to explore today, as we head from Catania to Taormina. Uniquely perched on the side of a mountain, this elegant resort town is the perfect place to live the good life in Italy. We'll waste no time admiring the gorgeous panoramas, as we take the cable car that connects the town's historic centre with its awesome beaches. After sunning ourselves for a bit, why not opt for a cooking class with some local masterchefs, learning how to whip up local delicacies like Arancini & Cannoli? It's the perfect way to impress everyone when you get back home.

Day 8: Taormina

Location: Taormina

Accommodation Name: Main Palace Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we've got an unmissable optional for you. Sicily’s stupendous stratovolcano Mt Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe. And what better way to experience this majestic monster than on an adrenaline filled ride, as you pass vineyards and orchards spread across the fertile slopes? You won’t find views quite like this anywhere in Europe. Whether or not you opt for the tour, you'll have a free afternoon to explore Taormina - lazing on the beach, checking out the Roman theatre or sitting and drinking a spritz as life lazily moves by. It's a hard life.

Day 9: Taormina To Syracuse Via Noto

Location: Taormina, Syracuse, Noto, Syracuse

Accommodation Name: Hotel Panorama (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

See ya, Taormina – it's time to visit some historical hotspots. Next stop, Syracuse. We’ll have some free time to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Syracuse. Famed for its rich Roman and Greek history, with ancient amphitheatres and architecture everywhere you look, this place was even mentioned in the Bible (how's that for history creds?). Our next outing is to Noto, home to some of Sicily’s most impressive historic architecture. We’ll check out the Corso Vittoria Emanuele and other legendary landmarks, and then it’s off to an organic farm for a Tastes of Sicily experience – the freshest Sicilian ingredients, brought to us direct from farm to table. Just what the doctor ordered! And after a long day, it’s time to hit the hay. ’Til tomorrow, friends.

Day 10: Syracuse To Cefalù Via Valley Of The Temples

Location: Syracuse, Valley of the Temples, Cefalu

Accommodation Name: Hotel La Giara (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Heading from Syracuse we'll arrive in the Valley of the Temples, the perfect base to explore another ancient wonder... We won't be leaving Italy without a tour of the Valley of the Temples. This mystical valley is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological heritage. We'll discover ancient temples, sanctuaries and a necropolis. It’s a spectacular testament to Sicily’s ancient history (and natural beauty). Arriving in Cefalù we'll enjoy another included dinner of Sicilian delicacies. What a day - and we're not done yet.

Day 11: Cefalù

Location: Cefalu

Accommodation Name: Hotel La Giara (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cefalu is a real gem, home to Sicily's best beaches and most impressive Arabic architecture. This truly is the island that keeps on giving. Today's all about coastal vibes, soaking up that sun, sea and sand - with plenty of water sports to get involved with. If you're feeling a little more zen, why not opt for the coastal cruise and soak up some scenery instead? Later on we'll stroll the winding cobbled streets and watch fishermen taking stock of the day's bounties, before exploring the town's foodie and nightlife scene. Ah, Sicily - sigh.

Day 12: Cefalù To Palermo

Location: Cefalu, Palermo

Accommodation Name: Hotel Federico II Central Palace (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's time to end on a high, as we make our way towards Sicily's sizzling capital. Palermo is vivacious, colourful and boasts a thriving culinary scene, but it’s also been plagued by organised crime for decades. Today on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® experience, you can join a walking tour through the historic centre, learning about the history of the Mafia in Palermo and how the civil antiMafia movement was formed. We'll round things off with a farewell dinner at Al Fresco, AKA the 'bistro of second chances'.

Day 13: End Palermo

Location: Palermo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Time to head home after one final breakfast together. Hug it out, swap social details - and don't be sad, we'll see each other on the road again soon.

What's Included

  • Meals

    4 dinners and 12 breakfasts are included.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Hotel Genova, Hotel Vergilius Billia, Grand Hotel Salerno, Hotel Archimede, Hotel Villa Del Bosco, Main Palace Hotel, Hotel Panorama, Hotel La Giara, and Hotel Federico II Central Palace or similar.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours are available in various locations including Pompeii, Rome, and the Valley of the Temples.

  • Internal Flight

    A flight from Rome to Catania is included.

