Grand Tour of Sicily – Taormina, Syracuse & Mount Etna

Itinerary

• Day 1
  Arrival in Sicily - Upon arrival in Catania, we will travel to Agrigento where we stay for two nights. A welcome drink awaits you at the hotel to get to know your fellow travellers better.  
• Day 2
  Valley of the Temples - We start the day with a guided tour in small groups of the Greek ruins in the Valley of the Temples - a wonder of the ancient world. Set in a beautiful landscape of almond trees and coastal views stands the remains of the seven temples, as well as remnants from other buildings, such as tombs and gyms. A sight that can be seen for miles around, these temples stand tall - a testament to the power and importance they once held, for all who witnessed them. The impressively preserved Concordia is compared to the Parthenon in Athens for its similarities in style and is all but intact except for the missing roof - its narrow pillars and golden hue are truly mesmerising. It's impossible not to think of the builders who created this masterpiece under the heat of the sun thousands of years ago. We also visit the onsite museum which showcases artefacts from the temples and local area, including an array of ancient vases.  Next, we visit the medieval city of Agrigento. Full of narrow-stepped streets and quiet piazzas that boast spectacular views of the Mediterranean that stretch over the horizon. At the heart of the city is Via Atenea, which is a great spot for some lunch.  We return to the hotel in the afternoon after a busy morning exploring. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure - you could treat yourself to a drink by the pool soaking up the afternoon sun or have a quiet moment on the terrace before your evening dinner. 
• Day 3
  Cefalù - As we leave Agrigento this morning, we journey through the alpine vistas of Sicily to Cefalù. The medieval centre wraps around the bottom of a large, exposed bedrock called La Rocca, which towers above the terracotta rooftops nestled at its base and atop its peak sits a temple in honour of the goddess Diana. Once we arrive, we have an orientation walk of the city in small groups along with your fellow travellers, before free time to explore at your own pace.  The mesmerising blend of golden and blue hues from Cefalù's sandy beaches and dazzling sea make it impossible not to be infatuated with this charming place. However, the coast may be enchanting but the sun-drenched stone buildings and quaint cobbled streets have their own allure too. Cefalù's biggest gem is its magnificent cathedral, a prime example of Sicilian Roman architecture, complete with intricate mosaics. The labyrinth of charming streets boasts a collection of shops, cafes and bars for you to explore. The Piazza Garibaldi is a perfect place to sit back and watch the world go by, perhaps whilst indulging in some gelato or sipping on a crisp Negroni. We then continue to our hotel to check in. 
• Day 4
  Palermo - As we head westward along Sicily’s exquisite coastline, we'll be treated to sensational views of the sparkling blue sea and the island's rugged interior. Our journey leads us to Palermo, where we take a guided tour in small groups to uncover the city’s rich history and learn fascinating insights into its unique culture. Palermo is home to numerous impressive landmarks, many of which date back to when Sicily was an independent kingdom, before 1861. You’ll be amazed by Italy’s most beautifully adorned churches and charming, centuries-old piazzas. Among the city's treasures, the Norman Palace stands out as the most remarkable. Once the royal residence, and now serving as the seat of the Sicilian government, the palace was, in the Middle Ages, the most lavish royal court in Europe. During our visit, we’ll explore its Carthaginian foundations, and upstairs, is the mesmerising royal chapel, renowned for its astonishing medieval gold mosaics - without a doubt, Palermo’s artistic masterpiece.  You’ll have free time to wander the picturesque streets of Palermo, lined with grand palazzi and terracotta-coloured buildings. Explore the city’s rich heritage through its eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include majestic palaces, churches, and cathedrals.  After a busy afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of Palermo, relax and unwind with a selection of light Sicilian pastries and cakes, served in a historic 5-star hotel, offering you one last taste of the city’s charm.
• Day 5
  Free day in Cefalù - Spend today exploring all that Cefalù has to offer. Maybe soak up the sun on one of its many beaches, enjoying the sea breeze as the town's historic buildings form the backdrop. Take a break from the sun to wander through the charming streets lined with small shops and gelato stalls, as you peruse for a spot of lunch. Or you could choose to stay at the hotel and take advantage of its facilities - relaxing around the pool surrounded by its private gardens. If you’d like some recommendations on how to spend your free time our friendly Tour Manager is on hand to help provide suggestions to make the most out of each destination on your tour.  
