As one of our Independent Tours, Sicily's Vino & Volcanoes encompasses the must-see sights and tastes of this spectacular Italian island. Explore at your own pace, taking time to savour the local delicacies and pausing to create those moments that last a lifetime. As the name suggests, this exclusive tour includes a tasting of local wine, a boat tour from Ortigia island, and a guided group walk on the flanks of mighty Mount Etna, the most active stratovolcano in the world.
Your island journey begins in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ragusa Ibla, an important city of the arts in Italy. The historic centre is brimming with architectural treasures dating back to the 17th century, with stunning churches and baroque style mansions perched on their own hilltop. Your next stop is Noto, another baroque beauty that's listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll enjoy wine tasting at a local enoteca and have two nights to discover Noto's famous buildings, some of the finest examples of Sicilian baroque style, not to mention the city's famous frozen granita - perfectly refreshing on a summer's day!
Continue onwards to Syracuse, an exquisite coastal city where you'll stay for two nights on its small island of Ortigia. Wander the labyrinth of charming medieval streets, packed with history and an incredible local market bursting with colour, scents, and authentic Sicilian flavours; the ideal opportunity to sample homegrown produce.
Your Italian adventure concludes on the northern tip of Eastern Sicily in the unmissable hilltop town of Taormina. Overlooking the beautiful bay below with Mount Etna commanding attention in the distance, Taormina is home to a remarkably well-preserved Greek Theatre from the 3rd century which we highly recommend visiting. Don't miss the small village of Castelmola, famous for its medieval castle, local almond wine, and panoramic views across Etna. From the coast, you can enjoy hidden coves and sandy beaches, rent kayaks, snorkels, or embark on a boat tour across the glistening Mediterranean.
No trip to Sicily would be complete without visiting Mount Etna; we have included a guided group tour to this iconic volcano (includes return transfers) where you'll benefit from insider knowledge as you explore Etna's craters and lava flows - the highlight of your Sicilian Tour.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Catania, Noto, Island Of Ortigia
Catania, Noto, Island Of Ortigia, Taormina, Mount Etna
Head for Monte Subasio on a 3-hour walking tour of Assisi and explore Italy’s famous pilgrimage site. Stroll the maze of medieval streets, and visit the Basilicas of Santa Chiara and St. Francis to see one of Italy’s largest collections of church art. Located on a gentle hill beneath the summit of Monte Subasio, the fabled Umbrian town of Assisi is the most famous pilgrimage site in Italy, a consequence of being the birthplace of Saint Francis.
Born in the village of warm pink stone in 1182, Francis founded the mendicant Franciscan order to which he gave his name in 1210. Prior to his birth, Assisi had been settled by ancient Umbrian tribes, and later became a Roman town. Thanks to this rich history and blend of incredible architecture and art, Assisi is a multi-faceted town.
Discover all its facets in one emotional 3-hour walking tour. Stop by to pay particular attention to the 2 churches of the Basilica of Santa Chiara, dedicated to the founder of the Order of Poor Ladies, and the Papal Basilica of St. Francis, built between 1228 and 1253. It is now home to the consecrated remains of the saint.
The stunning monument is also said to have the best collection of art in any church of Italy, including frescoes and paintings by Cimabue, Giotto, Lorenzetti and more.
Discover the beautiful medieval town of Trani, city of art for its medieval monuments and the buildings of the nineteenth century.
Discover the old town, starting with a visit to the medieval castle built by Emperor Frederick II Hohenstaufen in 1233 on the Adriatic Sea.
The tour continues with a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of Trani, the most beautiful cathedral in the Romanesque style of Puglia, built in honor of St. Nicholas the Pilgrim, the patron saint of the city.
After seeing the beauty of the cathedral, the tour continues in the medieval Jewish quarter, built entirely of white stone, and will visit outside two synagogues along the way, Scolanova and Scola Grande
The tour ends with a lovely walk along the yacht harbor
My personal preference would have been for more time in Pompeii (half a day is barely time to scratch the surface) and to skip the stop in Naples, but if you're more interested in modern cities than archaeology, you'd probably disagree. This tour is a well-balanced mix, with something for everyone. Our tour leader was absolutely amazing - it was more like going on holiday with a friend than a paid guide!
City sightseeingBeach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
A wonderful trip, wonderful people, amazing sights and glorious walking weather.
Our guide, Matteo and all of the Hotel staff were warm, friendly and welcoming. I would highly recommend taking this trip with Explore.
