A journey around this Mediterranean island, crossroads of many civilizations that have shaped this land and evoke special emotions!
Departure from Palermo
Highlights:
Excursion to the Aeolian Islands (Lipari and Vulcano), UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discovery of small picturesque Sicilian villages;
Breathtaking views of the Sicilian coast;
Excursion to Mount Etna;
Visit to "The Godfather" film locations;
Tasting of typical Sicilian products.
8 days / 7 nights
From Catania to Palermo
Arrival at Catania airport, transfer to hotel, and free afternoon.
Breakfast, morning visit of Catania and its historic center rich in treasures. Cathedral, Piazza Duomo, Baroque Via dei Crociferi, Collegiata Church, Benedictine Monastery area, and the characteristic “Pescheria” market are the heart of the city. Late morning transfer to Syracuse, the largest and most beautiful Greek colony in Sicily. Upon arrival, immerse in a glorious era of Sicily. The Neapolis Archaeological Park and Ortigia Island monuments with the famous Fountain of Arethusa, Latomia del Paradiso, and the Ear of Dionysius with extraordinary acoustics are tangible signs of a magnificent civilization. During the Syracuse visit, an optional boat tour around Ortigia Island is possible.
Breakfast. Departure for the Etna excursion, Europe’s highest volcano, towering over eastern Sicily. Arrival at 2,000 m above sea level, along ancient lava flows, enjoying breathtaking views of the Ionian coast. Visit the "Lemon Riviera" and fishing villages of the Ionian coast. Stop at Acitrezza to admire the Faraglioni, said to have been thrown by Polyphemus at Ulysses. Continue to Acireale, cradle of Catanese Baroque, and “capital” of the Lemon Riviera. Visit the Churches of San Sebastiano, Saints Peter and Paul, and the Cathedral.
Breakfast and transfer to Forza D’Agrò, medieval village near Taormina, rich in art, history, and culture, famous for film locations such as "The Godfather". The jewel of the village is the Norman Castle, a fortress at the highest and most inaccessible part of the valley, over 420 meters above sea level, with breathtaking views. After visiting Forza D’Agrò, proceed to Taormina for a relaxing stroll through its characteristic streets. Founded in the 4th century BC by the Siculi, later a prosperous Greek city and Roman domain. The most famous monument is the theater from the 3rd century BC, of inestimable archaeological value and panoramic beauty.
Breakfast. Early morning transfer to Milazzo to embark for Lipari and start the motorboat excursion of the two islands. Visit Lipari Castle, Monte Rosa, and Canneto, with the first stop at the pumice caves for a swim. Continue along Acquacalda and toward Vulcano via Vulcanello, observing the spectacular Valle dei Mostri. Pass the Faraglioni and Grotta degli Angeli, admire the Black Sands Bay and the impressive Gran Cratere della Fossa, the island's active volcano. End at Levante port, explore the village, mud bath, or (for the adventurous) climb the crater. Return to Milazzo.
Breakfast. Morning visit to Cefalù, elegant tourist center, famous for artistic and monumental gems: Norman Cathedral, 12th-century cloister, Medieval washhouse carved into rock. Free time for shopping. Afternoon visit to ruins of ancient Hellenistic-Roman Solunto on the northern coast with panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Breakfast. Visit to the Sicilian capital, rich in history and art. Walk through Palermo’s heart discovering the city’s jewels: Cathedral, Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, Norman Palace and Palatine Chapel. Afternoon transfer to Monreale to visit Cathedral and adjoining Cloister. Optional excursion to Monte Pellegrino with the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia for panoramic city views.
Breakfast and free time until airport transfer.
The ideal period for the Aeolian Islands excursion is April to October.
The Aeolian Islands excursion is subject to weather conditions.
Transport for the Aeolian Islands includes motorboats, hydrofoils, and ferries, not exclusive. In peak periods, delays may occur for departures from Milazzo or the Aeolian Islands.
If the Aeolian Islands excursion is cancelled, the following alternative itinerary will be proposed:
Day 5: Piazza Armerina > Agrigento
Day 6: Selinunte > Segesta
No refund is provided in case of cancellation of the Aeolian Islands excursion.
