Sorrento & Sicily
It's always sun-day in Southern Italy
Immerse yourself in culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on this 7-night Italian adventure! Enjoy stays in Sorrento and Taormina, and take advantage of included tours, cooking classes, and limoncello tastings. With your own rental car, you'll have the opportunity to explore nearby must-sees, like Pompeii, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Mount Etna, and more!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Naples (NAP), out of Catania (CTA)
- Manual rental car for your time in Sorrento- upgrade to automatic available
- Pickup and drop off at Naples airport
- 3 nights in Sorrento at the Hotel Gardenia or similar
- Limoncello Factory visit & tasting
- One-way economy class flight from Naples (NAP) to Catania (CTA)
- Manual rental car for your time in Sicily- upgrade to automatic available
- Pickup and drop off at Catania airport
- 4 nights in Taormina at the Hotel Isabella or similar
- Taormina Cooking Class and Food Market Tour
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Find a cute pastry shop in Taormina and bite into the best cannoli of your life.
- When in Sorrento, visit the nearby towns of Positano and Ravello.
-
Your initial flight lands in Naples. Why not try some pizza in its original birthplace?
-
Travel back in time at the ancient Greco-Roman theater in Taormina.
-
With Capri near Sorrento and Isola Bella near Taormina, you'll be surrounded by natural beauty.
It's history, it's culture, it's cuisine - it's Italy! With your very own rental car, you'll be able to explore all the ins and outs of Southern Italy and Sicily. Feel the warm wind in your hair as you journey from Naples, to Sorrento, to Taormina down in Sicily!Â
Your first three nights will be spent in Sorrento, a seaside gem in Southern Italy. Marvel at jaw-dropping architecture and immerse yourself in the colorful spirit of the Amalfi Coast. Surrounded by Pompei, Mount Vesuvius, and picturesque towns like Positano and Ravello, there is tons to see in and around Sorrento. Why not treat yourself to a boat ride out to the stunning island of Capri? During your time in Sorrento, you'll enjoy an included limoncello factory visit & tasting. Saluti!
The rest of your vacation will be spent in the charming hilltop town of Taormina. Perched above the Mediterranean Sea on one side, and Mount Etna on the other. Besides postcard-worthy views, Taormina boasts pristine beaches, storybook streets, historical wonders, and world-renowned restaurants. During your stay in Taormina, you'll be treated to a Cooking Class and Food Market Tour, on which you'll enjoy local tastings, a guided trip to a produce market, as well as an authentic hands-on culinary experience. In your free time, you can catch some rays on Isola Bella, hike Mount Etna, and visit the famous ancient Greco-Roman theater that's still in use today.
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 into Naples (NAP), out of Catania (CTA)
- Manual rental car for your time in Sorrento- upgrade to automatic available
- Pickup and drop off at Naples airport
- 3 nights in Sorrento at the Hotel Gardenia or similar
- Limoncello Factory visit & tasting
- One-way economy class flight from Naples (NAP) to Catania (CTA)
- Manual rental car for your time in Sicily- upgrade to automatic available
- Pickup and drop off at Catania airport
- 4 nights in Taormina at the Hotel Isabella or similar
- Taormina Cooking Class and Food Market Tour
- Breakfast daily
-
Find a cute pastry shop in Taormina and bite into the best cannoli of your life.
- When in Sorrento, visit the nearby towns of Positano and Ravello.
-
Your initial flight lands in Naples. Why not try some pizza in its original birthplace?
-
Travel back in time at the ancient Greco-Roman theater in Taormina.
-
With Capri near Sorrento and Isola Bella near Taormina, you'll be surrounded by natural beauty.
It's history, it's culture, it's cuisine - it's Italy! With your very own rental car, you'll be able to explore all the ins and outs of Southern Italy and Sicily. Feel the warm wind in your hair as you journey from Naples, to Sorrento, to Taormina down in Sicily!Â
Your first three nights will be spent in Sorrento, a seaside gem in Southern Italy. Marvel at jaw-dropping architecture and immerse yourself in the colorful spirit of the Amalfi Coast. Surrounded by Pompei, Mount Vesuvius, and picturesque towns like Positano and Ravello, there is tons to see in and around Sorrento. Why not treat yourself to a boat ride out to the stunning island of Capri? During your time in Sorrento, you'll enjoy an included limoncello factory visit & tasting. Saluti!
