Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating self-drive journey through Sicily with our Mini Tour of Sicily. This cultural adventure begins in Palermo, where you'll explore the golden Capella Palatina and the architectural marvels of the Cathedral. Discover the UNESCO-listed Cattedrale di Monreale and the charming fishing town of Cefalu. Continue to Catania, nestled at the foot of Mt. Etna, and explore its vibrant Piazza del Duomo. In Taormina, visit the stunning Greek theatre and savor the local delicacy, "granita with brioche." Enjoy a wine tasting on Mt. Etna's slopes, all while staying in superior 4-star accommodations. With a 5-day car hire included, this tour offers the freedom to explore Sicily's rich history and breathtaking landscapes at your own pace. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL PALERMO
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Palermo Centro or similar 4*
Arrive at Palermo Airport and pick up the car. Reach your hotel in Palermo and check in. In the afternoon we suggest visiting Palermo. Begin with the golden interior of the Capella Palatina, a spectacular private chapel built by the Norman King Roger II and decorated with ornate mosaics. Featuring both Arab and Byzantine influences, this chapel is one of Palermo’s most spectacular jewels. As you continue, make your way to the Cathedral, a real amalgam of architectural styles, it’s believed that even before the existing cathedral was created, the site was previously home to a Roman temple, a Byzantine Basilica and later even a mosque. Conclude your tour with a visit to the exquisite La Martorana Church, a stunning example of Norman architecture enriched with magnificent mosaics. Let the serene beauty of this historic church be the perfect finale to your journey.Overnight in Palermo. ...more ...less
Day 2 : PALERMO – MONREALE – PALERMO (20km – 1hr)
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Palermo Centro or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a tasty breakfast, we suggest visiting Monreale. Monreale is the house of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: the glorious Cattedrale di Monreale. The cathedral is perched on a hilltop vantage point in the city. Explore the stunning interior as well as venture into the peaceful confines of the cloisters where you’ll find more examples of the stunning Arab-influenced artistry so often featured in Sicily’s Norman buildings. Take a moment to wander into the peaceful cloisters, a serene space that provides yet another glimpse of the intricate craftsmanship and artistry of the era. If the cathedral’s clock tower is open, seize the opportunity to climb the stairs of the cathedral’s clock tower for some incredible views. After the visit you can stop to enjoy a coffee in one of the little cafes lining the square around the cathedral before leaving the city.Overnight in Palermo.
Day 3 : PALERMO – CATANIA (210km – 2.5hrs)
Location: Catania
Accommodation Name: Hotel NH Catania Centro or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up to a rich breakfast at the hotel. We suggest visiting Cefalu, a small fishing town with enchanting photographic points of interest, beautiful shops and numerous restaurants. For hiking lovers, it’s also recommended to visit La Rocca di Cefalù, the cliff that overlooks the city and offers spectacular views. The hike to the top is both rewarding and scenic, offering panoramic views of the coastline, the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the historic rooftops of Cefalù. Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating ruins, such as the ancient Temple of Diana, blending nature and history in a unique experience. In the afternoon, reach your next hotel in Catania.Overnight in Catania.
Day 4 : CATANIA – TAORMINA – MT ETNA – CATANIA (150km – 3hrs)
Location: Catania
Accommodation Name: Hotel NH Catania Centro or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Have a delicious breakfast at the hotel and make your own way to Taormina. When visiting the town, we suggest exploring some of its most iconic highlights. Start with the Greek Theatre, an ancient amphitheater that not only showcases stunning architecture but also offers breathtaking views of the sea and Mount Etna. Nearby, you’ll find the Roman Odeon, a smaller yet equally intriguing historical site. Take some time to visit Piazza IX Aprile, a charming square known for its incredible panoramic views and lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to stop by the Duomo, a beautiful cathedral adorned with impressive mosaics and rich history. For a classic Sicilian treat, we recommend trying the famous “granita with brioche” at one of the city’s oldest and most renowned bars. It’s the perfect way to refresh and enjoy local flavors. For lunch, consider heading to a local winery on the slopes of Mount Etna, where you can indulge in traditional Sicilian cuisine paired with an exceptional wine tasting. The views from the winery, combined with the rich flavors, make it a truly unforgettable experience.Overnight in Catania.
