SUNDAY: WELCOME TO TAORMINA AREA!
Arrive at Catania Airport. Once you've got your luggage, consider an optional group transfer to your hotel. No rush on this day, because no activities are planned, as the rooms will be ready after 14:00. Explore the charming city at your own pace by a program at the hotel. Have your dinner and a cozy overnight stay.
MONDAY: ETNA AND TAORMINA (OPTIONAL)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting off with our friendly tour escort to Mt. Etna, the majestic jewel of Sicily. Explore at the diverse vegetation and landscapes as you ascend to the "Silvestri Craters" at approximately 1,900 meters. For an extra thrill, you have the opportunity to go on the excursion jeep and cableway (at an additional cost). After tasting some local Sicilian specialties, return to the hotel. You also have the optional excursion to explore the town of Taormina, steeped in history and culture. Wander through its medieval streets, passing by landmarks like the 15th-century Palazzo Corvaja and the second-largest classical theatre in Sicily (Admission fee €20 not included). Conclude the day with dinner and your overnight stay.
TUESDAY: SYRACUSE
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before departing for Syracuse, home to the most charming archaeological wonders. Explore the Archaeological Park (available at an extra cost), featuring the Roman Amphitheatre, the Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysus, the Cave of the Cordari, and the historic Island of Ortigia. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening. Complete with dinner and an overnight stay.
WEDNESDAY: AGRIGENTO TO PALERMO
Breakfast at the hotel. Join the tour escort for a journey to Agrigento, where the Temples’ Valley awaits your exploration. Visit the Temple of Juno, the well-preserved Temple of Concorde, the Temple of Hercules, and the Temple of Castor and Pollux. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Palermo.
THURSDAY: ERICE, STAGNONE RESERVE & MARSALA WINE TASTING
Breakfast at the hotel before heading to Erice, a medieval town on the top of Monte San Giuliano. Admire the exterior of the Norman Castle and the Cathedral. Don't miss a stop at a local confectionery to savor Erice's typical almond pastry.On to Marsala and Stop in The Riserva dello Stagnone, a place with an amazing natural landscape with its white salt pans with windmills. Journey to Marsala, renowned for its wine production, and visit a winery for a delightful wine tasting. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for dinner and an overnight stay in Palermo.
FRIDAY: HIGHLIGHTS OF PALERMO & MONREALE
Wake up to a tasty breakfast at the hotel. In the morning the journey through Palermo starts with the iconic Teatro Massimo (from the outside). You will notice the vibrant atmosphere of the 'u Capo' local market, where you'll have the chance to savor some Sicilian specialties like the irresistible Arancina or sip on the famous 'AUTISTA' 'explosive' lemonade.
Next stop, the Cathedral—a true treasure trove of art and history. Wonder at the altar of the crucifix, a poignant celebration of Christ's suffering, and be captivated by the 17th-century ciborium adorned with lapis lazuli. Explore the Treasury rooms, where you'll find an array of precious items, including paraments, sacred silverware, and other exquisite furnishings.
As you stroll towards "I Quattro Canti", continue your journey to the enchanting town of Monreale, nestled on the slopes of Monte Caputo with a breathtaking view of Palermo. Monreale, once known for its abundant citrus orchards, invites you to explore its Cathedral—an architectural treasure hailed as one of the finest Norman constructions globally.
During the tour, we will have a tasting of the "arancina." End your day's adventures with a scenic drive to the Taormina area to return for dinner and an overnight stay, appreciating the memories of a day filled with cultural richness and culinary delights.
SATURDAY: "TAORMINA COAST TO COAST BY BOAT"
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, preparing for a relaxing day ahead. This day, you have the freedom to explore the charming city at your own pace. You can enjoy the beach for a refreshing swim, or pick an extra-special experience with the optional excursion "TAORMINA COAST TO COAST BY BOAT" (*).
Meet at the picturesque port of Giardini Naxos for a boat adventure with a small group of max. 12 persons. As you cruise along the Ionian Coast, revel in the amazing views of Mount Etna and the region's most fascinating landscapes. Discover hidden caves, explore the renowned "Grotta Azzurra" (weather permitting), unique rock formations, and the Nature Reserve of Isola Bella. Alternatively, go on for a daily Hop-on hop-off ticket. Return from your hotel for dinner and enjoy an overnight stay.
(*) Please note: Pickup and end of the excursion in Giardini Naxos Port, are subject to reconfirmation based on weather conditions.
SATURDAY: SICILY GODFATHER TOUR (OPTIONAL)
Breakfast at the hotel signaled the start of a captivating adventure to Forza D'Agrò, a picturesque hillside village overlooking Taormina. Dive into the cinematic world with a tour of locations made famous by the iconic film, The Godfather.
Wander through the narrow streets of Forza D'Agrò, soaking in breathtaking views and admiring the Durazzesco arch and the Cathedral—a setting for one of the most romantic scenes in The Godfather, the wedding of Micheal Corleone. The Panoramic Square offers an extraordinary view of the coast. Continue your cinematic journey to Savoca, where scenes from The Godfather were brought to life. Explore the preserved locations, including the iconic Bar Vitelli, used in the filming of The Godfather.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
SUNDAY: DEPARTURE AND ARRIVEDERCI!
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel. Check out at 10:00, and for added convenience, consider the optional group transfer to Catania airport. Grazie and arrivederci—thank you for being part of this Sicilian journey!
