Sicily & the Aeolian Islands Highlights

Your Sicilian adventure begins in Catania, where you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Zafferana Etnea. Spend the evening getting acquainted with your tour guide and fellow travelers over a welcome dinner, and learn about the exciting itinerary that awaits you over the next few days.

Today, you'll visit the majestic Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend to an altitude of 1,900 meters and explore the extinct Silvestri crater. If you're feeling adventurous, you can opt for a cable car and jeep ride to reach an altitude of 2,800 meters. On your way back, take a short hike through the volcanic landscape to the cooled lava flow from the 1992 eruption. End the day with a visit to a local beekeeper, where you'll learn about the diverse products grown on the slopes of Mount Etna and sample honey, wine, olives, and bread.

Today, you'll travel to the fertile island of Salina, known for its abundant olives and delicious capers. Enjoy a tour of the island and a wine tasting session, where you'll savor the sweet Malvasia grapes. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush landscape or simply soaking in the sea views. In the evening, indulge in the local cuisine, featuring pani cunzatu, a large toasted bread typically served with seasonal vegetables and mozzarella.

Today, you'll explore the untouched natural beauty of Filicudi. A bus tour will introduce you to the island's stunning landscapes, followed by a hike to the ancient village of Capo Graziano. Enjoy a creamy cappuccino in the market square or wander through the charming alleyways. Return to Salina in the late afternoon for a relaxing evening.

Today, you'll journey from Salina to the ancient harbor town of Lipari. Immerse yourself in the town's vibrant atmosphere, visit the acropolis and archaeological museum, or relax in a trattoria on the Piazza Marina Corta. Enjoy a cool glass of white wine and watch the lively harbor scene. In the afternoon, embark on a tour of the largest island in the archipelago, learning interesting facts about its history and culture.

Set sail for the island of Vulcano. Along the way, you'll pass enchanting grottoes and small bays, stopping for a refreshing swim. Once on Vulcano, witness the island's geothermal activity firsthand as white vapors rise from small holes in the earth. Spend the day exploring the quaint fishing village or relaxing in the natural springs.

Today, you'll continue your journey to Stromboli, home to Europe's only permanently active volcano. Stroll through the cozy village on the island and enjoy a boat trip in the evening. If you're lucky, you'll witness the spectacular sight of red lava shooting into the blue sky from the sea!

In the morning, take a boat from Stromboli to Panarea, the oldest and smallest island in the archipelago. Discover the island's charm from the boat, passing by the famous Cala Junco bay and offshore islands. Spend the afternoon exploring the narrow alleyways lined with pretty white and blue houses or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise sea. In the evening, join your tour guide for a hike along a nature trail to Punta Labronzo, where you may observe small eruptions from a vantage point.

Bid farewell to the Aeolian Islands as you cross over to Milazzo and travel along the Strait of Messina to Taormina. Known as the 'Pearl of Sicily', this ancient town is beautifully situated on Monte Tauro, with Mount Etna serving as a stunning backdrop. Visit Taormina's Greco-Roman theater and marvel at the impressive blend of nature and culture. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel.

Enjoy a leisurely day in Taormina. Relax on the azure beaches, stroll along the promenade, or take the cable car to the town center for some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, gather for a tasty farewell dinner in a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city.

Your Sicilian adventure comes to an end today. With a heart full of wonderful memories, you'll be transferred to the airport in Catania for your return flight home.