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Sicily Uncovered: Ancient Wonders & Authentic Flavours

Highlights

Discover Sicily’s UNESCO treasures, Mount Etna, authentic food experiences on one unforgettable Southern Italy journey.

At a Glance

A 8-day journey through Sicily, combining ancient archaeological treasures, medieval hilltop towns, local wine and food experiences, Baroque cities and the dramatic landscapes of Mount Etna.

Price

From $ 4,368 per person

Every journey is tailor-made and can be personalised to your travel style, preferred accommodation and budget.

All highlights

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Southern Italy, where ancient civilisations, spectacular landscapes and authentic flavours come together to create an experience rich in culture and discovery.

Your adventure begins in Sicily, an island shaped by centuries of Greek, Roman, Arab and Norman influences. Wander through the vibrant streets of Palermo, discover the medieval charm of Erice, and explore the vineyards, salt pans and culinary traditions of Marsala. Step back in time at Segesta and the magnificent Valley of the Temples, two of Sicily’s most remarkable archaeological treasures.

As you travel across the island, uncover the elegant Baroque cities of Syracuse, Ortigia and Ragusa, where history, architecture and local traditions intertwine. Enjoy authentic experiences that connect you with Sicilian culture, from discovering bustling local markets to sharing a traditional cooking experience in the countryside. Venture onto the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, and admire its dramatic lunar landscapes with an expert guide.

The journey continues across the Adriatic to Puglia, a region renowned for its whitewashed villages, crystal-clear coastline and relaxed way of life. Explore the historic heart of Bari, discover the iconic trulli of Alberobello, wander the charming streets of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, and marvel at the extraordinary cave dwellings of Matera. Complete your Southern Italian escape with a private catamaran cruise, offering a unique perspective on one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines.

Combining ancient wonders, authentic culinary experiences, breathtaking scenery and carefully curated encounters with local culture, The Great Sicilian Journey: Ancient Wonders & Authentic Flavours offers an immersive exploration of the very best of Southern Italy.

Valley of the Temples in Agrigento Sicily with ancient Greek temples

Ancient Greek Temple of Segesta in Sicily surrounded by rolling Mediterranean hills

Erice and Marsala private tour from Palermo with Sicilian wine tasting

Greek Theatre of Syracuse in Sicily and historic Baroque centre of Catania

Sicilian cooking class near Ragusa with traditional recipes and local family

Mount Etna 4x4 tour in Sicily with volcanic craters and lunar landscapes

Itinerary

Palermo Sicily cityscape and historic architecture in Sicily's vibrant capital

Day 1 - Welcome to Sicily

Arrive in Palermo and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. Settle in and begin discovering the unique atmosphere of Sicily's vibrant capital at your own pace.

Day 2 - Erice, Marsala & Sicily's Flavours

Have you already visited the capital of Sicily and are now looking for an out-of-town adventure? This private tour to Erice and Marsala with lunch and wine tastings, with departing from Palermo is the one for you!

Sicily is full of hidden gems to explore, in fact, Erice and Marsala are no different. Just a one-hour drive from Palermo, you'll have a unique experience, with strolls through medieval alleys and glimpses, tastings of local specialties, and exploring magical places like the salt route.

Travel through western Sicily to the medieval hilltop town of Erice before exploring the famous salt pans and wine-producing region of Marsala. Enjoy local tastings and discover a side of Sicily rich in history, tradition and gastronomy.

Day 3 - Segesta & The Western Coast

Collect your rental car and continue through western Sicily. Visit the impressive archaeological site of Segesta, where a remarkably preserved Greek temple stands amid beautiful rolling landscapes.

A very important Elymian political centre together with Eryx (Erice), Segesta ‘s monumentality is surrounded by a hilly Mediterranean landscape and panoramas of striking beauty
On the site, the imposing and still visible monuments reveal the key role that Segesta played in Sicily during the centuries of Greek and Punic occupation.

Day 4 - Valley of the Temples

Explore Agrigento's Valley of the Temples, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean and a remarkable testament to Sicily's Greek heritage.

Discovering the Valley of the Temples, one of the most extensive, representative, and best-preserved archaeological sites of classical Greek civilization, granted Unesco World Heritage status in 1997.

Day 5 - Syracuse, Ortigia & Sicilian Traditions

Discover Syracuse and the island of Ortigia aboard a traditional Ape Calessino. Later, head into the countryside near Ragusa for a hands-on Sicilian cooking experience, followed by a meal inspired by local family recipes.

Explore Syracuse and the Baroque island of Ortigia in a fun way with a private tour on board an Ape Calessino. Discover San Giovanni's Catacombs, Castello Maniace, the folklore market, and more.

Ragusa: Sicilian cooking workshop in the countryside
Learn to cook traditional Sicilian recipes in a family home, then enjoy a shared meal with aperitivo, wine and dessert surrounded by nature. A relaxed experience with optional access to the pool.

Step into a slower rhythm of life in the Sicilian countryside, be welcomed like family, and guided through traditional recipes passed down with care.

This isn’t a formal cooking class — it’s a relaxed, soulful experience that invites you to cook, connect, and savour every moment.

Day 6 - Neapolis & Catania

En route to Catania, visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the famous Greek Theatre of Syracuse. Continue to Catania and explore its elegant Baroque centre with a guided walking tour.

The Greek Theatre of Syracuse is an ancient theatre located in the archaeological park of Neapolis in Syracuse, Sicily. Originally built in the 5th century BC and later rebuilt in the 3rd century BC, it is one of the largest and best-preserved Greek theatres in the world.

Carved directly into the hillside of Mount Temenite, the theatre was used for dramatic performances, political gatherings, and public events in ancient times. Today, it is still active and hosts classical theatre festivals, especially the famous performances organized by the INDA Foundation.

Explore the heart of Catania with a guided tour and experience the city like a local. Marvel at landmarks like the Catania Cathedral, Ursino Castle, and the Monastery of San Nicolò l'Arena.

Uncover the vibrant soul of Catania with a private or group tour guided by a local, immersing yourself in the city's rich tapestry of history and culture.

Day 7 - Mount Etna Adventure

Experience the extraordinary landscapes of Mount Etna. Travel by 4x4 to the upper slopes of Europe's highest active volcano and discover its fascinating geology alongside local Sicilian specialities.

Experience the lunar landscapes of Mount Etna with an exclusive, tailor-made private service. Enjoy a stress-free journey with private pick-up from Taormina, Catania, or your cruise port. You will ascend to 9,800 feet (3,000 meters) aboard powerful 4x4 mountain shuttles to explore the massive craters of the 2002 eruption, led by a certified volcanologist guide.

Sicily coastline and Mediterranean landscape at the end of a memorable Italian journey

Day 8 - Time to say Goodbye !

After eight unforgettable days discovering Sicily's ancient treasures, vibrant cities, dramatic landscapes and authentic culinary traditions, it's time to bid farewell to the island.

Services

Included:

accommodation
transportation
visits
immersive experiences
personal crafting
unique roadbook creation
assistance on the ground (meals & flights excluded)

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Marianna Leccese

travel expert: Italy

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