Sicilia Bella

Sicily is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient civilisations, charming coastal towns, and vibrant cultural traditions come together in one unforgettable journey. From the magnificent Greek and Roman archaeological treasures of Siracusa, Piazza Armerina and Agrigento to the colourful streets of Palermo and the picturesque villages overlooking the Ionian Sea, this tour showcases the island's rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic Italian charm. Discover UNESCO-listed sites, Norman masterpieces, lively local markets, and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery as you explore the very best of Sicily.

HIGHLIGHTS

Siracusa & Ortigia: Visit the Neapolis Archaeological Park with its impressive Greek Theatre and explore the historic centre of Ortigia.

Piazza Armerina: Discover the UNESCO-listed Villa Romana del Casale and its world-famous Roman mosaics.

Agrigento: Enjoy a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples, one of the Mediterranean's most important archaeological sites.

Monreale & Palermo: Explore the magnificent Norman Cathedral of Monreale and discover the historic treasures and lively markets of Palermo.

Cefalù: Visit the charming coastal town renowned for its medieval character and impressive Norman cathedral.

1 giorno: CATANIA ARRIVAL

Upon arrival at Catania Airport, transfer to the hotel in the Catania area. Meet your tour leader at the hotel before dinner.

Overnight in Catania.

2 giorno: CATANIA – SIRACUSA – ORTIGIA – CATANIA (140km – 2hrs)

After breakfast, depart by coach for Siracusa and enjoy a guided visit of the Neapolis archaeological site, once the most important Greek settlement in Sicily and the birthplace of the famous physicist Archimedes in 287 BC. Highlights include the impressive Greek Theatre, carved partly into the rock and offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape.

Continue with a stroll through the historic centre of Ortigia, where you will see the Cathedral, the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Artemis and the Roman Amphitheatre before returning to the hotel.

Overnight in Catania.

3 giorno: CATANIA – PIAZZA ARMERINA – AGRIGENTO (220km – 3.5hrs)

After breakfast, depart for Piazza Armerina and visit the famous Roman Villa del Casale. The remarkable floor mosaics, including the hunting scenes and the renowned “Girls in Bikini”, are among the finest examples of Roman art.

Continue to Agrigento for a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples. The archaeological site features some of the best-preserved Greek temples outside Greece. Walk through the site and admire its most important monuments, including the Temple of Hercules.

Overnight in Agrigento.

4 giorno: AGRIGENTO – CORLEONE – PALERMO (170km – 3hrs)

After breakfast, depart for Palermo with a stop in Corleone, one of Sicily’s most fascinating towns. Beyond its connection to the fictional story of The Godfather, Corleone is known for its churches, waterfalls, traditions and cultural heritage. Continue to Palermo.

Overnight in Palermo.

5 giorno: PALERMO – MONREALE – PALERMO (25km – 1hr)

After breakfast, travel to Monreale to visit its world-famous cathedral, one of the finest Norman monuments in Sicily and an outstanding example of medieval architecture. Following the guided visit of the cathedral and its cloisters, drive back to Palermo.

Discover the city’s rich heritage, including views of the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel from the outside. In the historic centre, visit the lively Vucciria Market and enjoy the opportunity to sample some traditional Palermo street food.

The afternoon is at leisure to further explore Palermo, including landmarks such as San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Quattro Canti, the Pretoria Fountain, Martorana Church and Teatro Massimo, or simply relax with a traditional granita or mulberry ice cream.

Dinner at leisure.

Overnight in Palermo.

6 giorno: PALERMO – CEFALÙ – SAVOCA – LETOJANNI/CATANIA (290km – 5hrs)

Continue along Sicily’s northern coast to Cefalù, a charming fishing town known for its narrow streets, Baroque churches, ancient city walls and magnificent 12th-century cathedral.

Proceed to Savoca, a picturesque hilltop village famous for being one of the filming locations of The Godfather. Surrounded by citrus groves, vineyards and woodlands, the town offers spectacular views towards the Gulf of Taormina. Enjoy a coffee or ice cream at the historic Bar Vitelli before continuing to Letojanni or Catania.

Overnight in Letojanni or Catania.

7 giorno: LETOJANNI/CATANIA

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax and explore independently.

Overnight in Letojanni or Catania.

8 giorno: LETOJANNI/CATANIA DEPARTURE (65km – 1hr)

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to Catania Airport for your departure flight.

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 religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.