  • Transportation

    Transportation between cities and to various attractions is included.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a guided walking tour of Pompeii, a Capri cruise, a visit to a lemon farm, a cooking class in Taormina, and a tour of Mt Etna are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Entry Fees

    Entry fees to museums and other attractions are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel through Italy and Sicily with a mix of coach transfers and a flight from Rome to Catania, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey between destinations.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at a variety of hotels including Hotel Genova in Rome, Hotel Vergilius Billia in Naples, Grand Hotel Salerno on the Amalfi Coast, Hotel Villa Del Bosco in Catania, Main Palace Hotel in Taormina, Hotel Panorama in Syracuse, Hotel La Giara in Cefalù, and Hotel Federico II Central Palace in Palermo.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 12 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

  • Rome: Can arrangements be made for travellers with accessibility needs? If you require arrangements to be made for your accessibility needs, please inform your Trip Manager as soon as possible. We try our best to contact all accommodations and secure ground floor rooms for easy wheelchair access.Please remember that Italy can be physically challenging to get around. Coaches can’t access historical centers, and there will be lots of walking (on roads that are often uneven and cobbled). Travellers with accessibility needs will find this trip challenging.
  • Madrid: Do the included meals have a set menu? Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
  • Rome: When would be the best time to book tickets for museums and other attractions? This would depend on the museums & attractions you’re planning to visit. If you’d like to know the exact timings, please contact our 24x7 Helpline to access your day-to-day itineraries to check when you’ll have free time in each city.
  • Madrid: I need to refrigerate my medication. Can I do that on the coach? Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.

Included Experience

  • Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
  • Capri: Chill on the beaches of this Mediterranean jewel. Explore the famous boutiques then stop off for a Spritz in the sun.
  • Amalfi Coast: Live your best life like a local (on a ferry!) as you glide through azure seas, past cliffs filled with rainbow-coloured buildings.
  • Positano: Ramble through the wisteria-lined streets and past sun-bleached houses as you live La Dolce Vita. Don’t forget an iconic selfie with the village backdrop.
  • Catania: Stroll around the ancient Sicilian port at the foot of Mount Etna. See the Piazza Stesicoro and the Baroque and Renaissance buildings of Via dei Crociferi.
  • Catania: Time to take to the sky. Catania, here we come!
  • Taormina: Greek and Roman ruins. Sun-drenched beaches. Epic Italian food. There’s so much to do in this seaside town, you’ll never want to leave.
  • Noto: Float around this opulent Sicilian city, taking in the Baroque architecture and panoramic views as you go.
  • Agrigento: Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO-listed site featuring some of the world's most treasured Greek art and architecture.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes a mix of coach transfers and a flight from Rome to Catania, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey between destinations.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Hotel Genova in Rome, Hotel Vergilius Billia in Naples, Grand Hotel Salerno on the Amalfi Coast, Hotel Villa Del Bosco in Catania, Main Palace Hotel in Taormina, Hotel Panorama in Syracuse, Hotel La Giara in Cefalù, and Hotel Federico II Central Palace in Palermo.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 4 dinners and 12 breakfasts.

  • Are guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, guided tours are available in various locations including Pompeii, Rome, and the Valley of the Temples.

  • What optional activities are available during the tour?

    Optional activities include a guided walking tour of Pompeii, a Capri cruise, a visit to a lemon farm, a cooking class in Taormina, and a tour of Mt Etna.

  • What personal expenses are not included in the tour?

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Are entry fees to museums and other attractions included?

    No, entry fees to museums and other attractions are not included.

  • Are gratuities included in the tour package?

    No, gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • What is the starting and ending location of the tour?

    The tour starts in Rome, Italy and ends in Palermo, Italy.

  • What time is the pick-up in Rome on the first day?

    The pick-up time in Rome on the first day is at 4pm.

  • What kind of experiences can I expect in Sicily?

    In Sicily, you can expect to explore the ancient Sicilian port of Catania, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Greek and Roman ruins and beaches of Taormina, the Baroque architecture of Noto, and the rich Roman and Greek history of Syracuse. Additionally, you can enjoy a Tastes of Sicily experience at an organic farm and a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience in Palermo.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 60 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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