Treasures of Sicily

9 Days Starting in Viagrande and ending in Taormina

Visiting: Italy, Sicily

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

ADZ

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 18

Physical rating:

Easy & Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3000

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover Sicily, the scenic Italian island forged over centuries by Phoenician, Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman and Spanish rulers. On this comprehensive adventure, we explore the very best bits, starting on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, before continuing to the towns of Syracuse, Agrigento, and Selinunte – all World Heritage sites. A day in Zingaro National Reserve offers magnificent views over the coast, while there’s also plenty of opportunities to discover the history and heritage of the biggest island in the Mediterranean. 

Highlights

  • Explore baroque heritage in Noto and Ragusa Ibla

  • Visit archeological sites in Siracusa, Agrigento and Selinunte

  • Cover the island's highlights and best heritage sites in nine days

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start In Viagrande

Welcome to Viagrande, a traditional Catanian village with a privileged view of Mount Etna. From its lofty position above the sea, it offers views of Mount Etna. The current old town centre was founded in 1408 but the first settlement here was founded under Greek rule. The ancient Roman road that led to Messina gives the name to the village (Viagrande means big road).



Depending on the arrival time of the group, we have a welcome briefing at the hotel either this evening or tomorrow morning; a great chance to meet your tour leader and the rest of the group.



Accommodation: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar)

Day 2 : Excursion On Mount Etna; Afternoon Wine Tasting

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 (one to two hours’ walking, 3.1mi/5km). You are strongly advised to take a waterproof/windproof jacket, a warm top and to wear long trousers (pants). In the afternoon, we enjoy a wine-and-cheese tasting in one of the most-celebrated cellars in the area.



Accommodation: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar)

Day 3 : Drive To Syracuse To Visit Its Archeological Site; On To The Unesco-Badged Baroque Town Of Noto

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we drive to Syracuse (approximately 1hr 15min drive), the most powerful city-state in the ancient Greek world and briefly the capital of the Byzantine empire. Here we visit the superb Neapolis Archeological Park, home to a spectacular Greek theatre and well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, accompanied by a local guide. In the afternoon we drive to our next destination, the Unesco World Heritage site of Noto (approximately 45 mins), a beautiful town built in the Sicilian baroque style using honey-coloured stone.



Accommodation: Hotel Flora (or similar)

Day 4 : Visit The Hilltop Town Of Ragusa Ibla; Transfer To Agrigento's Valley Of The Temples

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we drive to the hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla (approximately 90 minutes), a maze of winding streets with remarkable baroque churches, and continue on to Agrigento (2hr 30min). Here we enjoy a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples: the Temple of Juno; the Temple of Concorde, one of the most well-preserved doric temples in the ancient Greek world; the Temple of Hercules; and the Temple of Castor and Pollux.



Accommodation: Hotel Della Valle (or similar)

Day 5 : Visit Ruins Of Selinunte, Overlooking The Mediterranean; Drive To The Hilltop Village Of Erice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our day starts with a transfer to Selinunte (90 minutes) to explore one of the most important archeological sites in the Mediterranean, set high overlooking the sea. We then move on to the mountaintop village of Erice (90 minutes), and stop en route for a view of the Mozia salt flats, which are dotted with characteristic windmills (time permitting). 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 or Trapani.



Accommodation: Baglio Fontana or B&B Trapani Crystal (or similar)

Day 6 : Walk In The Zingaro Nature Reserve; Afternoon Transfer To Palermo

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning head to the coast to explore the idyllic Mediterranean landscape on foot. Stretching along the coast for 4.3mi (7km) between the lovely village of Scopello in the east to San Vito Lo Capo in the west, the Zingaro Nature Reserve has walking trails with views out to the cliffs and the glistening sea, hidden coves and pristine beaches. We take a leisurely walk for up to three hours (including stops) along beautiful coastal trails, with the opportunity of a quick swim before returning to the bus. In the afternoon we make our way to Palermo (approximately 1hr 30min) where we can enjoy time at leisure to discover the vibrant historic centre and lively streets filled with restaurants and bars.



Accommodation: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (or similar)

Day 7 : Morning Visit To Monreale Cathedral; Guided Tour Of Palermo And Free Time

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a short transfer to Monreale (approximately one hour), we visit its extraordinary cathedral, considered the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world. We then head to Palermo (approximately one hour) where our local guide will show us the most important sites in this beautiful city, including Quattro Canti, Pretoria Square, the cathedral and Marina Square. In the afternoon, we have free time in Palermo to enjoy this eclectic city at our own pace.



Accommodation: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (or similar)

Day 8 : Drive To The Fishing Village Of Cefalu To Visit Its Norman Cathedral; On To Charming Taormina; Free Time To Explore

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we drive to the fishing village of Cefalu (approximately 1hr 15min), where we visit the impressive cathedral, home to elaborate Byzantine mosaics, and the lovely historic centre with its winding medieval streets. Our tour ends in one of the most renowned treasures of Sicily: the charming town of Taormina (approximately 2hr 40min drive). We have time to visit its Greek theatre and enjoy the spectacular views of Mount Etna and the sea.



Accommodation: Hotel Villa Esperia (or similar)

Day 9 : End In Taormina

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

What's Included

  • All breakfasts and one wine tasting

  • All accommodation

  • Tour leader throughout

  • Special guided tours in main Unesco sites and cities

  • Group arrival and departure transfers available

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Single accommodation

  • Visa or vaccinations

  • Local city taxes approximately €10-€15

Food

All breakfasts and a wine tasting on Mount Etna included.



