Sicily
A Journey Through Timeless Cities
Authentic Flavors and Enchanting Landscapes
THE MOMENTS
The Memorable Moments of Your Journey
Embark on a self-drive journey through the soulful heart of Sicily, from the vibrant streets of Palermo to the terraces of Taormina. Along the way, uncover baroque cities bathed in golden light, ancient ruins whispering of lost empires, and bold, unforgettable flavours rooted in centuries of tradition.
Highlights
- Palermo: admiring golden mosaics and tasting street food in open-air markets
- Agrigento: walking among ancient temples and staying in a countryside estate
- Ragusa, Modica & Noto: climbing baroque staircases and sampling Modica’s historic chocolate
- Syracuse & Ortigia: exploring Greek ruins and meeting local puppet artisans
- Taormina & Mount Etna: hiking lava fields and tasting volcanic wines at the summit
The Journey
Full tour description
Palermo: In the shadow of gold and stone
Begin your journey in Palermo, a city where layers of history are etched into every stone and scent. From the golden mosaics of the Palatine Chapel to the Norman Palace’s austere elegance and the theatrical grace of Teatro Massimo, Palermo is a living tapestry – Arab, Norman, Baroque – woven across time. Explore these wonders in the company of Anita, a German-born sociologist who has called Sicily home for over two decades. Her deep knowledge of Mediterranean culture brings new light to the city’s soul, and a visit to the Palatine Chapel with her becomes an experience as moving as it is unforgettable. As you wander through Palermo’s vibrant streets, let the crisp bite of an arancina, the sweetness of a cannolo, and the aromas of open-air markets tell their part of the story: bold, generous, and unmistakably Sicilian.
Agrigento: The Eternal Beauty of the Valley of the Temples
Temples emerges in all its majesty. Among olive groves and fields of wildflowers, ancient Greek columns rise toward the sky, silent, weathered sentinels of over two thousand years of history. With archaeologist and local guide Laura at your side, the stones begin to speak: myths, rituals, and forgotten voices come vividly to life. Your stay in a secluded countryside estate offers a quiet retreat, inviting you to slow down, breathe in the landscape, and reconnect with the most ancient soul of the island.
The Baroque heart: Ragusa, Modica, and Noto
The journey winds through the golden Baroque trio of Ragusa, Modica, and Noto UNESCO jewels where stone becomes poetry. In Ragusa, climb toward the Duomo of San Giorgio, its façade like a theatrical backdrop suspended above the city. In Modica, let centuries-old chocolate recipes awaken your senses, crafted in the same way since the Spanish ruled these hills. Finally, stroll the honey-hued streets of Noto, where sweeping staircases and ornate palazzi shimmer beneath the Sicilian sun.
Ortigia: Where myth rests on water
In Ortigia, Syracuse’s island soul, the sea and sky seem to blur. Gentle breezes carry whispers of gods and empires as you wander elegant piazzas and visit the Cathedral. At the Temple of Apollo, history rises from the earth, while local artisans give life to pupi, the handmade marionettes of Sicilian folklore. Venture into the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where the grand Greek Theatre, the shadowy Ear of Dionysius, and the Roman Amphitheater tell a story etched in stone and myth: echoes of a city that once ruled the seas.
Taormina & Etna: Grace carved by fire
Your Sicilian journey culminates in Taormina, perched like a jewel perched above the sparkling Ionian Sea. From its ancient Greek Theatre, gaze out over the Ionian coast with Mount Etna smoldering on the horizon. Then ascend the volcano itself, by 4×4 and on foot, across surreal lava fields and silent craters. Taste wines born of fire and stone, grown in volcanic soil that yields bold, mineral-rich expressions. Between Taormina’s cinematic charm and Etna’s elemental power, you will experience the island’s most dramatic contrasts: beauty shaped by fire, still burning beneath the surface.
ACTIVITY
Recommended experiences
PRIVATE VISIT AND APERITIVO IN PALERMO
Visit a historic Palermo palace with a member of the Federico family, exploring Arab-Norman towers, painted salons, and noble frescoes. End with a refined aperitivo — a rare blend of aristocratic charm and Sicilian warmth.
AGRIGENTO: PICNIC AT KOLYMBETHRA GARDENS
After visiting the Valley of the Temples, retreat to the Kolymbethra Gardens for a picnic among olive trees, citrus groves, and Greek ruins. A serene pause in nature and history, savoring Sicilian flavors beneath the shade.
PRIVATE ARCHAEOLOGIST-GUIDED TOUR IN SYRACUSE
Explore Neapolis Park in Syracuse with a private archaeologist guide. Walk through the Greek Theatre, Ear of Dionysius, and Roman Amphitheatre, uncovering the legacy of Magna Graecia through vivid stories and ancient stones.
What to Expect
Designed for you
What’s Included
- Thoughtfully selected stays, immersive experiences, private guiding, and seamless transfers: all shaped with care by your local expert. A personal concierge is by your side throughout. Pricing reflects off-peak travel and may vary seasonally.
Trip Details
How long
13 days / 12 nights “ideal length”
When
Best enjoyed in spring or autumn (March–June, September–November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Private concierge
Tailor-Made Experience
PHOTOGALLERY
Photogallery
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