Sicilian Sun
Fully Escorted Tour
Say "si!" to Sicily with this 7-night vacation package! You'll stay in charming hotels while being treated to the experience of a lifetime without the hassle; enjoy seamless airport transfers, guided tours, tastings of Sicilian cuisine, luxury transportation and more.
Escorted tours offer expert guides who provide deep local insights and worry-free planned itineraries. Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers, visit hidden gems not found on typical tours, and enjoy peace of mind with a travel support system.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Catania (CTA)
- Round-trip airport transfers in Catania
- 7 nights’ accommodations at the following hotels, or similar
- 1 night in Catania at the Hotel Il Principe or Romano House Hotel
- 1 night in Ragusa at the Mediterraneo Palace Hotel
- 1 night in Agrigento at the Baia di Ullisse Wellness & Spa
- 2 nights in Palermo at the Mercure Palermo Centro Hotel or Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal Hotel
- 2 nights in Catania at the Hotel Il Principe or Romano House Hotel
- Tours, Tastings & Visits:
- Tour of Syracuse & Noto
- Visits to Ragusa Ibla & Modica with chocolate tasting
- Valley of the Temples
- Visit to Florio Wine Cellar
- Tour Palermo
- Tour of Catania
- Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion
- Transportation, Meals & More:
- Round-trip airport transfers in Catania
- Transportation via deluxe bus
- Services of an English-speaking tour escort
- Local tours and entrance fees (as mentioned in the itinerary)
- Porterage at hotels
- Daily breakfast, 2 dinners & 5 lunches
Great Ways to Explore
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Explore the salt windmills of Trapani with a guided tour.
- Enjoy meals at specially selected, local restaurants, offering an authentic taste of Sicilian cuisine.
-
Admire Norman palaces and Arab domes one day, take in stunning Byzantine mosaics the next.
-
Sample the famous local dessert wines, from Marsala to Zibbibo.
-
Experience the robust flavor of local produce enriched by the flavor of Mt. Etna's volcanic soil.
Experience stunning Sicily without the stress! You'll stay in accommodations throughout the "toe" of Italy's boot while surrounded by picturesque coastlines.
This escorted vacation takes you through the gems of Sicily; visit the ancient Greek ruins of Siracusa, admire the breathtaking mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, and more.
You'll also be treated to several meals in carefully selected eateries, where you can sample authentic Sicilian cuisine! In additional to traditional Italian food, Sicilian food boasts influences from Greek, French, Arab and Spanish cuisine as well. Sample a forkful of the historic Pasta all Norma paired with a glass of local red wine.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Catania (CTA)
- Round-trip airport transfers in Catania
- 7 nights’ accommodations at the following hotels, or similar
- 1 night in Catania at the Hotel Il Principe or Romano House Hotel
- 1 night in Ragusa at the Mediterraneo Palace Hotel
- 1 night in Agrigento at the Baia di Ullisse Wellness & Spa
- 2 nights in Palermo at the Mercure Palermo Centro Hotel or Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal Hotel
- 2 nights in Catania at the Hotel Il Principe or Romano House Hotel
- Tours, Tastings & Visits:
- Tour of Syracuse & Noto
- Visits to Ragusa Ibla & Modica with chocolate tasting
- Valley of the Temples
- Visit to Florio Wine Cellar
- Tour Palermo
- Tour of Catania
- Mount Etna & Taormina Excursion
- Transportation, Meals & More:
- Round-trip airport transfers in Catania
- Transportation via deluxe bus
- Services of an English-speaking tour escort
- Local tours and entrance fees (as mentioned in the itinerary)
- Porterage at hotels
- Daily breakfast, 2 dinners & 5 lunches
-
Explore the salt windmills of Trapani with a guided tour.
- Enjoy meals at specially selected, local restaurants, offering an authentic taste of Sicilian cuisine.
-
Admire Norman palaces and Arab domes one day, take in stunning Byzantine mosaics the next.
-
Sample the famous local dessert wines, from Marsala to Zibbibo.