The rest of your vacation will be spent in the charming hilltop town of Taormina. Perched above the Mediterranean Sea on one side, and Mount Etna on the other. Besides postcard-worthy views, Taormina boasts pristine beaches, storybook streets, historical wonders, and world-renowned restaurants. During your stay in Taormina, you'll be treated to a Cooking Class and Food Market Tour, on which you'll enjoy local tastings, a guided trip to a produce market, as well as an authentic hands-on culinary experience. In your free time, you can catch some rays on Isola Bella, hike Mount Etna, and visit the famous ancient Greco-Roman theater that's still in use today.
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.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Sorrento!
Ciao, Italy! Upon arrival in Naples, collect your rental car and take an hour-long drive to sunny Sorrento. Keep your eyes focused out the window, as you'll be passing stunning scenery along the way! If time allows, consider a stop in the legendary city of Pompei, where time froze after a devastating volcano eruption in 79 A.D.Â
Upon arrival in Sorrento, check into your hotel and settle in. Tonight, explore the city on foot and treat yourself to a delicious first-night meal at a seaside restaurant.Â
This intimate hotel boasts exceptional modern Mediterranean architecture, designed with eco-friendly materials that support its commitment to safeguarding the local landscape and environment (the hotel was awarded the EcoWorldHotel quality trademark and is ISO 14001 certified).
The 27 well-appointed guestrooms feature private balconies with tables and chairs.
Guests will also enjoy the swimming pool, fitness center, private parking, and delightful panoramic rooftop terrace with pergola, providing stunning views of the Bay of Naples.
Take a quick stroll to the beach from the elegant Hotel Corallo Sorrento, looking out over Sorrento Bay from the stunning clifftop of Sant'Agnello. Luxuriate in the heated infinity pool that looks over the cliff or enjoy some wine in the dining room with glass windows where the sunset brings new color to the horizon.Â
Rooms come equipped with modern amenities including air conditioning, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a minibar, and more. Most rooms have a view of the crystalline sea, and select rooms include a balcony or terrace. Sitting close to the center of Sorrento, the hotel makes for a perfect base to visit iconic sights like the ruins of Pompeii, and the Islands of Ischia and Capri.
The Art Hotel Gran Paradiso is located in a unique position with impressive views over the Gulf of Naples. Orange, lemon and olive trees are immersed in beautiful green gardens where it is possible to enjoy the best view from the Sorrento Coast to the Vesuvius; the protagonist of this unique scenery together with the islands of Ischia and Procida. Situated in Sorrento, this eco-friendly hotel is less than 2 miles from the Museo Correale di Terranova, Piazza Tasso, and Sedile Dominova. Deep Valley of the Mills and Basilica di Sant'Antonio are also within 2 miles. The Art Hotel Gran Paradiso dominates the pleasant city of Sorrento. The terraces, the bar and the beautiful panoramic swimming pool are all perfectly integrated to exalt the natural beauty. The 100 rooms of the hotel are functional and furnished with simplicity and style, creating a fresh and relaxing atmosphere, essential characteristics for the relaxation and the comfort of all guests. Staying at Gran Paradiso means living the charm of an Art Hotel always attentive to the most modern details and to the latest trends of art and design.Â
Experience true Italian hospitality at the charming Hotel Antiche Mura, located in the main square of beautiful Sorrento. Enjoy the hotel's lush grounds, stylish interior, and elegant traditional decor. The rooms' bright, warm tones match those of the lemon trees, orange trees, and beautiful pink azaleas that grow in the outdoor garden. Stroll down the main hall and admire the majestic columns, marble statues, golden chandeliers, and abundance of artwork.
