Palermo, North Sicily & Aeolian Islands - 9 days Tour by On The Go Tours

9 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

40 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 80 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Starts

Palermo, Italy

Ends

Taormina, Italy

Highlights

Monreale - Admire the Norman Cathedral and Arab-Norman cloister, masterpieces of medieval architecture

Palermo - Discover the Cappella Palatina, a dazzling chapel blending Byzantine mosaics with Norman and Arab artistry

Cefalu - Stroll the medieval streets and visit the striking Norman Cathedral overlooking the sea

Catania - Experience the UNESCO-listed Baroque centre, including the Cathedral, lava-stone Elephant Fountain, and Via dei Crociferi

Mount Etna - Explore the Crateri Silvestri and admire sweeping views across Sicily from Europe’s highest active volcano

Taormina - Visit the ancient Greek Theatre with panoramic views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos Bay

Lipari - Cruise the island’s rugged coastline, swim in clear waters, and see the Castle of Lipari

Salina - Taste the island’s Malvasia wine and admire the volcanic scenery of Pollara Bay, setting of ‘Il Postino’

Panarea - Relax on Zimmari Beach and explore the scenic bay of Calajunco beneath a prehistoric village

Stromboli - Witness the Sciara del Fuoco at sunset, as glowing lava streams cascade into the sea

Taormina - Visit the ancient Greek Theatre with panoramic views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos Bay

Lipari - Cruise the island’s rugged coastline, swim in clear waters, and see the Castle of Lipari

Salina - Taste the island’s Malvasia wine and admire the volcanic scenery of Pollara Bay, setting of ‘Il Postino’

Panarea - Relax on Zimmari Beach and explore the scenic bay of Calajunco beneath a prehistoric village

Stromboli - Witness the Sciara del Fuoco at sunset, as glowing lava streams cascade into the sea

Itinerary

Embark on a captivating journey through Sicily on this 9-day tour, beginning in vibrant Palermo, where you'll discover highlights like the Cathedral and Martorana Church. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest volcano, before wandering the medieval streets of Taormina, home to a stunning Greek theatre with panoramic views. The tour continues with a private extension to the Aeolian Islands, with visits to Lipari, Salina, Panarea, and Stromboli, offering incredible swimming spots, awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes, and picturesque villages. Your tour ends back in Sicily, in Taormina.

day 1 - Palermo

Arrive individually at your hotel in Palermo. Private transfers can be arranged upon request. Enjoy dinner at your leisure, then settle in for the night at your hotel.

Please note: This is a multi-lingual tour, and guiding will be in Italian and Spanish as well as English.

OverNight:Palermo

day 2 - Exploring Monreale & Palermo

Palermo - Monreale - Palermo. After breakfast at the hotel, we head to Monreale, where we'll explore the impressive Norman Cathedral and its exquisite Arab-Norman cloister.

We then return to Palermo, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Pellegrino and praised by Goethe for its beauty. Palermo features a unique blend of architectural styles, from Baroque to Art Nouveau. The city's eclectic charm also includes Punic walls, stately residences, and elegant 17th-century squares. Our tour will take us to the remarkable Cathedral, the Martorana Church, and the exquisite Cappella Palatina.

We will pause during the day for a typical local lunch. As we continue, you will have the opportunity to admire the renowned Teatro Massimo and the controversial Pretoria Fountain, adorned with 16th-century sculptures, situated in the historic Kalsa area. The evening is yours to explore at your leisure.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

OverNight:Palermo

day 3 - Cefalu & Catania

Palermo - Cefalu - Catania. After breakfast, we transfer to Cefalu, a captivating medieval town on Sicily's northern coast. We'll explore its remarkable Norman Cathedral, after which you have free time to wander the charming streets or visit the well-known Mandralisca Museum. We then stop for lunch at a renowned restaurant before heading back to Catania.

In Catania, we'll explore the historical city centre, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Distinctive for its Baroque architecture and streets crafted from black lava stone, the city centre's striking black and dark grey buildings are accented by limestone details, creating an elegant effect. Our walking tour starts at the scenic Duomo Square, home to the magnificent Cathedral and the famous "Liotru", a centuries-old lava-stone elephant and the city’s symbol.

From here, we proceed to University Square and stroll down the splendid Via dei Crociferi, a quintessential 18th-century Baroque street. We’ll admire the renowned S. Benedict Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. During our visit, we'll pause at a historic bar in the city centre to sample the traditional "granita & brioche". After the tour, the rest of today is at leisure.

Please note: Very occasionally on this tour, you will stay in the coastal seaside village of Acitrezza, instead of Catania. Our Reservations team will be able to confirm where you will be staying on any given departure.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

OverNight:Catania

day 4 - Etna & Taormina

Catania - Taormina - Catania. This morning, we visit Catania's famous pescheria, an ancient fish market. Our journey then takes us to Mount Etna, Europe's highest volcano at approximately 3,350 metres, and one of the most active in the world. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Etna's regional park spans 59,000 hectares and is home to unique geology, diverse flora and fauna, as well as traditional practices in forestry, beekeeping, wine making, and craftsmanship.

