Arriving in Sicily is like stepping into a land where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by stunning coastal views, vibrant towns, and the warmth of Sicilian hospitality. When exploring ancient ruins, savoring local cuisine, and soaking in the Mediterranean sun, Sicily offers an unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Sicily! Upon arrival at Catania airport meet your driver and enjoy a private transfer to your historic hotel Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea and spend the rest of your day at leisure.
If there is one place in Sicily that embodies the good life, it is Taormina. Perched on a rocky promontory above the sea, its Greek theater is world famous for the spectacular setting and scenery framing Etna, and the town is full of shops, lovely cafès and restaurants.
This morning, embark on half day private tour in Taormina Bays by boat. From Giardini Naxos to Mazzarò, and from Isola Bella to Mermaids Bays, you will stop to swim and snorkel in the best swimming spots along the small Pirate Bay. Enjoy the breathtaking crystal-clear water of the sea and black rocks.
Being the highest active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna is a magic place where you’ll feel its energy as you set foot there. The best way to experience it is by a private Jeep 4x4 exclusive excursion. Your driver-guide will pick you up in hotel and get you far enough off the beaten track to give you a unique experience going through the lava fields and the craters of ancient and recent eruptions. You will reach the Ragabo pine forest and the Monti Sartorius (craters of 1865): the view is breathtaking encompassing the Ionian coast, from Taormina till the Calabrian coast. The last stage of the day will be a premium winery where you’ll discover why the wines coming out of Mount Etna are today considered some of the finest and most unique in Italy.
Enjoy the day at leisure, to relax and explore the area at your own pace.
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll depart towards Siracusa. You will stop en route in the countryside to visit the AMARA liqueur factory. You will walk among the orange groves, pick the “blood oranges” and taste the freshly squeezed orange juice. You’ll visit the distillery to discover the secrets of the Amara recipe and the nineteenth century Palmento once used for the production of wine.
Expect to arrive in Siracusa in the early afternoon. You will spend 3 nights on the island of Ortigia, the old town and the original Greek settlement connected to modern Siracusa by a bridge.
Stay at Grand hotel Des Etrangers ☆☆☆☆☆ (or similar)
This morning, enjoy the magic of Siracusa from the sea on board of a classic wooden sail boat. You’ll cruise the waters of Ortigia’s bay admiring the beautiful façades and the coastline to arrive to the Marine Protected Area of Plemmirio. Your captain is from the nearby town of Palazzolo which produces some of the best food specialties in Sicily! So, enjoy a delicious Sicilian lunch with wines and the best food from farmers and local producers.
Enjoy the day at leisure, to relax and explore the area at your own pace.
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver and depart to your hotel in Palemo, the Rocco Forte Hotel Villa Igiea. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, to relax and explore the area at your own pace.
Stay at Rocco Forte Hotel Villa Igiea ☆☆☆☆☆ (or similar)
Spend a lovely day with a home cook and enjoy a hands-on cooking lesson. Your chef will meet you at the Capo Market to show you how to find and buy fresh food to cook with Alla Siciliana. She will guide you through the loud and colorful alleys of the market where you will get the sense of what makes Palermo, Palermo! Then you’ll move to your chef’s home to prepare and together enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
After check-out today you will meet your driver for a private transfer to the airport.
Fly home with great memories and experiences!
*Note: This trip is fully customisable! Additional days at the beginning and end of the trip can be added.
