Splendours of Sicily
8 Days Starting and ending in Catania, Italy
Visiting: Catania, Syracuse, Agrigento, Palermo, Mount Etna
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1140
Specialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
13-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Splendours of Sicily" tour, a delightful journey through Italy's enchanting island, tailored for singles and food enthusiasts. This 7-night adventure offers stays in luxurious 4-star hotels across Catania, Ragusa, Agrigento, and Palermo. Immerse yourself in Sicily's rich history and culture with visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Valley of the Temples and the baroque treasures of Noto and Modica. Savor the island's culinary delights with daily breakfasts, curated meals, and tastings of local specialties, including Sicilian granita and brioche. Explore the vibrant cities and picturesque towns with the guidance of a multilingual tour leader, ensuring a seamless experience. Enjoy comfortable, air-conditioned transportation as you traverse the island, visiting iconic landmarks such as Mount Etna and the Greco-Roman theatre in Taormina. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Sicily's captivating landscapes, history, and gastronomy.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome To Catania
Location: Catania
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Il Principe Hotel, Catania, or similar
Your journey begins as you arrive in Catania, a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. You have the option to include a private airport transfer for added convenience and comfort. After your arrival, take the opportunity to unwind and immerse yourself in the charming Catania city center. Explore its historic streets, savor local cuisine, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this Sicilian gem.
Day 2 : Catania > Syracuse > Noto > Ragusa
Location: Syracuse
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mediterraneo Palace, Ragusa, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart after breakfast for Syracuse to explore the impressive Archaeological Park of Neapolis, the largest Greek colony in Sicily. Visit the captivating old town center of Ortigia, featuring the stunning Piazza Duomo and its magnificent Cathedral. Continue on to Noto, renowned as the "stone garden" and celebrated for its UNESCO-listed baroque architecture. Stroll through the city center, marveling at the craftsmanship displayed by local artisans. Noto's baroque structures boast intricate details, from elegant curves to floral motifs, creating a visual feast. Conclude the day with a journey to Ragusa, where you'll check in at the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3 : Ragusa > Modica > Piazza Armerina > Agrigento
Location: Agrigento
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Baia Di Ulisse Wellness & Spa, Agrigento, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast at the hotel, explore the enchanting town of Ragusa Ibla, known for its stunning churches and the picturesque Ibleo garden. Continue your journey to Modica, where you'll be captivated by its abundance of baroque treasures, all designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Conclude your visit with a delightful tasting of local products. Next, head to Piazza Armerina for a visit to the magnificent Villa Romana del Casale, a remarkable late imperial period residence and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, transfer to your hotel in Agrigento, where you'll enjoy a delicious dinner and a comfortable night's rest.
Day 4 : Agrigento > Marsala > Saline > Palermo
Location: Palermo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Palermo Centro, Palermo, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore the renowned Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, marvel at the impressive temples of Giunone, Concordia, and Ercole. Later, continue your journey to Marsala, a city steeped in history from Phoenician, Arab, and Norman dominations. Immerse yourself in a wine-tasting session to savor the distinctive local flavors. Next, visit the famous Via del Sale, where the lagoon and the islands of Stagnone form a vast nature reserve of significant environmental importance. The salt marshes in this area represent one of the oldest salt mining industries globally. In the evening, arrive in Palermo, where you'll check in at the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 5 : Palermo > Monreale > Palermo
Location: Palermo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Palermo Centro, Palermo, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a journey to Monreale, a town renowned for its remarkable Arab-Norman Cathedral and breathtaking Cloister. Following this visit, return to Palermo. In Palermo, immerse yourself in the historical treasures of the Arab-Norman period. Explore the splendid Cathedral, the captivating Byzantine Church of the Martorana, and the Palatine Chapel, a remarkable testament to the coexistence of diverse cultures and religions. While exploring, take a pause for a delightful culinary surprise at a local bakery. Conclude the day with a comfortable overnight stay in Palermo.
Day 6 : Palermo > Cefalu > Catania
Location: Catania
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Il Principe Hotel, Catania, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before setting off to the picturesque medieval village of Cefalù. Here, you'll marvel at the Norman Cathedral, a true architectural gem. Take some leisure time to explore the renowned Mandralisca Museum, known for its intriguing collections. Continue your journey to Catania, a city boasting baroque architecture that has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Delight in a leisurely stroll through the old town center, making your way through the historic 'pescheria' (old fish market) to reach the scenic Piazza del Duomo. Here, you'll be captivated by the stunning Cathedral and the iconic lava stone Elephant, a symbol of the city. Indulge in a delightful stop at a local bar to savor the famous granita with brioche, a quintessential Sicilian treat. End your day with a comfortable overnight stay in Catania.
