Italy: Highlights of Sicily
Experience Overview
Calling all sun-seeking adventurers. Dramatic cliffside villages, Sicilian sunshine, clear waters and delicious seafood are all waiting for you on an 8-day trip through this unique region of Italy. From the volcanic valleys of Mt Etna to the timeworn streets of Syracuse and the Baroque wonders Ragusa, get ready to discover the varied sides of Sicily. Plus, take a step back in time as you explore the ruins of the Valley of the temples, and learn of the rich anti-mafia history of Palermo. Get lost in the charm of Sicily; eat good food, soak up the Mediterranean sun, learn of the incredible history in this region and get closer to nature.
Highlights
- Take a drive up the towering Mt. Etna, one of the greatest natural beauties of the Mediterranean and Europe’s largest active volcano and get a chance to walk into an extinct crater.
- Be swept away by Sicilian charm as you explore the backstreets and cobblestone alleys in the timeless old town of Syracuse, Noto and Ragusa.
- Take a step back in time with a guided tour of Temple of the Valleys which brings to life the full glory of ancient Greece and its myths, legends, gods and goddesses.
- Join a special tour that showcases the anti-mafia movement in Palermo, visiting sites and people who played an important part in the turbulent history of the city.
- Enjoy a perfect balance of free time and included activities on this trip for you to make your own discoveries, with our professional leader helping you make the most of it.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3249
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Public bus,Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMSL
Starts: Catania, Italy
Finishes: Palermo, Italy
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7),Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,700 ($462 /day)
Itinerary
Benvenuto! Welcome to Sicily. Your adventure will begin in the ancient port city of Catania on Sicily’s east coast. Your trip will officially kick off with a Welcome Meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your fellow travellers and group leader. If you arrive early, why not take a wander around the city at your leisure. Catania sits at the foot of Mount Etna which can be seen from well over half of the city – truly a sight to see, you might just like to traverse the cobblestone laneways that give glimpses of the epic volcano towering above. And if you get time, be sure to take a visit to Catania’s wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, which features the whimsical Fontana dell'Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. You could even check out the weekday fish market that sits in the southwest corner of the square – it’s an entertaining yet rowdy spectacle to observe.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today it’s time to come face-to-face with the volcano that towered over you yesterday, we’re taking a day trip to drive up Mt Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Drive up the northern flank of the volcano and strap on your walking shoes for an easy walk through the spectacular Valle del Bove (Ox Valley), a valley formed when the original crater of Etna collapsed. This is Etna’s largest valley, where many lava flows can be seen, one on top of the other. At an altitude of approx 2,000 metres, you’ll walk into the centre of an extinct crater and visit a lava cave that can be explored with helmets and torches. Who else can say they’ve walked into the crater of a volcano? Walk among the cold lava streams of Piano Provenzana, a former ski resort that has been destroyed during the last big eruption of 2002. After we’re throughly explored Etna, we’ll hit the road to Syracuse where your leader will take you on an orientation walk through the most interesting parts of the city. The evening is yours to explore, or chill out, as you wish.
Included Activities:
- Mt Etna - Day Trip
- Siracusa - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up without an alarm today, you’ve got the day at your leisure to explore Syracuse however you like. Perhaps, wander through the streets and check out the crumbling building facades and balconies supported for centuries by a host of stone lions, tigers, bears, dragons, moors, satyrs, devils, angels, kings, paupers, wenches and cherubs. Perhaps take a boat trip around the island of Ortigia for a scenic view of the walled off cityscape. Or, you may want to participate in an optional visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Site – known as one of the world’s finest. Alternately, we’re sure you could fill your whole day just wandering aimlessly through this fascinating city, stopping by cafes, restaurants and perhaps grabbing a granita in the afternoon.
Optional Activities:
- Siracusa - Castello Maniace (4 EUR)
- Siracusa - Cathedral (2 EUR)
- Siracusa - Archaeological Museum (14 EUR)
- Siracusa - Neapolis Archaeological Park (13 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast today we’re setting our sights for the city of Agrigento. But first, there’s one quick stop along the way that simply can’t be missed – Noto, a small slightly less-known town with limestone buildings that dazzle on a sunlit afternoon. Our next stop is the ‘new’ baroque city of Ragusa that was completely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, resulting in two vastly different sides to the same city. After exploring the tangled alleyways and baroque palazzi, travel on to the final destination for today, Agrigento. Arrive late in the afternoon and enjoy some free time. Maybe find the historic center that extends up the Colle di Girgenti hill including Via Atenea and Viale della Vittoria, where there’s a panoramic view over the valley (Valley of the Temples) and the sea for sunset. Plus, be sure to try the famous gelato pecorino in one of the local cafés and patisseries.
Included Activities:
- Noto & Ragusa - Day Trip
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You’ll take a step back in time today as you explore the nearby Valley of the Temples. Your local guide will bring this classical Greek site to life as you visit the temples of Hera, Herakles, Zeus and Castor and Pollux. Try to nab a window seat today, along the way you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the sweeping landscape and Mediterranean Sea. After the guided tour in the Valley of the Temples, you’ll head on to Marsala a coastal town in the west of Sicily.