Sicilian cuisine is a melting pot of all the cultures that have occupied the island, from the Arabs to the Normans. The island itself is incredibly fertile, enjoying a perfect climate for the cultivation of fresh produce such as olives, oranges, lemons, tomatoes, pistachios, almonds, grapes and more — not to mention all of the seafood, tuna and swordfish caught just off the coast. The result? A cuisine that’s fresh, varied and delicious. Sicilian wines, such as Marsala and Moscato, are superb and known to be strong and syrupy.

Accommodation

On this cultural trip in Sicily, we use a varied selection of three- and four-star hotels. The places we stay are often near historic centres, allowing us to easily explore the towns in the evenings or during our free time.



Below are the accommodations we typically use:



Viagrande: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (nights 1-2)







With an outdoor pool, restaurant serving Mediterranean dishes made with local ingredients, and a cocktail bar-lounge, Villa Itria is an excellent spot to ease ourselves into the trip. There’s also a wellness centre for an additional cost.



Noto: Hotel Flora (night 3)







Our time in Noto is spent at Hotel Flora, which is ideally located in the historic centre of town. Noto Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo are just a 10-minute walk away, while the hotel terrace offers views and a spot for a sundowner.



Agrigento: Hotel Della Valle (night 4)







Now well into the trip, Hotel Della Valle is a great place to relax as a group. When it’s hot, head to the swimming pool area, where you’ll find loungers, parasols and tables, plus a Mediterranean garden with palms and pines. Alternatively, you may prefer to find a shady spot for a drink.



Buseto Palizzolo or Trapani: Baglio Fontana or B&B Trapani Crystal (night 5)







In Buseto Palizzolo, we stay at either at Baglio Fontana (above) or in Trapani at B&B Trapani Crystal, depending on availability. The former is a historic agriturismo (converted farmhouse) with a working farm producing wines and olive oil, plus there's an outdoor pool. The latter is a contemporary retreat with an excellent location, just a short walk from the ancient wonders of the historic centre of Trapani.



Palermo: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (nights 6-7)







In Palermo, the group stays at either Hotel Posta (above) or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti. Hotel Posta has been run by the same family since 1921 and has an excellent location in the historic centre, just a five-minute walk from Teatro Massimo, plus there's a sun terrace and bar. Our alternative stay, Quattro Canti, is within walking distance of the Quattro Canti piazza, where the four ancient quarters of the city meet, plus there’s a rooftop terrace with views over Palermo.



Taormina: Hotel Villa Esperia (night 8)







Our final night is spent at Villa Esperia. Get the group together by the outdoor pool to toast the adventure and admire the sea views. Alternatively, a cable car to Taormina town centre is just 330ft (100m) from the front door. The hotel also has one restaurant: Bacio di Dama, which serves Sicilian dishes.



Worth knowing



Some hotels require you to wear a swimming cap in the pool.

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  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

treasures of sicily

This was my first group holiday and it was a wonderful experience. It was organised so well and we saw Sicily in all its beauty. the group got on very well together which as a solo traveller was good for me. It was a wonderful introduction to this island and I would love to return and take my time in various parts of it. The food and wine were excellent and cheaper than any of us expected.

Treasures of Sicily

Brilliant introduction to glorious Sicily. So much to see, so little time, BUT a fantastic introduction covering everything from nature to culture, to ancient temples, wonderful scenery and fabulous food.

The magic of Sicily

A great trip and although quite a fast pace there was plenty of time to enjoy the towns, ruins and magnificent scenery. The food and wine was of course splendid wherever we went our wonderful guide Mileena was there with her extremely helpful maps of every town and ruin visited. There is something in this trip for everyone. If you can't walk far there is always a cafe with a lovely outlook to sit at, on the other hand if you want to walk and climb steps for wonderful views, then you can do that too

Treasures of Sicily

An excellent introduction to the island of Sicily, taking in history, culture, geography/geology and cuisine! It gave me a good idea of what I might want to see again on a return visit.

Great Trip

This was an excellent well planned tour. I found the pace busy but not overly strenuos or hectic. You have plenty of variety, Mt Etna seaside towns and harbours, quaint old towns as well as the ancient sites. What made this trip so good was the guide, Vanessa,, who often went the extra mile to help the group, and the group itself, 15 very different people who got on well. We stayed on for 4 nights after the end of the tour for rest and relaxation near Taormina and this was certainly the right decision. Taormina itself is very crowded and touristy with the side streets and the public gardens offering a welcome relief. Palermo was the best big city with plenty of character.

Treasures of Sicily

A comprehensive tour around the island taking in all the main sites. There is a lot to see.

TREASURES OF SICILY

An eclectic mix of Spanish, Norman, Arab, Greek and Roman culture make up this sunshine island.  Italy at its best!

TREASURES OF SICILY

If I'm honest I don't think I really Knew very much about Sicily before I went! But found it to be an amazingly beautiful island with some wonderful sights. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip with a great group of travellers.

TREASURES OF SICILY

Although the itinerary was a bit fraught (so much to see, so little time!) we were expertly guided by Salvo around the island & introduced to many archaeological & gastronomic wonders.  The group was a good mix & most of the accommodations comfortable (& in the case of San Vito Lo Capo nothing short of marvellous).

A whirl wind tour of Sicily

This trip was wonderful but not quite sure where the 'leisurely' rating comes from. It is very full on and really offers a tantalising taste of what Sicily has to offer. Days are jam packed and you often find yourself wishing you could spend more time in certain places. I had no idea it was such a beautiful island and would definitely like to return to do it more slowly.

Read all 65 reviews

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    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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