FLY & DRIVE: Sicilia

Arrival at Catania Airport. After collecting the rental car, drive to the hotel.

Hotel check-in and free day for a first independent approach to the city.

Overnight in Catania

Located at the foot of Mount Etna and facing the Ionian Sea, Catania is a city of contrasts: dark due to lava stone, bright under the sun, ancient and modern, baroque and popular. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surprises visitors with majestic churches, bustling markets, Roman ruins and palaces blackened by volcanic stone.

The symbol of the city is the lava-stone elephant, known as “Liotru”, standing in Piazza Duomo.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Catania’s historic center

An immersion into the vibrant heart of Catania. With a local guide, discover the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the elephant symbol of the city, and the most evocative corners among baroque palaces, markets and Roman remains.

Street food tour in Catania with local guide

A flavorful route through the city’s historic markets and squares. Taste crispy arancini, cipolline, cartocciate and traditional sweets. A fun and informal way to discover Catanese gastronomic traditions.

Overnight in Catania

Day dedicated to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, dominating Eastern Sicily with its spectacular and ever-changing landscapes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a natural wonder that fascinates with its strength and beauty.

Ascending its slopes, the scenery changes from fertile vineyards and citrus groves to lush forests, and finally to lunar landscapes of lava flows and smoking craters.

Recommended places and suggested activities:

Jeep excursion on Mount Etna

An adventure among lunar landscapes and extinct craters of the highest active volcano in Europe. Accompanied by an expert guide, travel along paths over lava flows and discover geological history and legends of Mount Etna, with spectacular panoramic views.

Etna DOC wine tasting at a winery with typical lunch

Guided visit to vineyards and wineries located on the slopes of Mount Etna. Taste local wines produced on volcanic soil and enjoy a lunch featuring typical products. A perfect combination of nature, wine and tradition.

Overnight in Catania

Excursion to Taormina, a jewel suspended between sky and sea, offering one of the most spectacular views in Italy. Its Greek origins are reflected in the impressive Ancient Theatre, still used today for performances. Walking along Corso Umberto, an atmosphere of timeless elegance unfolds among boutiques, panoramic terraces and postcard-like views. At the foot of the promontory, Isola Bella offers coves and crystal-clear waters for relaxation.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Taormina and the Ancient Theatre

Experience the magic of Taormina with a guide who will lead you through flower-filled gardens, historic alleyways and the magnificent Greek theatre with views of Mount Etna and the sea. Discover its millennia-old history between myth and landscape.

Return to Catania.

Overnight in Catania

Departure by car to Syracuse. Hotel check-in.

A millennia-old city founded by the Greeks and dearly associated with Archimedes, Syracuse enchants visitors with its dual soul: on one side, the vast archaeological park with Greek theatres, rock-cut tombs and the famous Ear of Dionysius; on the other, the refined island of Ortigia, connected to the mainland by two bridges, where temples turned into churches, noble palaces and lively alleyways filled with market scents create a unique atmosphere.

Free time for independent exploration.

Overnight in Syracuse

Day dedicated to discovering Syracuse and Ortigia.

Suggested experiences:

Guided tour of Syracuse

A fascinating journey through one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, where myth, art and architecture intertwine. With an expert guide, visit the archaeological area with the grand Greek Theatre and the mysterious Ear of Dionysius, then continue into the baroque elegance of Ortigia, with its squares, historic alleyways and spectacular sea views.

Guided visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Park

A journey through time among the archaeological treasures of Syracuse: the perfectly preserved Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, the Latomiae and the Roman Amphitheatre. A guide will reveal myths, wars and civilizations that shaped Sicily.

Boat tour along the coast of Ortigia

Sail through the calm waters of Syracuse’s protected marine area, enjoying an aperitif with local products at sunset. Admire historical monuments and unspoiled nature from the sea in a suggestive and romantic atmosphere.

Street food tour in Ortigia

Discover the authentic flavors of Syracuse with a guided visit through Ortigia’s historic markets and squares. Taste arancini, panelle sandwiches, local cheeses, granitas and other typical delicacies, while listening to stories and curiosities about the baroque heart of the city.

Cooking class in Syracuse

Join a local chef for an authentic culinary experience. Learn to prepare traditional dishes such as handmade pasta, caponata or cannoli using fresh ingredients from the market. At the end, enjoy lunch featuring your own creations accompanied by local wine.

Overnight in Syracuse

Free day to be organized independently, dedicated to discovering the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Recommended places and suggested activities:

Noto

A baroque jewel in the heart of the Val di Noto. Rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, Noto is a triumph of harmony and golden limestone. The scenic Via Nicolaci with its sculpted balconies, the cathedral atop its grand staircase, and pastry shops offering granitas and almond sweets all contribute to a poetic and welcoming atmosphere.

• Guided tour of Noto’s baroque center
• Walk among the golden façades of palaces and churches, discovering the secrets that have made Noto a symbol of Sicilian baroque.
• Baroque sweets and almond tasting
• Taste a selection of traditional sweets made with almonds, pistachios and citrus fruits, accompanied by a glass of Moscato or Nero d’Avola.
• E-bike tour through the countryside of Noto
• Cycle among olive groves, almond trees and ancient Sicilian farmhouses with an expert guide. Enjoy an active experience with stops to taste local products.

Ragusa

Ragusa, the baroque heart of the Val di Noto, is a city that enchants with its dual soul: Ragusa Superiore, elegant and modern, and Ragusa Ibla, a labyrinth of alleyways, stairways and baroque palaces seemingly suspended in time.

• Guided walking tour of Ragusa Ibla
• A fascinating walking tour through the evocative alleyways of Ragusa Ibla, discovering elegant noble palaces and splendid baroque churches. The guide will enrich the visit with stories, curiosities and anecdotes that bring the authentic atmosphere of this Sicilian gem to life.
• Wine tour among the vineyards of Ragusa
• An immersive experience in the heart of Sicilian winemaking tradition: walk through the vineyards, meet local producers and enjoy tastings of local labels, including the prestigious Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG, accompanied by typical products that enhance the flavors of the region.

Return to Syracuse.

Overnight in Syracuse

Departure by car to the airport.

Return of the rental vehicle and boarding of the return flight.