Day 7 : Catania > Etna > Taormina > Catania
Location: Mount Etna
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Il Principe Hotel, Catania, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a fascinating journey. Begin with a quick visit to a historic "fishmonger," providing a glimpse into the vibrant local market scene. Next, set your sights on Etna, the towering and active volcano that stands as the highest in Europe at 3,350 meters. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Etna Park encompasses a vast 59,000 hectares, boasting a diverse and flourishing flora, as well as a host of protected species. The awe-inspiring landscapes become increasingly visible as you approach Rifugio Sapienza. Continue to Crateri Silvestri, volcanic cones that date back to 1888. While these cones are now dormant, they are surrounded by more recent lava flows. The panoramic view from this vantage point encompasses a multitude of volcanic cones and craters, extending all the way to the Aeolian Islands and Calabria, presenting an utterly unique spectacle. Later, visit a beekeeping farm to witness the honey extraction process and savor homemade honey alongside other typical local products. Proceed to Taormina, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, marine wonders, historical landmarks, and an unforgettable view of the sea and Mount Etna. Explore the captivating Greco-Roman theatre, which offers a sweeping view of Naxos Bay. As the day winds down, take in the splendid panorama of the stunning Riviera dei Ciclopi. Finally, return to your hotel in Catania for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 8 : Catania Departure
Location: Catania
Meals Included: Breakfast
Savor a final breakfast at the hotel, cherishing the last moments of your Sicilian adventure. If desired, you have the option to arrange a private transfer to the airport. Safe travels!
What's Included
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7-night stay in 4-star hotels
Enjoy a 7-night stay in 4-star hotels, ensuring both comfort and quality throughout your journey.
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Multilingual tour leader
Throughout your journey, you'll be accompanied by a knowledgeable multilingual tour leader, ensuring seamless communication and providing insightful commentary.
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Immersive chocolate tour in Modica
Experience an immersive tour of a renowned chocolate manufacturer in Modica on the third day with tastings.
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Visit to a local cellar in Marsala
Visit a local cellar in Marsala on the fourth day, where you'll have the opportunity to sample some of the finest vintages.
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Sicilian product tasting in Palermo
Treat your taste buds to an array of Sicilian products during a tasting session in Palermo on the fifth day.
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Granita and brioche tasting in Catania
Indulge in the iconic Sicilian combination of granita and brioche during a tasting in Catania on the sixth day.
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Visit to a honey factory near Mount Etna
Engage in an enlightening visit to a honey factory in the foothills of Mount Etna on the seventh day with tastings.
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Local guides or audio guides
Local guides or audio guides will be available when necessary, enhancing your understanding of specific sites and locations.
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Air-conditioned transportation
Enjoy comfortable and air-conditioned transportation by bus from the second day to the seventh day, facilitating smooth and efficient travel between destinations.
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Exploration of Sicilian cities and sites
Explore an array of captivating Sicilian cities, towns, and archaeological sites as outlined in the meticulously crafted itinerary.
What's Not Included
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International or domestic airfare
International or domestic airfare is not included in the tour package.
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Gratuities
Gratuities to guides and drivers are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.
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Beverages during meals
Beverages during meals and additional meals when not mentioned on the itinerary are not included.
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Entrance fees to monuments or museums
Entrance fees to monuments or museums are not included.
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Local city tax
Local city tax for overnight stays is not included.
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Visas
Visas required for entry into the country as necessary are not included.
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Personal expenses
Anything of a personal nature or that is not mentioned in included is not covered.
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably with air-conditioned bus transportation from the second to the seventh day, facilitating smooth and efficient travel between captivating Sicilian destinations.
Accommodation
Enjoy a 7-night stay in 4-star hotels, including 3 nights in Catania, 1 night in Ragusa, 1 night in Agrigento, and 2 nights in Palermo, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes a 7-night stay in 4-star hotels, ensuring both comfort and quality throughout the journey. You will spend 3 nights in Catania, 1 night in Ragusa, 1 night in Agrigento, and 2 nights in Palermo.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, daily breakfasts are included, along with 6 meals that are thoughtfully curated to showcase traditional Italian and Sicilian flavors. These meals are served either at the hotel or local restaurants. Additionally, there are specific tastings and lunches included on certain days.
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Will there be a tour guide during the trip?
Yes, throughout the journey, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable multilingual tour leader who ensures seamless communication and provides insightful commentary. Local guides or audio guides will also be available when necessary to enhance your understanding of specific sites and locations.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour provides comfortable and air-conditioned transportation by bus from the second day to the seventh day, facilitating smooth and efficient travel between destinations.
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Are there any special tastings or culinary experiences included?
Yes, the tour includes several culinary experiences such as a light lunch in Modica, a wine tasting in Marsala, a tasting session of Sicilian products in Palermo, a granita and brioche tasting in Catania, and a visit to a honey factory near Mount Etna with tastings.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, solo travellers are required to book a Single (Private) room.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes, please enquire for details, we'll be happy to assist wherever we can.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Electronic Vouchers. These will be provided and attached to your booking (within the Documents section) aprox. 2 weeks prior to travel.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No, unfortunately that is not possible on our trips.
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CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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