City sightseeingWalkingBeach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Soak up la dolce vita on this week-long holiday showcasing the cultural highlights of the Amalfi Coast. Blending ancient history, vibrant villages, stunning coastal walks and authentic cuisine, our itinerary ticks off Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri, Sorrento, Amalfi, and Ravello - an unforgettable Italian experience.
Traditional Amalfi villages - Beaches, alleyways, lemon groves and cliff-top views, each village reveals its own charm and story.
Italian hospitality - Stay in a welcoming family-run hotel with home-style cooking and warm hospitality.
Culture & history - Discover Pompeii, Herculaneum, medieval churches, and elegant villas for a journey through Italy's rich past.
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Uncover the Alps in all their glory as you spend eight days hiking the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc. Following a circuit route from Chamonix in France, come face to face with dizzying peaks, glittering lakes and rolling pastures, passing through Switzerland and Italy on the way. Each day ends in charming accommodation, and your luggage will be transported for you to lighten the load. With a highly qualified International Mountain Leader as your guide who will not only ensure your safety, but also show you what makes this part of the world so special, you can focus on the gorgeous natural scenery!
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Argentiere, Champex, C
Chamonix, Argentiere, Champex, Courmayeur, Les Chapieux, Les Contamines-Montjoie
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Explore lakeside gems on this six-day adventure through northern Italy. Based at Lake Garda, you’ll discover Mesolithic remains at Manerba del Garda, sit down to lunch at a local winery and join a guided walking tour through Verona. Stroll through the romantic city, famed for its Roman Arena, see Juliet’s balcony and cruise across Lake Garda to Sirmione. Learn about the ancient ruins at Grotte di Catullo and enjoy plenty of free time to explore at your own pace – maybe visit Scaliger Castle or join your fellow travellers for a pizza feast!
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lake Garda
Lake Garda
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Very well organised trip. Logistics were excellent, accommodation was comfortable and central to all amenities of the towns. Hike maps and notes were extremely detailed. I would highly recommend them and am considering another trip in the near future.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover the Italian Dolomites in style on this six-day Premium walking and trekking adventure. Base yourself in scenic Cortina d’Ampezzo – the gateway to the Dolomites. Explore iconic landscapes like Cinque Torri, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Ampezzo Valley and Val Gardena on easy to moderate hikes. Visit the WWI Open-Air Museum, and relax at historic mountain refuges. Indulge in a delicious fusion of Italian, Austrian and German cuisine (your leader will have all the best spots ready). With premium accommodation and seamless transfers, you can enjoy the comfort of unpacking once while experiencing the best of this stunning alpine region.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Cortina D’Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Cortina D’Ampezzo
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
The heel of Italy’s boot, formed of the Puglia and Basilicata regions, offers trails through olive groves and towns seemingly plucked from a storybook – ideal for a culture-packed walking adventure. This walking holiday in Puglia and Matera begins among the fairytale trulli houses of Alberobello and continues to the highlights of the region: the Itria Valley hills; the white city of Ostuni; and the cave town of Matera − 10,000 years old with a spectacular ravine-edge location.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This tour of Sicily begins in the Taormina area, where the imposing Mt. Etna, Europe's most active volcano, awaits exploration within the vast Park of Etna. Delve into Syracuse's captivating archaeological sites, from the Roman Amphitheatre to the Greek Theatre, and wander through Ortigia's ancient nucleus with its remarkable cathedral. Sign up for a trip to The Temples' Valley in Agrigento to see iconic ancient structures like the Temple of Concorde, the Temple of Hercules, among others. Next up is a coastal boat tour offering breathtaking views of Taormina and opportunities for optional snorkeling at renowned spots like the "Grotta Azzurra." Opt for a captivating excursion to the UNESCO-listed Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Vulcano, soaking in their historical and natural splendor. Dive into the cinematic legacy of The Godfather with visits to Forza D'Agrò and Savoca, revealing iconic filming locations.
A trip like this depends on many factors especially the guide and travel companions. In this case we were so fortunate to have Fabio Giorlando as our exceptional guide. Our travel companions were terrific! The itinerary was varied and interesting. The family run businesses we visited warmly welcomed us and shared their stories and food/wine experiences.
The food and restaurant choices were enjoyable. It was very nice that Fabio arranged reservations at restaurants for the meals not covered by the tour making it easy for us to decide whether to eat there or elsewhere (we always ate there and the food and venue were always good.)
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Palermo, Monreale, Corleone, Mod
Palermo, Monreale, Corleone, Modica, Syracusa, Ortygia, Catania
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
Alessandra GalassiTravel Expert in Italy
Elena KyrimiTravel Expert in Greece & Italy
Danilo CataniaTravel Expert in Italy
