Sicily Art, Food & Wine Discovery Tour: Catania to Taormina

Upon arrival at Catania Airport, transfer to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure discovering the city on your own.Overnight in Catania.

After breakfast, meet your local tour leader who will guide you throughout the day. Depart for Palermo and along the way, make a stop in the charming town of Tindari, where you can take a stroll with your tour leader to explore its historic centre. Continuing the journey, we will visit the picturesque medieval village of Cefalu, known for its narrow streets, rich history, and stunning architecture. Here, you will have time to explore the heart of the town and soak in its unique atmosphere. Arrive in Palermo and enjoy dinner at the hotel.Overnight in Palermo.

After breakfast, we will depart for the charming town of Erice, for a guided sightseeing tour through its narrow, cobblestone streets. Perched high on a hilltop, Erice offers breathtaking panoramic views and a rich historical atmosphere. Following the tour, we will stop at a renowned local winery, where you will have the opportunity to visit the cellars and learn about the winemaking process. The visit will include a delightful tasting of local wines paired with traditional Sicilian street food, offering an authentic taste of the region. We will then continue our journey toward Agrigento, making a stop at the ancient archaeological site of Selinunte along the way. Here, you will have the chance to marvel at the magnificent Greek temples, majestically positioned overlooking the sea, a sight that captures both history and natural beauty.Overnight in Agrigento.

After enjoying breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Agrigento, a city known for its remarkable archaeological sites. The highlight of the visit will be the renowned Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the majestic ancient Greek temples and ruins set against a stunning landscape. You will have the opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts that shed light on the history of the region. After the tour, the journey will continue towards the heart of Sicily, offering breathtaking views of the island's scenic countryside. For lunch, you will stop at a local organic farm, where you will be treated to an authentic, traditional Sicilian feast. The meal will include a variety of local dishes, fresh ingredients, and a delicious regional dessert, all accompanied by beverages. In the afternoon, before reaching Caltagirone we will stop in Piazza Armerina. You’ll have the option to visit the famous Villa Romana del Casale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman mosaics. Please note that the entrance ticket for the villa is not included and should be purchased directly at the site.Overnight in Caltagirone.

After breakfast, depart for Noto, a town renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy a walk through the historic downtown area, admiring the town’s elegant buildings, ornate churches and charming streets that showcase Noto’s rich architectural heritage. In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Siracusa. Explore Ortigia Island, the historical heart of the city. The visit will include the Aretusa Fountain, a picturesque landmark known for its lush papyrus plants and historical significance. You will also have the chance to view the Dome of Syracuse, an impressive Baroque church with a fascinating history, though only an external visit is included. Additionally, you will visit the Temple of Apollo, one of the oldest Doric temples in Sicily, offering insight into the ancient Greek influences in the region. Then continue to Taormina.Overnight in Taormina.

After breakfast, you will have an opportunity to explore Mount Etna, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the world (this excursion is not included and must be paid directly on-site). The journey will take you to the parking lot at an elevation of 1,900 meters, where you will join a tour to the summit. This excursion includes a cable car ride, followed by an off-road minivan adventure and a guided tour, providing an up-close experience of Etna's volcanic landscape. Following the Etna adventure, you will visit a renowned Sicilian wine producer for a delightful wine-tasting session. Here, you will also sample a variety of local food products, experiencing the rich flavours of Sicilian cuisine. In the afternoon, take a scenic walk through Taormina, a charming town often referred to as the "Pearl of the Ionian Coast." As you explore its elegant streets and historic sites, you will have the opportunity to visit a traditional local pastry shop, or “Pasticceria.” There, you will enjoy a demonstration of how Sicilian cannoli are made, followed by a tasting of this classic Sicilian dessert.Overnight in Taormina.

The trip concludes with a final breakfast at the hotel. After enjoying your meal, you will be transferred to Catania Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your Sicilian adventure, with memories of the island’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine.