Classical Sicily
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour of Sicily, where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture converge. From the historic city of Syracusa to the charming coastal town of Giardini Naxos, each day offers a unique blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, savor authentic Sicilian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the island's rich heritage. With comfortable accommodations and expert local guides, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Sicily's most iconic destinations. Whether you're wandering through ancient ruins, enjoying breathtaking views from hilltop towns, or indulging in local delicacies, this tour offers an enriching experience for every traveler.
Included
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
7 Breakfasts
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Bus
7 nights in hand-picked hotels.
hotel: 7 night(s);
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Syracusa
- Syracuse - Arrival day
- More
- Cathedral of Syracuse
- Artemision
- More
Begin your Sicilian adventure in the historic city of Syracusa, once the largest city in the ancient world. Arrive at your leisure and join your tour leader for a welcome meeting at 7 PM. If you arrive early, explore the enchanting Ortygia Island, where the Artemis Fountain and Baroque Cathedral are beautifully illuminated at night. Indulge in authentic Sicilian cuisine and wine, savoring dishes like pasta with sardines or aubergine stew. Accommodation is provided at a local hotel (or similar), ensuring a comfortable start to your journey.
Day 2 – Day 2: Explore Syracusa and Piazza Armerina
- Syracuse
- Piazza Armerina
- More
- Mercato
- Fonte Ciane
- Museum of the Sea
- Neapolis Archaeological Park
- Netum
- More
Embark on a journey through history at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, where a local guide will reveal the secrets of the Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheatre. Afterward, enjoy free time on Ortygia Island, exploring landmarks like the Fonte of Aretusa and Maniace Castle. Savor Sicilian delicacies such as cannolo and arancini. In the afternoon, travel to the charming town of Piazza Armerina, where you'll dine in family-run restaurants and experience local life. Accommodation is provided in Piazza Armerina (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: Discover Piazza Armerina and Agrigento
- Piazza Armerina
- Marsala
- More
- Tempio Di Zeus Olympios
- Valle dei Templi
- Villa Romana del Casale
- Temple of Heracles
- More
Begin your day with a visit to the Villa Romana del Casale, where you'll marvel at the exquisite Roman mosaics. Continue to Agrigento, exploring the Valley of the Temples with its awe-inspiring structures like the Temple of Zeus and Temple of Concord. In the evening, travel to Marsala, where you'll enjoy a guided walk through the old town. Accommodation is provided in Marsala (or similar), offering a restful night after a day of exploration.
Day 4 – Day 4: Enchanting Erice and Ancient Segesta
- Calatafimi Segesta
- Marsala
- Erice
- More
- Salt Museum
- Castello Arabo Normanno
- Cala Ofelia
- Torre Bennistra
- Piazza Madrice
- More
Ascend to the medieval town of Erice, where you'll wander through cobbled streets and visit landmarks like the Castello di Venere and Garden of Balio. In the afternoon, explore the ancient site of Segesta, home to the impressive Doric Temple and amphitheatre. Conclude your day with a drive to Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital, where you'll have the evening to explore at your leisure. Accommodation is provided in Palermo (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Norman Heritage in Palermo and Monreale
Day 5: Norman Heritage in Palermo and Monreale
- Palazzo Abatellis
- Palermo Cathedral
- More
Delve into Sicily's Norman past with a guided visit to the Palatine Chapel in Palermo, adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics. Journey to Monreale to explore its majestic cathedral, renowned for its intricate mosaics and Romanesque cloisters. Return to Palermo for an afternoon of leisure, where you can explore the city's diverse cultural offerings. Accommodation is provided in Palermo (or similar), allowing you to unwind after a day of discovery.
Day 6 – Day 6: Coastal Charm in Cefalu and Giardini Naxos
- Giardini-Naxos
- Cefalù
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- Cathedral of Cefalù
- Castello di Cefalù
- Porta della Pescara (Porta Marina)
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Travel along Sicily's northern coast to the picturesque town of Cefalu, where you can explore the Norman Cathedral or hike to the Temple of Diana for breathtaking views. Continue to Giardini Naxos, a quaint fishing village nestled by the sea, where you'll spend the next two nights. Relax by the shore and savor fresh seafood and gelato. Accommodation is provided in Giardini Naxos (or similar), offering a tranquil retreat.
Day 7 – Day 7: Majestic Mount Etna and Charming Taormina
- Taormina
- Giardini-Naxos
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- Greek - Roman theatre
- Piano Provenzana
- Roman Odeon
- Monti Sartorius
- Basilica of St. Nicholas of Bari
- More
Embark on an adventure to Mount Etna, exploring its craters and lava fields. At Rifugio Sapienza, you can opt for a cable car ride for stunning views. Later, visit Taormina, Sicily's renowned resort town, where you'll explore the Greek Theatre and Roman Odeon. Enjoy free time to wander through the town's medieval streets and gardens. Return to Giardini Naxos for the evening, where accommodation is provided (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Giardini Naxos
- Giardini-Naxos - Departure day
- More
Conclude your Sicilian journey with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Giardini Naxos. With no scheduled activities, you are free to depart at your convenience. For those with later flights, luggage storage is available at the hotel. If you require an airport transfer, arrangements can be made for a drive to Catania Fontanarossa Airport, approximately one hour away.
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