Head outside and relax by the large sparkling pool. Take a pleasant swim, or lounge in the warm sun next to the citrus grove garden. Work up an appetite from swimming? Grab a tasty salad, pizza, or sandwich at the poolside snack bar. Gawk at stunning views of the ancient "Valley of the Mills" while you drift away to peaceful paradise.Â
Unwind with an evening cocktail at the classy American Bar located in the lobby. Watch the sun set over the valley on the outdoor terrace, then return to your luxurious room and enjoy amenities such as free WiFi, air conditioning, and satellite TV. Wake up feeling refreshed and treat yourself to a delicious breakfast on the garden patio.Â
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A warm and welcoming atmosphere, a relaxed ambience with every type of comfort and the spectacular setting of the Gulf of Naples, combined with the cordiality and professionalism of the staff, are among the many features that make a stay at the Grand Hotel De La Ville unique. Its public areas and accommodations are decorated with finely inlaid furniture made by local craftsmen, and lovely marble flooring. The guestrooms, with balconies overlooking the Gulf of Naples or the splendid hotel gardens, are the ideal place to rest after a day spent at the sea or discovering the historical and natural wonders of the Sorrentine Peninsula. The hotel offers elegant regional and international a la carte dining, two American bars, a private beach and two swimming pools - one in the solarium with magnificent views, and the other nestled in the hotels lush and verdant gardens. A very special feature of the hotel is the scenic roof garden, a magical place where relaxation and tranquility combine to create a corner of paradise with an enchanting backdrop that only the gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius can offer.
Grand Hotel Capodimonte is the only hotel in Sorrento with five cascading pools, where you can enjoy a scenic view of the magnificent city of Sorrento, Vesuvius and the entire Gulf of Naples. The hotel is situated in a quiet and panoramic area a few miles away from the city center, surrounded by the lush vegetation of the Sorrento plain, positioned on the rocky mountain dominating the town of Sorrento and the enchanting Gulf of Naples.
A highly professional staff will welcome guests in the impressive lobby decorated with local inlaid wood furniture and marble stairs. The pools, nestled in a green oasis surrounded by hills and magnificent olive and lemon trees, are the ideal place to relax and enjoy the spacious terraces, with their panoramic and breathtaking views. Rooms and suites are all furnished classically and elegantly and are equipped with air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Dining options are both elegant and casual and feature the fresh cuisine of the hotel’s surroundings.
Day 2. Sorrento
Wake up and smell the lemons! Today, enjoy an included limoncello factory visit and tasting. Sip refreshing limoncello and nibble on some fresh cookies. Delizioso!Â
The rest of the day is yours to spend however you'd like. Relax on the beach, or discover the beauty of the nearby Amalfi Coast!Â
Limoncello Factory Visit & Tasting in Sorrento
Enjoy a visit to the Cassano Limoncello factory at its beautiful location on the sea. See firsthand the small details that help ensure perfection with the liquor, including the peeling of the Sorrento lemon - which is done entirely by hand.
Following the demonstration, enjoy a tasting of Limoncello liquor and hand-made cookies. Delizioso!
Day 3. Sorrento
You may want to spend today in picturesque Positano. This picture-perfect town is one of the most sought-after vacation hotspots in Italy. Admire cliffs of cascading pastel houses, bright blue waters, and pebbly beaches.
Another option today is Capri. Consider a boat ride out to the Marina Grande and spend the day on this postcard-worthy island! Blue Grotto, here you come!
Day 4. Sorrento - Taormina
Enjoy breakfast, then wave goodbye to Sorrento and get ready for a quick flight to Sicily!
Drive to Naples, return your rental car, and board your plane to Catania. Upon arrival in Sicily, collect your rental car and head to Taormina. This drive is around 1 hour, so you may want to stop along the way. Spring for a beautiful lunch at a waterfront restaurant, visit areas of natural beauty, or stroll around quaint towns. You never know what you'll find!
When you reach Taormina, you'll instantly fall in love. Check into your hotel and settle in, then begin exploring. Wander through charming streets of bakeries and boutiques, and feast your eyes on views of Mount Etna and the bright blue sea.