Included Activities:
- Agrigento - Guided visit Valley of the Temples
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll set your sights on Palermo, but not without a few scenic stops along the way. First up, we’ll explore the beautifully preserved medieval town of Erice (located more than 750 metres above sea level). Despite being handed from one ruling army to the next, there are plenty of beautiful buildings in this town, each showcasing architectural styles from a varied history. Before you get back on the road, be sure to pick yourself up a Genovesi – a traditional Sicilian pastry filled with custard or ricotta cream. With a belly full of sweets, we’re on our way to the capital of Sicily – Palermo. On arrival in Palermo the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. You might like to wander the labyrinth of small alleyways, buzzing colourful market squares and winding roads. Or, check out some of the main monuments like the 12th century cathedral in the old heart of the city.
Included Activities:
- Erice - local sweets tasting
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up excited and ready to explore the beautiful city of Palermo. In the morning, you’ll take part in a walking tour with a local guide where you’ll uncover symbolic places of rebellion and anti-mafia racketeering. Places such as the Teatro Massimo, Cape Market, Piazza della Memoria, Beati Paoli Square and more all have a rich history in civil mobilisation – plus, they are known to serve delicious street food. Dig in! You’ll get a chance to meet shop owners who have had the courage to denounce their extortionists. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to visit nearby Monreale, situated in a panoramic position above Palermo with fantastic views over the city and the sea. You’ll get a chance to visit the cathedral here, described as one of the ‘wonders of the medieval world’, and climb to its roof. Alternately, you might like to wander the city of Palermo at your own will. This evening, perhaps share a bite to eat and toast to the week that was with your group before the adventure comes to an end tomorrow.
Included Activities:
- Palermo - Anti-Mafia Movement Tour
Optional Activities:
- Monreale - Cathedral & Cloister (13 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventures come to an end today after breakfast. If you’d like to stay and explore more in Palermo we can arrange additional accommodation on request (subject to availability).
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Megan - Traveled, October 2023
A great introduction to Sicily. Etna, Erice and Valley of the Temples were highlights. Interesting contrast of places visited in history, architecture and food with some longer travel days.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Bethelle - Traveled, October 2023
Sicily is a fabulous place to visit - wonderful history and the food is delicious. The tour was great - took in all the places of interest - historical ruins; small medieval towns; swimming spots. All just wonderful
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Cate - Traveled, October 2023
From Catania to Palermo, Sicily this Intrepid trip was terrific - our tour leader Katia Sparta was well organised and her knowledge , along with information provided by local tour guides made this trip memorable for us
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023
Benny - Traveled, October 2023
This tour gives a great overview of Sicily in a week. It offers a mix of organised activity and free time. I would now like to return to Sicily and spend more exploring it in more detail.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Abi - Traveled, July 2023
Sicily is beautiful. However I would check beforehand the age range of other tour participants. Going a slower speed to accomodate an older age range can really damped things for a 20-something year old. Otherwise Sicily is stunning, and a must-see location for anyone going to Italy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Mary - Traveled, July 2023
I found the tour around Sicily very interesting and I learnt so much about the history and culture of this amazing island. We were very lucky to have Veronica as our guide, a proud Sicilian woman who was able to share with us her knowledge of the history and culture of Sicily and also knew great places to get delicious local food. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Wayne - Traveled, June 2023
Vincenzo our tour leader went above and beyond to ensure that all group members were given the best opportunity to get the most out the areas/cities we visited which made a tour highly enjoyable. Highly recommend Intrepid to anyone that wants to be a traveller.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2023
Ebony - Traveled, July 2024
A great trip for those eager to get a taste of Sicily. Small group size meant we were able to comfortably travel in a mini van from destination to destination, soaking in the beautiful Sicilian Country side. My only feedback would be that I wish it was a couple days longer to see some more of the coastal towns!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/08/2024
Michelle - Traveled, June 2024
Highlights of Sicily is a great way to see this island from coast to coast, visiting some beautiful cities, coastal villages and ancient ruins along the way. I recommend doing this tour along with Intrepid Malta as its just a short flight away. May is a really good time to visit, just before the summer heat.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2024
Lisa - Traveled, June 2024
I loved learning about Sicilian history, food and culture on this trip from our local leader Gabriella. There is so much to explore and experience with Etna, the Valley of the Temples and anti mafia movement tour highlights - alongside the granita and arancine!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/12/2024
Louise - Traveled, June 2024
A great introduction to Sicily with Gabriella, a wonderful tour leader, and a lovely group. This tour had the perfect mix of free time and organised tours. Highlights include the anti-mafia tour in Palermo, the Valley of the Temples and Siracusa to name but a few. A suggestion is to reduce the length of the Mount Etna "lava tour" to max 3 hours or less, and have longer for lunch.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/04/2024
Marc - Traveled, May 2024
Great trip! Good places, great food and drink, good travelers, and great tour guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/22/2024
Pamela - Traveled, May 2024
Intrepid has always presented great tour leaders who are knowledgeable, respectful, who communicate well and manage all aspects of the our without hassle and fuss.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2024
Maria Cecilia - Traveled, May 2024
The tour to Sicily will raise your awareness of the Etna Volcano, the Marsala and Nero D'Avola wine, the greek and then roman civilization along with Baroque and Norman. You will travel through history while enjoying good food, great conversation and unforgettable views.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2024
John - Traveled, May 2024
This was my first trip with Intrepid and would definitely use them again. In fact when I plan future trips, I will contact them first.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2024
Chris - Traveled, April 2024
This isn’t a public transport trip. Distances are long and this short holiday can only skim the surface of Sicily -which it does well - but as there is so much history to enjoy, lots inevitably missed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/07/2024
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