Best of Sicily
10 Days Starting in Catania, Italy and ending in Taormina, Italy
Visiting: Catania, Syracuse, Agrigento, Palermo, Mount Etna, Taormina
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1142
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:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Sicily with the "Best of Sicily" tour, a delightful exploration tailored for food and wine enthusiasts. This immersive experience offers a 9-night stay in luxurious 4-star hotels across Catania, Ragusa, Agrigento, Palermo, and Taormina. Accompanied by a multilingual tour leader, you'll traverse the island's rich cultural tapestry, savoring daily breakfasts and eight exquisite meals that highlight traditional Italian and Sicilian flavors. Highlights include a chocolate tasting in Modica, wine sampling in Marsala, and a honey factory visit near Mount Etna. Discover the architectural marvels of Syracuse, Noto, and the Valley of the Temples, and enjoy leisure time in the picturesque towns of Cefalù and Taormina. With comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and insightful local guides, this tour promises an unforgettable Sicilian adventure.
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
Location: Mount Etna
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Diodoro, Taormina, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin your day with a hotel breakfast, then set out for a historic fishmonger visit before reaching Europe's tallest active volcano, Mount Etna (3,350 m), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Etna Park spans 59,000 hectares, hosting diverse flora and protected species. The captivating landscapes unfold near Rifugio Sapienza. Explore the dormant volcanic cones of Crateri Silvestri, dating back to 1888, surrounded by recent lava flows. Enjoy a unique vista extending to the Aeolian Islands and Calabria.Next, visit a beekeeping farm for a honey extraction demonstration and sample local products. Continue to Taormina, renowned for its natural beauty, marine wonders, and historic sites. Visit the Greco-Roman theatre with its awe-inspiring view of Naxos Bay. The day concludes with a scenic panorama of the Riviera dei Ciclopi. Rest at your Taormina hotel for the night, and savor a delightful dinner.
Day 8 : Taormina
Location: Taormina
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Diodoro, Taormina, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day with a hotel breakfast. Today is a free day for you to explore the charming town of Taormina. Wander through the medieval Borgo, taking in the historical monuments and immersing yourself in the vibrant Mediterranean colors and scents. You have the option to relax by the sea or indulge in some shopping for local artisanal products.As a special recommendation, consider a visit to Isola Bella, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean" due to its breathtaking location and lush vegetation.Return to your hotel in Taormina for a comfortable night's rest. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner.
Day 9 : Taormina > Castelmola > Savoca > Taormina
Location: Taormina
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Diodoro, Taormina, or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a journey to Casteldimola, a picturesque village renowned for its narrow medieval streets, charming squares, and ancient churches. It proudly holds the title of "Borghi più belli d'Italia" (One of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy). Take in the Greco-Byzantine style ruins of the Castle of Mola, a testament to the area's rich history.Continue your adventure to Savoca, a town that seamlessly blends medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. It's a place steeped in cinematic history, as it served as the backdrop for Francis Ford Coppola's film The Godfather. As you explore, don't miss the chance to pause in front of the iconic "Vitelli" bar featured in the movie.After your exploration, return to Taormina, where the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 10 : Taormina Departure
Location: Taormina
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 Catania airport. Safe travels!
What's Included
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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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Transportation
Enjoy comfortable and air-conditioned transportation by bus from the second day to the ninth day, facilitating smooth and efficient travel between destinations.
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Local Guides
Local guides or audio guides will be available when necessary, enhancing your understanding of specific sites and locations.
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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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Wine Tasting 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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Honey Factory Visit
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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Exploration of Sicilian Cities
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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Airfare
International or domestic airfare is not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities to guides and drivers are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Beverages and Additional Meals
Beverages during meals and additional meals when not mentioned on the itinerary are not included.
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Entrance Fees
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 included.
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably and efficiently between destinations with air-conditioned bus transportation from the second to the ninth day, ensuring smooth travel across Sicily's captivating cities, towns, and archaeological sites.
Accommodation
Enjoy a 9-night stay in 4-star hotels across Sicily, including Il Principe Hotel in Catania, Hotel Mediterraneo Palace in Ragusa, Baia Di Ulisse Wellness & Spa in Agrigento, Mercure Palermo Centro in Palermo, and Hotel Villa Diodoro in Taormina, 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 9-night stay in 4-star hotels, ensuring both comfort and quality throughout your journey.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, daily breakfasts and 8 meals showcasing traditional Italian and Sicilian flavors are included. Additionally, there are specific meals such as a light lunch in Modica and a lunch in Marsala.
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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 will ensure seamless communication and provide insightful commentary.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Comfortable and air-conditioned transportation by bus is provided from the second day to the ninth 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 chocolate tasting in Modica, a wine tasting in Marsala, a tasting session of Sicilian products in Palermo, and a granita and brioche tasting in Catania.
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Is there any free time during the tour to explore on my own?
Yes, on the eighth day, you have a free day to explore the charming town of Taormina at your leisure.
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What are some of the key sites visited during the tour?
The tour visits several key sites including the Archaeological Park of Neapolis in Syracuse, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the Arab-Norman Cathedral in Monreale, and the Greco-Roman theatre in Taormina.
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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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Free Date Changes
Omega Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Omega Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform omega tours, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Omega Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 CAD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of omega tours charges.
Up to 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.