Nestled in Taormina's historic old town, Hotel Isabella boasts elegance and comfort on the city's main shopping street, Corso Umberto. Check-in with the inviting 24-hour reception team and admire the lobby's classic decor, then, find your room! Open the door to rich colors, comfortable bedding, and modern amenities like free WiFi and crisp air conditioning. Many rooms even have balconies and views of the Ionian Sea down below. Once you settle in, take a 5-minute walk to the famous Ancient Greek Theater of Taormina.
Just steps from Taormina's adorable center, this hillside beauty boasts a sparkling outdoor pool and stunning sea views. As you step into the lobby, admire elegant decor and warm Sicilian hospitality. Open the door to your spacious room and find plush bedding, crisp air conditioning, free WI-Fi, and luxurious bath amenities. Some rooms even have views of Mount Etna or the Bay of Naxos! Spend your free time swimming, working out in the fitness center, or pampering yourself with a spa treatment. When you work up an appetite, walk to any of the many surrounding restaurants, or treat yourself to a romantic dinner at the stunning on-site garden restaurant.Â
Find beauty and tranquility at Hotel Caparena & Wellness Club, located on gorgeous garden grounds just steps from the beach. Check-in with the welcoming 24-hour reception team, then head to your room. Upon opening the door, you'll find crisp air conditioning, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, free WiFi, and much more. Many rooms even have balconies and sea or garden views!Â
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool. You may also want to take a dip in the hot tub, work out in the fitness center, or steam your stresses away in the sauna. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to an unforgettable meal at Caparena's onsite restaurant, serving up a range of mouthwatering Sicilian favorites.
Although Taormina's historic center is just over 2 miles away from Hotel Caparena, a free shuttle bus is provided! The beachfront position of this hotel provides a quiet escape, with convenient access to the heart of town.Â
Day 5. Taormina
Recharge with breakfast, but don't fill up too much - you're in for a fun, food-filled day! This morning, you'll embark on your included Taormina Cooking Class & Food Market Tour. Visit a local market and pick fresh ingredients, enjoy a tasting from an authentic Sicilian delicatessen, and learn to prepare and cook homemade dishes! After all the work is done, you'll sit down to lunch.
The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. Stroll the Corso Umberto, visit the Teatro Antico di Taormina, and snap incredible photos from Piazza IX Aprile! If you're looking for scenic beauty, venture out to the "Jewel of Taormina," Isola Bella.
Taormina Cooking Class and Food Market Tour (Small Group)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
- Visit to Taormina’s Food Market
- Food tasting from a typical Sicilian delicatessen
- Pick fresh products for your cooking class
- Learn to prepare and cook homemade dishes
Meeting at the Gate of Porta Messina, you'll begin with a guided tour of the Taormina market. Shop for fresh ingredients and enjoy learning about the local produce! You'll also take part in a small tasting of salamis and cheeses - yum! Back at the Porta Messina Restaurant, the chef will explain the recipes in your program while you sip on some warm coffee. The preparation and the cooking of the food will then start, with the making of hand-made pasta as a highlight!
Once the dishes are prepared, everybody will be invited to the table for a typical local lunch with delicious accompanying wines. Afterwards, each participant will receive a certificate and an autographed apron as a souvenir of this special day! Mangia, mangia!Â
Day 6. Taormina
Fuel up with a yummy breakfast - your day is about to erupt with fun! Consider taking a 1-hour drive to impressive Mount Etna. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world's most active - and most beautiful - volcanoes. Take a hike up, or consider a tour!
Day 7. Taormina
Today, you might want to soak up some Mediterranean sun! Lounge on Taormina's picture-perfect beaches: Isola Bella, Mazzaro, or the shore of Giardini Naxos. See why these coastal beauties are some of the most sought-after beach destinations in the world!
Spend the rest of your final day checking off your Taormina bucket-list. Make sure you've seen all the sights you'd hoped to see, and that you've eaten at all the restaurants you've dreamed of dining at!
Day 8. Depart Italy
Get one last look at Taormina before you journey to Catania Airport. Return your rental car, find your gate, and spend your flight home dreaming about your next adventure!