Southern Italy & Sicily featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast (Palermo to Rome)

Welcome to the beautiful regions of Southern Italy and Sicily. Prepare to uncover their hidden treasures, from breathtaking landscapes and historic cities to centuries-old hilltop villages and iconic cuisine. Your Italian adventure begins today.

Your Italian sojourn begins in the vibrant city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture as you explore its picturesque harbors and cobblestone piazzas. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine.

Today, you'll delve deeper into Palermo's rich history and architecture. Discover the city's Moorish, Norman, and Spanish influences on a walking tour, exploring the Kalsa district, the Fontana Pretoria, the Quattro Canti, and the Cathedral. In the evening, visit a medieval palace and enjoy an aperitif with a countess.

Enjoy a day at your leisure in Palermo, exploring its open-air markets, art galleries, or relaxing in an outdoor café. Alternatively, join an optional full-day excursion to the medieval town of Cefalù, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the town with a local guide, visit a nearby farm for a ricotta cheese demonstration, and enjoy a farm-to-table dinner.

Today, visit the hilltop town of Monreale and its 12th-century cathedral, renowned for its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Choose to explore the cathedral's cloisters or ascend the southern tower for panoramic views over Palermo. Later, travel to Agrigento and explore the stunning Valley of the Temples, one of the world's most esteemed archaeological sites.

Journey east to Sicily's Ionian Coast and discover the beautiful town of Taormina. Stroll the lively Corso Umberto, see the imposing Corvaja Palace, and visit the well-preserved Greek theatre with an expert local guide. Later, continue to Giardini Naxos, the 'garden of Sicily', for a 2-night stay.

Set out for the impressive Mt. Etna Volcano National Park, where a local expert will introduce you to the park's spectacular landscapes. Enjoy free time in Giardini Naxos in the afternoon, or join an optional tour to charming Savoca, a filming location for The Godfather. End the day with a traditional Sicilian dinner.

Take a short ferry ride to Villa San Giovanni on Italy's mainland. Pass through the unspoiled region of Calabria and into the Basilicata region. Visit a local winery, tour the cellar, and enjoy a tasting. Savor regional cuisine at dinner in the winery's agriturismo restaurant.

Explore the ancient settlement of Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its carved cave dwellings. Visit a local shop for a taste of regional specialties. In the afternoon, choose between a guided tour of an underground cistern in Matera or a trip to Alberobello, known for its whimsical trulli homes.

After a stop at a sustainable buffalo farm for a taste of freshly made mozzarella, arrive in Sorrento for a 2-night stay. Discover this charming seaside town during a walking tour and learn about the local tradition of wood marquetry.

Sail along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, taking in the deep blue hues of the sea and the bright citrus fruits lining the hillsides. Pause in Positano, known for its pastel-colored houses and pebbly beaches. Spend time exploring this legendary locale before returning to Sorrento for an afternoon at leisure. Celebrate the end of your journey with a delightful farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Journey north to Rome, stopping en route to explore the excavated ruins of Pompeii. A local guide will give you an in-depth look into this 2,000-year-old Roman town. Later, check in to your hotel located close to Fiumicino Airport.

Your unforgettable journey through Southern Italy and Sicily comes to a close today. Depart with cherished memories of this beautiful region and its rich history, culture, and cuisine.