-
Experience the robust flavor of local produce enriched by the flavor of Mt. Etna's volcanic soil.
Experience stunning Sicily without the stress! You'll stay in accommodations throughout the "toe" of Italy's boot while surrounded by picturesque coastlines.
This escorted vacation takes you through the gems of Sicily; visit the ancient Greek ruins of Siracusa, admire the breathtaking mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, and more.
You'll also be treated to several meals in carefully selected eateries, where you can sample authentic Sicilian cuisine! In additional to traditional Italian food, Sicilian food boasts influences from Greek, French, Arab and Spanish cuisine as well. Sample a forkful of the historic Pasta all Norma paired with a glass of local red wine.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Number of Nights:
- 7
Day 1. Welcome to Sicily!
Upon arrival at the airport in Catania, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Catania. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure until you meet the rest of your travel companions later for a short briefing.
Transfer to hotel
Il Prinicpe Hotel Catania is set in a recently restored aristocratic building, located in the baroque heart of the historical centre of Catania. Enjoy stays in elegant and luxurious rooms while surrounded by stunning Sicilian Architecture! The hotel is located just a 20-minute walk from the beach, one mile from Catania Centrale Train Station, and about two miles from Catania Fontanarossa Airport.
All guest rooms are elegantly designed and furnished with a jacuzzi bath or shower, TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, mini-bar, and more. The dining room serves delicious local and international cuisine, and there is also an American piano bar for guests to relax and drink in.
The Romano House Hotel is a stylist return back to the 18th century designated in the center of Baroque Catania, perfectly constructed by artisan crafts and enhanced with modern technology. The environment is a nice crossover of past centuries with contemporary styles making it one of the more unique hotels around the Catania region.
Various designs of guest rooms are available whether you are looking for something simple or something avant-garde. Each room comes with a window, private bath, television, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi which is available throughout the hotel. The hotel's very own luxury restaurant, Il Riccio Restaurant, serves high-end Sicilian and Mediterranean style dishes. A house bar is also available on site, as well as a fitness center.
Set just near Catania's famous nightlife and business district, plenty of attractions are available to guests for outside entertainment and ease of access. Some of the noteworthy ones are the Bellini Theater, Villa Bellini (Park), and the Catania Cathedral. A stay at the Romano House Hotel will not only be extraordinary, but incredibly accessible.
Day 2. Catania – Siracusa – Noto – Ragusa
Begin your day in Syracuse before continuing to Ragusa for dinner and an overnight stay.
Check-in - Mediterraneo Palace Hotel
A spacious 4-star accommodation set deep within the Sicily's famous history center, Ragusa, the Mediterraneo Palace Hotel is an excellent choice for all types of visitors. Famously known as a historic hotspot and artistic hub, Ragusa is one of Sicily's prime tourist spots within close proximity to a handful of popular destinations.
The hotel is decorated exquisitely in sleek, modern-style décor and furniture. All rooms have access to free Wi-Fi and are kept clean and air conditioned. Each guest room comes with an assortment of luxurious amenities, such as a private bath with a porcelain tub, large window, television, and a coffee/tea maker. Guests can enjoy the local taste of Mediterranean and Sicilian cuisine at the hotel's very own private restaurant, which also serves a delicious array of breakfast items including fresh pastries. Staff at the hotel are available 24/7 and can offer advice on popular spots and attractions.
The excitement of staying at the Mediterraneo Palace Hotel is further enhanced by the hotel's proximity to nearby destinations. Some of these include the IBLA Mountain, historic Ibla district, The Municipal Gardens of Villa Margherita, Piazza Libertà, and many more. Pack your bags and get ready to stay at a chic accommodation right in the heart of Sicily's most historic city!
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you'll set off for Syracuse, a captivating city steeped in layers of history and cultural splendor. Your journey begins at the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where you'll marvel at the grand Greek Theatre—one of the best-preserved in the world—followed by the Roman Amphitheater, the enchanting Latomie of Paradise quarries, and the acoustically intriguing Ear of Dionysius.