Day 5 : CATANIA DEPARTURE
Location: Catania
Meals Included: Breakfast
Have your last Sicilian breakfast before having a quick tour of Catania city centre. Reach the Catania or Palermo Airport to drop off the car according to your flight departure.
What's Included
ACCOMMODATION:
- 4 night’s accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Palermo
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel NH Palermo or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Catania
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel NH Catania Centro or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Car Group B = Lancia Ypsilon
MEALS:
- 4 Breakfasts
CAR HIRE:
- 5-day car hire
- Pick-up and drop-off from Palermo or Catania Airport
- Unlimited mileage
- All insurances: SCDW, PAI, TP
- Tax
- Domestic one-way fee (except to/from Sardinia or Sicily)
- Airport and railway surcharge
- Road Tax (VRF)
- Additional driver
- Grace period 29 minutes
What's Not Included
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Drinks During Meals
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours (if any) are not included.
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City Tax
City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. are not included.
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Car Hire Exclusions
Fuel and refuelling charge, windscreen protection (WDW), administration fee (in case of damage, fines, etc), road side safety net (RSN), delivery and collection, and no show fee are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Italy. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Palermo
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mercure Palermo Centro or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Catania
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel NH Catania Centro or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group B = Lancia Ypsilon
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes a 5-day car hire with unlimited mileage, all necessary insurances, and pick-up/drop-off from Palermo or Catania Airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights of superior accommodation at Hotel Mercure Palermo Centro and Hotel NH Catania Centro, both rated 4 stars, offering comfort and convenience in Palermo and Catania.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Palermo
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel NH Palermo or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Catania
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel NH Catania Centro or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
- Car Group B = Lancia Ypsilon
Check out our Q&As
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What type of guide will be available during the tour?
The tour will be operated with a private local guide who speaks English, Spanish, French, German, or Italian on Days 1, 2, and 4.
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What kind of car will be provided for the self-drive tour?
A Lancia Ypsilon from Car Group B will be provided for the self-drive tour.
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Are there any meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes 4 breakfasts, a granita and brioche tasting on Day 4, and a lunch with wine tasting on Day 4.
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What are the accommodation options during the tour?
For Days 1-2 in Palermo, you will stay at Hotel Mercure Palermo Centro or a similar 4-star hotel. For Days 3-4 in Catania, you will stay at Hotel NH Catania Centro or a similar 4-star hotel.
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What entrance fees and activities are included in the tour?
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included, such as the Palermo guided tour (including entrance to Cappella Palatina and Martorana Church) on Day 1, Monreale guided tour (including entrance to Monreale Cathedral) on Day 2, and Taormina guided tour (including entrance to the Greek Theatre) on Day 4. ...more ...less
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What is the car hire policy for the tour?
The car hire includes 5-day car hire with pick-up and drop-off from Palermo or Catania Airport, unlimited mileage, all insurances (SCDW, PAI, TP), tax, domestic one-way fee (except to/from Sardinia or Sicily), airport and railway surcharge, road tax (VRF), additional driver, and a grace period of 29 minutes.
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What is the itinerary for the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive at Palermo Airport, pick up the car, and check into your hotel in Palermo. In the afternoon, you will meet your private guide at the hotel for a tour of the historical city center of Palermo, including visits to the Capella Palatina, the Cathedral, and La Martorana Church.
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What activities are planned for the second day of the tour?
On the second day, after breakfast, you will reach Monreale where your guide will take you to explore the Cattedrale di Monreale and its cloisters. You may also have the opportunity to climb the cathedral's clock tower for incredible views.
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What can I do on the third day of the tour?
The third day is a day at leisure. It is suggested to visit Cefalu, a small fishing town with beautiful shops and numerous restaurants. For hiking lovers, visiting La Rocca di Cefalù is recommended. In the afternoon, you will reach your next hotel in Catania.
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What is included in the tour of Taormina on the fourth day?
On the fourth day, you will have a guided tour of Taormina, including visits to the Greek theatre, ancient Roman Odeon, Piazza IX Aprile, and the Duomo. You will also taste the famous 'granita with brioche' and have lunch with wine tasting at a local winery on Mt. Etna.
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What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended. Visitors should avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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Low Deposit
Tui Italia requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of tui italia charges.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Mini Tour of Sicily, Self-drive
5 Days Starting in Palermo, Italy and ending in Catania, Italy
Visiting: Palermo, Catania
Tour operator:
Tour code:
785657
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Age range:
21-80
