Sicily & the Aegadian Islands - 10 days

Arrive individually at your hotel in Catania. 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. Please also note that 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.

Catania - Syracuse - Noto - Ragusa. After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for Syracuse, the most significant Greek colony in Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our visit begins at the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the remarkable Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, the Latomie of Paradise, and the captivating Ear of Dionysius.

We then explore the enchanting island of Ortigia, the historical heart of Syracuse. Here, you'll admire the impressive Cathedral, which dominates the square with its commanding Sicilian Baroque façade - a transformation from its original Doric temple structure. From Piazza Duomo, we stop at a spacious terrace overlooking the waterfront, featuring the renowned Arethusa’s Fountain, a famous freshwater source from the Greek era. You have free time for lunch here.

In the afternoon, we travel to Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its exquisite 18th-century architecture, Noto is a striking example of the "open city" concept, with its sun-kissed local limestone buildings. The town's Baroque architecture showcases elegant curves, floral designs, and theatrical perspectives, with stunning facades on its churches and monasteries. We will visit the Palazzo Nicolaci Villadorata, an extraordinary Baroque noble residence. Afterwards, you have free time to stroll through the charming streets.

Our day concludes with a transfer to Ragusa, where we will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Ragusa - Modica - Piazza Armerina - Agrigento. Today, we begin with a visit to Ragusa Ibla, the cradle of Sicilian Baroque architecture. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a filming location for the popular TV series Inspector Montalbano, Ragusa Ibla is a charming ancient town boasting over 50 churches and numerous Baroque treasures. We will explore its stunning Cathedral in Dome Square and wander through the “Giardino Ibleo”, the oldest of Ragusa's four main gardens. At 383 metres above sea level, this garden offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

Our tour continues to Modica, another UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in Baroque architecture. As we stroll through its quaint streets, we will stop at Sabadì, a renowned chocolate manufacturer. Here, you can enjoy a multisensory chocolate tasting, featuring unique Sicilian flavours like nepitella (wild mint), orange blossom honey, raw PGI-quality Sicilian lemon, and PGI-quality Sicilian red orange.

Afterwards, relax with some local delicacies in the shade of the spectacular Orti di San Giorgio, a collection of seven gardens amidst light and beauty, providing a stunning backdrop for our lunch.

We then head to Piazza Armerina to visit the extraordinary Villa Romana del Casale, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This grand villa, once owned by a member of the Roman Senatorial aristocracy, houses remarkable polychrome mosaics depicting mythological and historical scenes, as well as hunting and entertainment activities. Finally, we depart for Agrigento, where dinner and an overnight stay await us at the hotel.

Agrigento - Marsala - Palermo. This morning, we will explore Agrigento, home to the renowned Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once praised by Pindar as "the most beautiful city of mortals," Agrigento was among the wealthiest ancient Greek cities. We will marvel at its magnificent 5th-century Doric temples nestled among almond trees, including the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, and the Temple of Heracles.

Next, we journey to Marsala, a charming town famous for being the landing site of Garibaldi in May 1860. After a leisurely walk through the city centre, we will enjoy a guided tour of the Florio Cellars. We'll start at the striking giant vats from the late 19th century, still used to refine Marsala wine. The tour continues through the three impressive barrel chambers, each stretching 165 metres under a series of 104 arches, housing approximately 5.5 million litres of wine. After a fascinating thirty-minute tour of these historic cellars, we will reach the Donna Franca and Duca Enrico tasting rooms for a light lunch and a memorable wine tasting experience.

Our day continues along the famous Salt Road, between Trapani and Marsala. This area is renowned for its ancient salt-extracting industry, one of the oldest in the world, and is now protected for its rich birdlife and industrial heritage. We then transfer to Palermo, where we check into the hotel.

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.

Palermo - Trapani - Favignana. From today, your arrangements will be private. After breakfast at the hotel, you will transfer to Trapani, where you will board a hydrofoil to Favignana. As the largest and most significant of the Aegadian Islands, Favignana is renowned for its butterfly-like shape. You will have the afternoon free to explore at your leisure. In the evening, dinner is included at the hotel.

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

Your day begins with a departure from Favignana harbour for a leisurely circumnavigation of the island. As you sail, learn about the influential Florio family, making stops in some of the island’s most stunning bays for a swim.

The first port of call is Cala Rossa, renowned for its dramatic tuff caves set against brilliant blue waters. Next, visit Bue Marino and Cala Azzurra, celebrated for their white sandy beaches and some of the clearest waters on the island, where you can enjoy some free time swimming.

On reaching the southern side, around Marasolo and Preveto, pause for a typical lunch served on board, giving you the chance to relax or explore the enchanting coves through snorkelling. In the afternoon, you head to Cala Rotonda for a refreshing swim, accompanied by coffee and pastries. The day concludes with a final swim at Cala del Pozzo before you return to Favignana. Dinner is included back at the hotel.

Today is free for you to explore this charming island at your own pace. Wander through the two city squares and admire the traditional Mediterranean architecture, known for its white walls and vibrant blue or green windows. As you head towards the waterfront, you'll be greeted by picturesque scenes reminiscent of a postcard. Favignana’s harbour exudes a vintage charm, with ancient boats, nets, and anchors creating a magical atmosphere.

Take the opportunity to swim in one of the island’s beautiful coves, or consider a boat excursion to Levanzo. After a day exploring your way, enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Favignana - Trapani. After breakfast and a leisurely morning, you check out and are transferred back to Trapani. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Trapani's charming city centre. Known as the "City of 100 Churches," Trapani boasts a remarkable collection of local coral art. Historically significant, the city is mentioned in Virgil's Aeneid and has connections to Carthage, a formidable rival of ancient Rome. Over the centuries, Trapani has been influenced by both Roman and Spanish rule, creating a unique cultural blend. Enjoy wandering through its picturesque alleys and soak in the city's Arab-inspired ambience. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Your tour ends after breakfast and hotel check out. There is no included transfer, so you can make your own way to the airport or your next destination.