As we head to Rifugio Sapienza, prepare to be captivated by the stunning landscapes. We will explore the Crateri Silvestri, small, inactive volcanic cones surrounded by ancient lava flows. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views extending across Sicily, the Aeolian Islands, and Calabria - a truly unparalleled sight.

You'll have the opportunity to sample local homemade honey and other regional specialties before we enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Our tour continues to Taormina, which offers an iconic view of Mount Etna. We will visit Taormina’s remarkable Greek theatre, where you can admire the panoramic vistas over Giardini Naxos Bay and Mount Etna. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the picturesque medieval streets, shop for local handicrafts like coral jewellery, delicate lace, ceramics, and pastries, or simply take in the charming atmosphere. We return to the hotel in Catania for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

OverNight:Catania

day 5 - Catania to the Aeolian Islands

Catania - Lipari. Enjoy a free morning in Catania before taking an included private transfer to Milazzo, where you board a hydrofoil to Lipari island. Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel for check in. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and start exploring the Aeolian Islands independently.

Please note: Your tour leader will not accompany you to the Aeolian Islands - you will enjoy guided sightseeing with local guides as per the Inclusions.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

OverNight:Lipari

day 6 - Lipari & Salina Boat Trip

Lipari - Salina - Lipari. Embark on a full-day boat excursion to explore the islands of Lipari and Salina. The boat departs from the harbour, offering views of the Castle of Lipari, Monte Rosa, and Canneto as you skirt the Lipari coastline. You'll have the opportunity to swim in the clear blue waters of Pumice Cave beach.

As you continue to Salina, pass by the renowned Acquacalda bay. Stop at the Santa Marina Salina, the largest town on the island. You will then explore Salina's eastern side from the sea, stopping to admire Malfa village and Capofaro town, known for its Malvasia wineries. Pause at Pollara bay, famously featured in Massimo Troisi's film "Il Postino."

The next stop is the picturesque fishing village of Lingua, where you have free time to explore the island, visit Lago Salato, or sample the local cuisine at the restaurants.

On your return journey, visit Lipari's stunning grottos and enjoy another swim at Vinci beach, opposite the Faraglioni rocks. Arriving back in Lipari late afternoon, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Please note: This is a group boat trip, and you will join approximately 10 - 20 other travellers onboard.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

OverNight:Lipari

day 7 - Panarea & Stromboli Boat Trip

Lipari - Panarea - Stromboli - Lipari. Enjoy another included boat trip today, as you are transported to the harbour for a full-day excursion to Panarea and Stromboli. Begin with a swim at the Cave of Pumice before heading on to Panarea. Here, you can explore the stunning bay of Calajunco, located below the prehistoric Cape Milazzese village, and enjoy a dip at Zimmari Beach.

The boat will navigate past nearby islets, stopping at the delightful Cava degli Innamorati. Once on Panarea, you have free time to enjoy lunch and enjoy a wander. In the afternoon, journey to Stromboli, first visiting Ginostra, a quaint fishing village. On Stromboli, you are free to dine, stroll, swim, or shop. During warmer months, you can take advantage of the island's stunning beaches and volcanic caves. A packed lunch will be provided onboard today.

At sunset, return to the boat to view Strombolicchio, a towering rock formation, and experience the Sciara del Fuoco. This dramatic volcanic display features fiery lapilli creating streams of lava flowing into the sea. The boat will then return you to Lipari.

Please note: This is a group boat trip, and you will join approximately 10 - 20 other travellers onboard.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

OverNight:Lipari

day 8 - Return to Taormina

Lipari - Taormina. After breakfast at the hotel, it's time to head back to Sicily. You will be transferred to Lipari harbour to catch a hydrofoil to Milazzo. Upon arrival in Milazzo, a private driver will be ready to take you to Taormina. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. If you have time, consider heading to Isola Bella, one of Sicily’s most captivating beaches, known as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean."

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

OverNight:Taormina

day 9 - Taormina

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before check-out. There's no included transfer, so you can make your own way to the airport or your next destination.

Meals:1 Breakfast

Palermo, North Sicily & Aeolian Islands - 9 days

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What's Included

Accommodation

8 nights 3-4-star hotelsPrivate transfers from Catania hotel to Milazzo port on day 5, Lipari port to Lipari hotel on day 5 & Milazzo port - Taormina hotel on day 8

Meals

8 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 3 dinners

Transport

Transportation in a deluxe bus from days 2 - 4

Guide

Escorted by a multi-lingual tour leader (Italian, English & Spanish) in Sicily with the services of local guides for some sightseeing and audio guidesLatest generation audio guide which transmits the guide's voice up to 150 metres away (in Sicily)

Others

Round-trip hydrofoil from Milazzo - Lipari - MilazzoGuided sightseeing in Monreale, Palermo, Cefalu, Catania & EtnaTastings of Italian products: Sicilian granita with brioche in Catania on day 3 and honey and typical products in the Etna area on day 41 shared group boat excursion (approx 10 - 20 people) of Lipari & Salina1 shared group boat excursion (approx 10 - 20 people) of Panarea & StromboliNote: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go Tours

Entrance

Entrance fees for sites visited on the Aeolian Islands

What's Excluded

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