Later, you’ll explore the charming island of Ortigia, starting at Piazza Duomo with its stunning Baroque Cathedral built atop an ancient temple, and stroll to the scenic Arethusa’s Fountain before heading to Noto in the afternoon to admire its golden-hued Baroque architecture and enjoy free time in its graceful historic center.
Day 3. Ragusa – Ibla – Modica – Piazza Armerina – Agrigento
Start your day exploring Ragusa Ibla before traveling to Agrigento for dinner and an overnight stay.
Check-in - Baia Di Ulisse Wellness & Spa
This is a resort hotel directly on the beach which offers various activities for its guest from beach volleyball to the solarium, day and night entertainment, internet access, scooter rental, and an outdoor pool. Surrounded by a lush pine forest, the Baia Di Ulisse Wellness & Spa offers nonstop stunning views and upscale service.
Each guest room is comfortable equipped with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, sea or garden views, minifridges, and more. Guests can dive into the sparkling pool while enjoying views of the sparkling sea, or relax at one of the two on-site bars. The hotel's restaurant also serves up delicious local Sicilian cuisine. Guests can also find ultimate R&R at the on-site premier spa where you can enjoy a variety of soothing treatments. Nearby attractions include the Valle dei Templi archeological site about five miles away, and the 11th-century Agrigento Cathedral about ten miles away.
Head to Ragusa Ibla, a captivating town known for its ornate Baroque architecture, charming churches, and the lush Giardino Ibleo. Featured in the popular series Il Commissario Montalbano, this historic gem boasts over 50 churches and a wealth of cultural heritage.
Continue to Modica for a visit to the acclaimed Sabadì chocolate shop, where you’ll sample award-winning artisanal treats, followed by lunch and an afternoon journey to Piazza Armerina to explore the Villa Romana del Casale, home to breathtaking Roman mosaics that vividly depict ancient life.
Day 4. Agrigento – Marsala – Salt Road – Palermo
Your day begins in Agrigento before arriving in Palermo for a relaxing evening.
Situated conveniently in the heart of Palermo, Italy, the Mercure Palermo Centro Hotel is the perfect accommodation to assist in exploring the beauty of this city! The hotel is just a short walk from various popular attractions including Teatro Politeama and the Teatro Massimo. Other attractions include the Palermo Cathedral, Via Maqueda, and Ballaro Palermo.
Fortunately, the Mercure Palermo Centro hotel is located only 15 miles from the nearest airport, Falcone-Borsellino. This magnificent accommodation features 93 comfortably modern rooms, two business meeting rooms, and a lavish Lobby Bar. Guests also have access to free WIFI, an attentive concierge service, and an on-site restaurant. Visitors are in for a wonderful stay in the heart of Palermo during their time at the Mercure Palermo Centro Hotel!
Located in the center of Palermo, Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal is a short walk to several forms of transportation including the ferry port and the train station! Additionally, visitors are within a 15-mile radius of the Falcone-Borsellino Airport. Around the hotel, visitors can enjoy a range of tourist attractions including the Palermo Cathedral, Foro Italico, and the Church of the Gesu.
During their stay, guests have access to an on-site bar and restaurant as well as a hot tub/jacuzzi! Guest rooms feature air-conditioning with complimentary Wi-Fi, a satellite LCD TV, and a mini-bar. All of the rooms include toiletries and a hairdryer as well. Complete with modern amenities and close proximity to an array of attractions, the Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal is a perfect choice for a long-term or short-term stay in Palermo!
Journey through the stunning Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the majestic ruins of ancient Akragas, including the iconic Temples of Juno, Concordia, and Hercules—true marvels of classical Greek design. Continue on to the delightful town of Marsala, known for Garibaldi’s historic landing and its vibrant Mediterranean character. As you stroll through its elegant streets, you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of noble residences and the intricate beauty of Baroque architecture that defines its historic center.
