Magical Sicily & Aeolian Islands - 9 Days
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Sicily. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights. From the vibrant streets of Palermo and Catania to the serene beauty of the Aeolian Islands, every day brings a new adventure. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Monreale's Norman Cathedral, explore the medieval town of Cefalù, ascend Europe's highest volcano, Mount Etna, and wander through the charming streets of Taormina. The tour also includes a visit to the historic fish market in Catania and a full-day excursion to the islands of Lipari and Salina. Experience the magic of Sicily in a tour that promises unforgettable memories.
Included
Sicily: 5 international breakfasts, 3 lunches and 1 in hotel to have a taste of Sicilian traditional cuisine
Deluxe bus from day 2 to day 4.
Private transfer Catania Hotel – Milazzo Harbour.
Transfer Lipari Harbour – Lipari Hotel
Hydrofoil back and forth Milazzo – Lipari – Milazzo
1 boat excursion in group without guide Lipari & Salina or Vulcano
1 boat excursion in group without guide Panarea & Stromboli
Private transfer Milazzo Harbour-Taormina hotel
Accommodation in charming 4 stars hotels mostly located in the city centre, international breakfast included:
Palermo city centre: Mercure Palermo Centro 4*/ Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal 4* or similar
Catania city centre: : Il Principe Hotel 4*/ Romano House Hotel 4* or similar
Acitrezza: I Malavoglia Hotel 4* / I Faraglioni Hotel 4* or similar
Taormina: Villa Diodoro Hotel 4*/ Hotel Caparena Wellness & SPA 4* or similar
- Accommodation in charming 4 stars hotels, mostly located in the city centre, international breakfast included: Lipari: Hotel Bougainville 4* or similar
Multilingual Tour leader and professional travel guide* (English, Italian or Spanish) from the 2nd day to the evening of the 4 th day, local guides or audio audio-guides where necessary.
Sicily:
- Multilingual Tour leader and professional travel guide* (English, Italian or Spanish) from the 2nd day to the evening of the 4 th day, local guides or audio audio-guides where necessary.
- Deluxe bus from day 2 to day 4
- Whispers kit
- 5 international breakfasts, 3 lunches and 1 in hotel to have a taste of Sicilian traditional cuisine
- Visit of the main suggestive Unesco World Heritage Sites: Monreale, Palermo, Cefalù, Catania city centre, Etna.
- Tasting of Sicilian typical products: Catania (day 3): tasting of Sicilian granita & brioche ” Etna (day 4) visit of a beekeeping honey company and honey tasting.
- Private transfer Milazzo Harbour Harbour-Taormina hotel.
Private extensione to Aeolian Islands:
- Accommodation in charming 4 stars hotels, international breakfast included.
- 3 international breakfasts, 2 dinners and 1 lunch, beverages not included (packed lunch instead of dinner on the day of Panarea and Stromboli excursion).
Private transfer Catania Hotel – Milazzo Harbour
- Transfer Lipari Harbour – Lipari Hotel
- Hydrofoil back and forth Milazzo – Lipari – Milazzo
- 1 boat excursion in group (10/20 pax) Lipari & Salina or Vulcano
- 1 boat excursion in group (10/20 pax) Panarea & Stromboli
- Aeolian Islands City taxes
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Palermo
Day 1: Arrival in Palermo
Begin your Sicilian adventure with your arrival in Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Check into your hotel (or similar) and spend the evening at your leisure, exploring the vibrant city or simply relaxing after your journey.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Palermo and Monreale
- Monreale
- More
- Massimo Theater
- Porta Sant'Agata
- Castello di Maredolce
- Palermo Cathedral
- More
After breakfast, embark on a journey through time as you explore the magnificent Norman Cathedral and Arab-Norman style Cloister in Monreale. Then, delve into the rich history and art of Palermo, with its diverse architectural styles reflecting its multicultural past. Highlights include the stunning Cathedral, Martorana Church, and Cappella Palatina. Enjoy a free time for a typical local lunch (not included) and admire landmarks like the Teatro Massimo and Pretoria Square fountain. Dinner at your leisure (not included) and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Palermo to Cefalù and Catania
- Catania
- Cefalù
- More
- Cathedral of Cefalù
- Monastero dei Benedettini di San Nicolò l'Arena
- Porta Catania
- Basilica of St. Nicholas of Bari
- More
After breakfast, transfer to Cefalù, a charming Medieval town on Sicily's northern coast. Enjoy free time to explore the stunning Norman Dome and visit the renowned Mandralisca Museum or take a leisurely stroll. Savor a delicious lunch at a famous restaurant. In the afternoon, journey to Catania, known for its UNESCO World Heritage historical center, distinctive black lava stone streets, and original Baroque style. Begin at Duomo square with its magnificent Cathedral and the iconic Liotru statue, a symbol of the city. Walk along Via dei Crociferi, admiring the baroque architecture, including the famous S. Benedict Monastery. Enjoy a break at a historic bar for granita & brioche. Dinner on your own, overnight in a hotel.
