Italy: Highlights of Sicily

8 Days | Explore the heart of the Mediterranean on this Sicilian adventure

4.6 out of 5 based on 7 reviews submitted.
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EUR €2,237
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Calling all sun-seeking adventurers. Dramatic cliffside villages, Sicilian sunshine, clear waters and delicious seafood are all waiting for you on an 8-day trip through this unique region of Italy. From the volcanic valleys of Mt Etna to the timeworn streets of Syracuse and the Baroque wonders Ragusa, get ready to discover the varied sides of Sicily. Plus, take a step back in time as you explore the ruins of the Valley of the temples, and learn of the rich anti-mafia history of Palermo. Get lost in the charm of Sicily; eat good food, soak up the Mediterranean sun, learn of the incredible history in this region and get closer to nature.

Trip overview

Map of Italy: Highlights Of Sicily including Italy
Start
Catania, Italy
Finish
Palermo, Italy
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
Italy
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
ZMSL
This trip generates 20 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Take a drive up the towering Mt. Etna, one of the greatest natural beauties of the Mediterranean and Europe’s largest active volcano and get a chance to walk into an extinct crater.
  • Be swept away by Sicilian charm as you explore the backstreets and cobblestone alleys in the timeless old town of Syracuse, Noto and Ragusa.
  • Take a step back in time with a guided tour of Temple of the Valleys which brings to life the full glory of ancient Greece and its myths, legends, gods and goddesses.
  • Join a special tour that showcases the anti-mafia movement in Palermo, visiting sites and people who played an important part in the turbulent history of the city.
  • Enjoy a perfect balance of free time and included activities on this trip for you to make your own discoveries, with our professional leader helping you make the most of it.

Is this trip right for you?
  • Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Many hotel rooms in Europe are not equipped with air-conditioning, and the cooling system on local trains can be broken on a regular basis. Note also that during peak holiday season beaches can be quite busy. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
  • Hotel rooms in Europe can seem rather small by American or Australian standards and often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
  • On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.
  • If you have more time to explore the region you can extend your trip and see more of Italy by starting your travels in Rome. Check out our trip 'Rome to Sicily' (trip code ZMSFC). Most departure dates are designed to create this perfect combination trip.

Itinerary

Map of Italy: Highlights Of Sicily including Italy

Inclusions

Meals

7 breakfasts

Transport

Public bus, Private vehicle

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nights)

Activities
  • Mt Etna - Day Trip
  • Siracusa - Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • Noto & Ragusa - Day Trip
  • Agrigento - Guided visit Valley of the Temples
  • Erice - local sweets tasting
  • Palermo - Anti-Mafia Movement Tour
Add on activities
  • Siracusa - Castello Maniace - EUR7
  • Siracusa - Cathedral - EUR2
  • Siracusa - Archaeological Museum - EUR14
  • Siracusa - Neapolis Archaeological Park - EUR10
  • Monreale - Cathedral & Cloister - EUR6

Dates and availability

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip. Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your agent for further information.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Reviews

4.6 out of 5 based on 7 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

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Megan · Traveled October 2023
A great introduction to Sicily. Etna, Erice and Valley of the Temples were highlights. Interesting contrast of places visited in history, architecture and food with some longer travel days.
Review submitted 25 Oct 2023

Bethelle · Traveled October 2023
Sicily is a fabulous place to visit - wonderful history and the food is delicious. The tour was great - took in all the places of interest - historical ruins; small medieval towns; swimming spots. All just wonderful
Review submitted 23 Oct 2023

Cate · Traveled October 2023
From Catania to Palermo, Sicily this Intrepid trip was terrific - our tour leader Katia Sparta was well organised and her knowledge , along with information provided by local tour guides made this trip memorable for us
Review submitted 11 Oct 2023

Benny · Traveled October 2023
This tour gives a great overview of Sicily in a week. It offers a mix of organised activity and free time. I would now like to return to Sicily and spend more exploring it in more detail.
Review submitted 12 Oct 2023

Abi · Traveled July 2023
Sicily is beautiful. However I would check beforehand the age range of other tour participants. Going a slower speed to accomodate an older age range can really damped things for a 20-something year old. Otherwise Sicily is stunning, and a must-see location for anyone going to Italy.
Review submitted 24 Aug 2023
Italy: Highlights of Sicily
From
EUR €2,237