• Day 6
  Villa Romana del Casale - We’ll leave Cefalù and travel to Piazza Armerina, a charming town that’s home to one of the most remarkable archaeological sites discovered in recent history. The Villa Romana del Casale, dating back to the 4th and 5th centuries AD, is one of the most impeccably preserved Roman villas still standing today. It’s believed to have belonged to one of the joint Emperors, which accounts for its grand scale and intricate decorations. Buried for centuries, the villa is now a treasure trove of ancient art and architecture.   In small groups of your fellow travellers, we embark on a guided tour led by an expert, where we’ll admire the faded yet stunning frescoes on the walls and the detailed mosaics that depict scenes of hunting and wildlife. This luxurious villa, with its baths and opulent design, offers a vivid glimpse into the sophisticated lifestyle of the Roman elite.  After exploring, we’ll head to a rustic agriturismo nestled in the Sicilian countryside. This family-run farm stay provides a warm and inviting atmosphere where we’ll enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch, prepared with fresh, local ingredients like vegetables, homemade pasta, and freshly pressed olive oil and wine. Dining at an agriturismo is a true taste of Sicily’s rich culinary heritage, far removed from the high-end restaurants of the city. Afterwards, we’ll make our way towards Taormina on Sicily’s eastern coast, where we’ll spend the next five nights. 
• Day 7
  Taormina   - Today, we’ll head to Taormina, giving you time to explore at your own pace. This enchanting, upscale town is one of Italy’s most exclusive gems, offering a perfect blend of beauty and history. Perched on a cliff, it offers sweeping views of both the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna. Known for its lush gardens and captivating atmosphere, Taormina’s highlight is its ancient Greek theatre, still in use today for a variety of performances ranging from plays to concerts. No visit to Italy is complete without enjoying an aperitivo, a cherished tradition. We’ll indulge in a selection of local treats while taking in the spectacular views over Taormina and its striking coastline.  
• Day 8
  Syracuse - Today, we'll head to Syracuse, one of Sicily's most captivating destinations. Revered by Cicero as "the greatest and most beautiful of all Grecian cities", Syracuse was once a rival to Athens and Carthage in both size and influence.   You’ll have the chance to wander through Ortigia, the alluring old town at the city’s eastern tip, which is an island connected to the mainland by three bridges. The area is a maze of narrow lanes surrounded by a blend of Greek, Roman, and Baroque architecture, perfect for exploring at your own pace. You might stumble upon piazzas like Piazza Archimedes, named after the city’s renowned mathematician, and admire the elegant Fountain of Diana. Another highlight is Syracuse’s magnificent cathedral, which incorporates an ancient temple into its design, along with the nearby Bosco Palace. The old harbour area offers a picturesque scene, with traditional fishing boats bringing in their daily catch.  Prepare for a truly unique experience as we take a boat tour around Ortigia. You’ll be treated to sensational views of the golden limestone cliffs and explore some remarkable caves. We’ll also cruise along the seafront for an up-close view of the historic architecture of Ortigia. Enjoy all this beautiful scenery from the comfort of our boat. 
• Day 9
  Free day - Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You could stay close to the hotel and unwind by the pool (seasonal, depending on the weather), take a stroll around the town, or enjoy the beauty of the local coastline and unwind at the beach. If you prefer, head back to Taormina, easily accessible by public transport or taxi. Stroll along the main street, where you'll find high-end boutiques and jewellers, or wander through narrow side streets that open up to charming piazzas. These quiet squares are home to family-owned restaurants, perfect for a relaxing lunch and some people-watching. Alternatively, take a cable car down to the Mazzarò beach area to discover lovely beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic rock formations that make the coastline so picturesque. Our friendly Tour Manager can help provide suggestions on how to spend your free time, so you get the most out of your tour.   Please note - if you are staying at the Sant Alphio Garden Hotel, Taormina is easily accessible by public transport or taxi. 
• Day 10
  Mount Etna - Rising above eastern Sicily, Etna stands as Europe's tallest active volcano. Today, we'll journey as close as possible to its snow-covered peak. As we climb the winding roads, the landscape grows increasingly dramatic, with jagged black rocks and sparse vegetation creating an almost otherworldly scene. Near the cable car station, you'll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the entire region. Depending on regulations, you'll have the option to independently continue your ascent by cable car and jeep to explore even more of the mountain’s heights. Our day concludes with a visit to a local vineyard on Etna’s lush slopes. Surrounded by incredible vistas of the vineyards, you'll gain insight into the unique environment that produces the region’s distinctive organic wines. Enjoy a delectable lunch featuring local specialities, perfectly paired with bold reds and fragrant whites from the estate’s cellar.