Southern Italy & Sicily

The hidden treasures of Southern Italy and Sicily are yours to explore, for it's here you'll find breathtaking scenery, historic cities, centuries-old hilltop villages and iconic cuisine.

Your Italian journey begins in Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Discover the city’s vibrant culture as you take in its gritty, unshakable spirit, and captivating energy. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine.

This morning, visit hilltop Monreale, ascending 92 steps to its 12th-century cathedral and entering to see its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Next, travel to a family-owned farmhouse, picturesquely set in the hills surrounding Palermo. Meet the owners and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like, and then tuck into a hearty farm-to-table lunch, made with family recipes. Return to Palermo for an evening at leisure.

Begin the day with an extensive walking tour of Palermo’s old town. On foot, uncover cobblestone piazzas and ornate buildings, many worn by time and conflict. This afternoon, relax aboard your bus as you travel over rolling hills and peaceful farmland to Sicily’s southern coast for a two-night stay in the outskirts of Agrigento.

This morning, step back 25 centuries and delve into ancient Greek history with a visit of the stunning Valley of the Temples, one of the world’s most esteemed archeological sites. Get an up-close view of the temples of Juno, Concordia, and Hercules during an extensive walking tour of this ancient acropolis. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure at your hotel, where you can take in the views from its panoramic terrace and walk along the beach. Spend the evening as you wish. Perhaps you’ll head to Agrigento’s old town for a stroll through its historic centre and free time to explore.

Venture deep into Sicily’s countryside to Piazza Armerina, home of the ancient Villa Romana del Casale. Explore the site with an expert insider for a locally guided tour of its impressive Roman mosaics. In the afternoon, journey to Sicily’s eastern shores for your three-night stay in Giardini Naxos. This evening, perhaps you’ll join an optional dinner with music, where traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air.

This morning, explore beautiful Taormina, home to ancient relics, rocky hills, and charming gardens. With an expert local guide, you’ll stroll the lively pedestrianized main street and climb to the city’s well-preserved Greek theatre. The afternoon is yours to explore more of Taormina or relax in Giardini Naxos – the “garden of Sicily.”