Delight in a special tour of the historic Florio Cellars, beginning with the impressive 19th-century vats still used to age Marsala wine. Wander through three atmospheric barrel chambers before savoring a light lunch paired with the estate’s signature wines. Afterwards, journey along the scenic Salt Road, where you’ll take in views of the Stagnone Islands and ancient salt pans—still active and among the oldest salt-producing sites in the world.
Day 5. Palermo – Monreale – Palermo
Start your day with a visit to Monreale before returning to Palermo.
Head to Monreale to explore its breathtaking Arab-Norman Cathedral, renowned for dazzling Byzantine mosaics and a cloister that exemplifies medieval artistry. The journey continues to Palermo, nestled along a bay beneath Mount Pellegrino, where centuries of history have shaped a city rich in architectural diversity. Highlights include visits to the multi-styled Cathedral, the ornate Martorana Church, and the golden Cappella Palatina, followed by a lunch of local specialties and an afternoon stroll past the grand Teatro Massimo and the elegant Pretoria Fountain before settling in for the evening.
Day 6. Palermo – Cefalu – Catania
Begin your day in the medieval town of Cefalù, then head to Catania’s UNESCO-listed city center.
Il Prinicpe Hotel Catania is set in a recently restored aristocratic building, located in the baroque heart of the historical centre of Catania. Enjoy stays in elegant and luxurious rooms while surrounded by stunning Sicilian Architecture! The hotel is located just a 20-minute walk from the beach, one mile from Catania Centrale Train Station, and about two miles from Catania Fontanarossa Airport.
All guest rooms are elegantly designed and furnished with a jacuzzi bath or shower, TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, mini-bar, and more. The dining room serves delicious local and international cuisine, and there is also an American piano bar for guests to relax and drink in.
The Romano House Hotel is a stylist return back to the 18th century designated in the center of Baroque Catania, perfectly constructed by artisan crafts and enhanced with modern technology. The environment is a nice crossover of past centuries with contemporary styles making it one of the more unique hotels around the Catania region.
Various designs of guest rooms are available whether you are looking for something simple or something avant-garde. Each room comes with a window, private bath, television, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi which is available throughout the hotel. The hotel's very own luxury restaurant, Il Riccio Restaurant, serves high-end Sicilian and Mediterranean style dishes. A house bar is also available on site, as well as a fitness center.
Set just near Catania's famous nightlife and business district, plenty of attractions are available to guests for outside entertainment and ease of access. Some of the noteworthy ones are the Bellini Theater, Villa Bellini (Park), and the Catania Cathedral. A stay at the Romano House Hotel will not only be extraordinary, but incredibly accessible.
Explore the coastal town of Cefalù, where the striking Norman Cathedral towers over the landscape with timeless elegance. Enjoy free time to wander the quaint cobbled streets or explore the Mandralisca Museum’s impressive art and archaeology collection, followed by a delicious lunch featuring Sicilian specialties.
Then head to Catania, where a walking tour through the historic center reveals its signature late-Baroque architecture crafted from Etna’s lava stone, including Duomo Square, the Cathedral of Sant'Agata, the iconic lava-stone Elephant, and the grand Monastery of San Benedetto along Via dei Crociferi—before settling in for the evening.
Day 7. Catania – Etna – Taormina - Catania
Visit Mount Etna, Taormina, and more before returning to Catania for your final evening.
Embark on a thrilling journey to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, where its dramatic, moon-like terrain offers awe-inspiring vistas and a truly memorable experience. At Rifugio Sapienza, explore the ancient, dormant Silvestri Craters and sample delicious local products like artisanal honey.
Then continue to the enchanting town of Taormina for a lunch of regional delicacies, a visit to the breathtaking Greco-Roman Theatre with panoramic views of the coastline and Etna, and free time to wander its quaint streets, browse artisan shops, or simply soak in the town’s timeless charm.
Day 8. Depart Italy
Your Sicilian getaway comes to an end today. After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Catania Airport for your return flight home.
Transfer to Catania airport
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
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