Day 4 – Day 4: Catania, Mount Etna, and Taormina
- Taormina
- Catania
- More
- Greek - Roman theatre
- Museo Del Cinema
- Alcantara River Park
- Monti Sartorius
- Società Storica Catanese
- More
Start your day with a visit to Catania's historic fish market before heading to Mount Etna, Europe's highest volcano. Protected by a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, the regional park surrounding Etna offers breathtaking views and insights into unique geology, flora, and fauna. Explore the Crateri Silvestri, enjoy local honey, and savor typical Sicilian products. Then, journey to Taormina, a charming town perched above the sea with stunning views of Etna. Explore the Greek theatre and wander the medieval streets for shopping and local crafts. End the day with a glimpse of the beautiful Riviera dei Ciclopi before returning to Catania for overnight stay.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Catania to the Aeolian Islands
- Catania
- Milazzo
- More
Your journey continues to the Aeolian Islands, sans a tour leader. After breakfast, enjoy free time in Catania, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Baroque architecture and lava stone buildings. Later, transfer to Milazzo and board a hydrofoil to Lipari Island. Arrive at a 4-star hotel and enjoy a free afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Lipari and Salina Islands
Day 6: Exploring Lipari and Salina Islands
- Stromboli Vulcan
- Junco cove beach
- Marina di Patti Webcam
- La guardiola
- Castello di Milazzo
- Isola di Panarea
- Grotta del Bue Marino
- More
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Lipari and Salina islands. Sail along Lipari's coast, and you will have a view of the Castle of Lipari, Monte Rosa, and Canneto. Enjoy swimming at Pumice Cave beach. Then, head to Salina, where you'll see Acquacalda bay and explore Santa Marina Salina, Malfa village, Capofaro town, and Pollara bay from the sea. Stop at Lingua, a picturesque fishermen's village, for leisure time or to explore the island at your own pace. Return via Lipari's beautiful grottos and Vinci beach. Back to Lipari by late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 7 – Day 7: Excursion to Panarea & Stromboli
Day 7: Excursion to Panarea & Stromboli
- Palazzo D'Amico
- Strómboli
- Tenuta di Castellaro
- Lipari Porto
- Belvedere Capo Grillo
- Cave of Kaolin
- More
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing Lipari harbor for a full-day excursion to Panarea & Stromboli. Enjoy a swim at the Cave of Pumice, then explore Panarea's Calajunco bay and Milazzese prehistoric village. Take a break at Zimmari beach and Cava degli Innamorati. In Panarea, enjoy free time for lunch (not included), strolling, or visiting the prehistoric village. Proceed to Stromboli, stopping at Ginostra fishing village. Dinner and leisure time on the island for swimming or shopping. Experience stunning beaches and volcanic caves in warmer weather. Return to the boat at sunset for views of Trombolicchio rock and Sciara del Fuoco's volcanic explosions.
Day 8 – Day 8: From Lipari Island to Taormina
- Taormina
- Milazzo
- More
- Punta Pellaro
- More
After breakfast, transfer to Lipari harbor for the hydrofoil to Milazzo. Upon arrival, a private driver will take you to Taormina, hailed by Goethe as 'paradise on earth'. Enjoy a free day exploring the medieval village's historic sites or indulging in local handicraft shopping. Alternatively, unwind by the sea amidst vibrant Mediterranean flora. Don't miss Isola Bella, dubbed the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean', boasting tropical and native plant blends. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 9 – Day 9: Departure
- Taormina - Departure day
- More
After breakfast at the hotel, your Sicilian adventure concludes. Private transfers and excursions are optional with extra charge.
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