The tour was expensive and we were in a mediocre hotel with flaky internet.
But the tour leader was exceptional in all areas. Her presentations were faultless, her interest beyond compare and nothing was ever too much trouble for her. An excellent part of the holiday
Would l travel with Explore again? Probably not they're too expensive. Without Lara's input l'd be asking for a refund.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Catania, Giardini Naxos, Mount E
Catania, Giardini Naxos, Mount Etna, Lipari, Taormina, Syracusa
We were bike fitted with very comfortable bikes which we enjoyed riding. The GPS was excellent although we did misplace ourselves now and then. The rides went through very beautiful Tuscan country and lovely villages. My favourite was Lucca. Thanks for providing great equipment we enjoyed this week of our holiday in Italy.
About This Trip
On this unforgettable self-drive tour through the heart of Sicily witness the architectural wonders, ancient temples, charming villages, stunning beaches and create an unparalleled experience. Start in Palermo and admire its historical charm. Admire the Palermo Cathedral and immerse yourself in the vibrant street life. Then visit Monreale to marvel at the intricate mosaics adorning its cathedral. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of Mondello Beach. Journey to Marsala Stagnone to witness the captivating salt pans. Continue to Erice, perched atop Monte San Giuliano and admire its medieval allure. Explore the archaeological site of Segesta, where the Doric temple stands as a testament to ancient history. Continue to Agrigento to witness the grandeur of the Valley of the Temples. Discover the Baroque beauty of Ragusa, wandering through its streets adorned with churches and palaces. Continuing to Modica and Noto, each boasting unique architectural marvels. Embark on an adventure to Mount Etna, the active volcano surrounded by diverse landscapes within Etna Park. Stroll through Taormina's charming streets, admiring Palazzo Corvaja and the Greco-Roman theatre. Conclude your journey in Palermo, soaking in its energetic ambiance and Baroque splendor. Perfect for those seeking immersive Italy vacations, this day-to-day self-drive itinerary offers a rich and varied experience, showcasing the historical, cultural, and natural treasures of each destination in Sicily.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Embark on an extraordinary self-drive tour and immerse yourself in the captivating wonders of Sicily. Your journey begins in Catania, where the fiery majesty of Mount Etna beckons. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of Europe's most active volcano, a true marvel of nature. Move on to Taormina, where ancient ruins meet breathtaking views of the Azure Ionian Sea. Delight in the charm of the ancient Greco-Roman Theater, a testament to Sicily's grand past. Syracuse awaits, a living museum boasting well-preserved Greek ruins and the quaint allure of Ortigia Island. The Baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica, and Noto will enchant you with their architectural splendor and tantalizing culinary delights. Journey to Agrigento and stand in awe before the legendary Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, Palermo unfolds, revealing its architectural marvels and the breathtaking mosaics of Monreale Cathedral. Venture further to uncover the ancient secrets of Segesta's Greek temple and surrender to the serenity of San Vito Lo Capo's sun-kissed beaches and Scopello's coastal charm. Among many popular tours of Italy, Sicily is one of the highlights because its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality create an unparalleled experience, leaving your heart forever entwined with this magical island.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Palermo, Catania, Taormina, Syra
Palermo, Catania, Taormina, Syracuse, Noto, Agrigento, Monreale, Sicily
From the Baroque splendour of Lecce, to the unique 'trulli' style houses of Alberobello and the cave houses (Sassi) in neighbouring Matera, this self-guided walking trip allows you to discover the beauty of the region at your own relaxed pace. There is plenty of time to appreciate the magnificent coastline and trulli strewn landscapes, and to spend lingering afternoons savouring the traditional cuisine.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Matera, Lecce, Otranto, Ostuni
Matera, Lecce, Otranto, Ostuni, Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Gravina
Combine Italy in 8 Days with Nearby Countries for an Unforgettable Trip
See tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Italy
Sicily was absolutely stunning! The food, the history, and the warm hospitality made this one of our favorite trips ever. Taormina and Palermo were just magical!
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover the Dolomites on a small group hiking adventure. With easy to moderate walks, conveniently located accommodation and a knowledgeable local leader to keep everything running smoothly, this trip offers an active yet leisurely way to explore one of Italy’s most iconic mountain ranges. Base yourself in the alpine town of Dobbiaco – surrounded by pointy peaks and lush meadows – and spend eight days hiking through UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes, kicking back in village inns and refuelling with hearty mountain food – apple strudel, anyone?
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Hut, Resort
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Venice, Dobbiaco, Lake Braies, B
Venice, Dobbiaco, Lake Braies, Brunico, Cortina D’Ampezzo, Bolzano, Tre Cime Di Lavaredo
Calling all sun-seeking adventurers! Take an eight-day trip to Sicily and explore dramatic cliffside villages, soak in the Sicilian sunshine and take in the scenic views of clear waters (did we mention the deliciously fresh seafood?). From the volcanic valleys of Mt Etna to the timeworn streets of Syracuse and the Baroque wonders Ragusa, get ready to discover the varied sides of Sicily. Take a step back in time as you explore the ruins of the Valley of the Temples and learn of the rich anti-Mafia history in Palermo. Eat good food, drink local wines and learn about the region with a handy local by your side – there's a reason everybody loves Italy!
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
From Rome to Palermo, the Beautiful of Puglia, Campania and Sicily tour offers seniors an 8-day journey through southern Italy’s most captivating regions. This group sightseeing trip covers Palermo, Salerno, and four additional locales, balancing cultural discovery with comfort and ease. Accommodations, meals, and transport are all included, letting you sit back and savor each destination’s unique flavor. The USP is the thoughtfully curated route, which showcases both Puglia’s rustic charm and Sicily’s storied landscapes in one convenient tour package.
Dreamy beaches, inspiring architecture and ancient wonders come together on an eight-day Premium adventure through Italy’s Puglia region. Understated and unbelievably beautiful, this lesser-visited corner of Italy delivers in historical, cultural and natural sights. Begin in the coastal town of Bari, admire unusual trulli buildings in Alberobello, stay in a former palace in Nardo, explore ancient sassi homes in Matera and discover the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii. With a local leader by your side and expert guides joining you along the way, you’ll really get a kick out of this adventure.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
We explore the very best of this captivating region from our start point in Alberobello, known for its UNESCO-listed Trulli houses, to the end point in Lecce, known as the 'Florence of the South'.
The daily routes take you through the Murghe plateau, the Salento plain or along the coast. Discover a landscape of ancient olive groves, long fields of grain and vineyards.
The architecture of the region takes you from the conical Trulli houses in Alberobello, the white city of Ostuni, past traditional masserie, coastal watchtowers and splendid Baroque towns. The region is filled with spectacular views; beautiful coastline and mouth-watering cuisine.
This holiday is offered with a choice of mainly 3 Star, or mainly 4 Star accommodation. The 3 Star accommodation is listed on the hotels page.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
14-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lecce, Alberobello, Ostuni, Avet
Lecce, Alberobello, Ostuni, Avetrana, Gallipoli, Santa Maria Di Leuca, Otranto
