The Sicilian
9 nights
Traversed by the footprints of numerous ancient civilizations, modern-day Sicily continues to enchant with its hidden gems that unveil an unexplored facet of Italy. The rich tapestry of Sicilian history, influenced by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Germans, Spanish, Italians, and even the British, is evident in the island's diverse architecture, distinctive culture, and a culinary palette shaped by multiple influences.
Priced From:
$4789 pp *
Sales Ends: 30/04/2024
Travel Date: Various dates throughout 2024
Traversed by the footprints of numerous ancient civilizations, modern-day Sicily continues to enchant with its hidden gems that unveil an unexplored facet of Italy. The rich tapestry of Sicilian history, influenced by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Germans, Spanish, Italians, and even the British, is evident in the island's diverse architecture, distinctive culture, and a culinary palette shaped by multiple influences.
Embark on a journey along the glittering coastline, starting from the vibrant capital city of Palermo to the sophisticated Taormina Riviera. This odyssey promises not only breathtaking archaeological wonders and ancient artistic masterpieces but also a genuine and warm reception at every juncture, complemented by the availability of delightful gelato at every street corner.
Savour the essence of Sicily through its traditional treats like granita, cannoli, and Marsala wine, while indulging in a tasting session at Dolceria Bonajuto, Sicily's oldest chocolate factory. This Undiscovered Tour of Sicily ensures a sensory and cultural immersion, revealing the island's captivating allure beyond the well-trodden paths.
Based on select departures May - August 2024
Your Globus Tour includes:
9 nights’ First-Class or Superior First-Class Accommodation with private bath or shower.
Includes hotel taxes, porterage, tips and service charges
Most meals including 9 breakfasts; 2 lunches; 6 dinners;
Services of a Tour Director
Transport by private, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available)
We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect holiday—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides (with headsets to hear every word), to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites!
Explore Italy's renowned archaeological wonders at the Neapolis Archaeological Park of Syracuse, featuring the majestic Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheatre.
Indulge in a delightful chocolate tasting experience at Dolceria Bonajuto, Sicily's oldest chocolate factory.
Immerse yourself in the charming town of Marsala, where you'll discover the art of salt production and savour the flavours of Marsala wine and almond biscuits.
Day 1: Arrive in Palermo, Italy
Welcome to Palermo! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
Day 2: Palermo
Sicilian Specialties PALERMO Guided sightseeing includes the Church of Immacolata and a visit to the cathedral. Scenic drive to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d'Oro and a visit to the Norman Cathedral. Enjoy lunch with Sicilian specialties panelle (chickpea fritters), arancini (stuffed rice balls), and cannoli (fried pastry rolls with sweet ricotta cheese). (B,L)
Local Favourite, Local Tastes: Sicily's love affair with food goes back a long way. Cooking traditions originating from the Greeks, Arabs, and Normans blend with those from Spain and North Africa resulting in a fabulous melting pot of flavours and unique dishes. Celebrate this feast of cultures with traditional specialties and sweet confections savouring some of the world-renowned delicacies.
Day 3: Palermo – Erice – Marsala - Mazara Del Vallo
Sweet & Salty Sicily ERICE Visit the hilltop town and sample almond biscuits and Marsala wine at the well-known Pasticceria Maria Grammatico. MARSALA Visit a salt mill en route to Mazara del Vallo. (B,D) 99 mi / 160 km.
TOUR Highlight Culture & Tradition: Lagoons, salt pans and windmills can be found along the coastline near Marsala. Learn all about the production of salt when visiting one of the original salt mills.
Day 4: Mazara Del Vallo – Sciacca - Agrigento
Timeless Temples MAZARA DEL VALLO Guided sightseeing includes the cathedral and a walk in the Old Town. SCIACCA Photo stop at the panoramic viewpoint. AGRIGENTO Take a guided walking tour at the Valley of Temples. (B,D) 93 mi / 150 km
Tour Highlight Ancient Archaeology: The ruins of Akragas remain Sicily's most amazing archaeological site. The impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia sits in spectacular setting upon a ridge where it served as a beacon for homecoming sailors and today draws enthralled visitors to revel in the remarkable Valley of the Temples.
Day 5: Agrigento – Piazza Armerina – Caltagirone - Ragusa
Ancient Artistry in Sicily PIAZZA ARMERINA Take a guided visit to the Villa Romana del Casale with the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. CALTAGIRONE Orientation and free time to see the Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte en route to Ragusa. (B,D) 130 mi / 210 km
Tour Highlight Art & Architecture: Explore the extraordinary example of Roman power in one of the most luxurious villas of its kind in the Italian countryside. Marvel at the magnificently preserved mosaics that embellish the Villa Romana del Casale, designed and installed by African mosaic workers and the strength of the Roman influence and power throughout the Mediterranean region.
Day 6: Ragusa. Excursion to Modica
Historic Streets & Sweets RAGUSA Guided walking tour includes the city's oldest district, the Ibla, the 19th-century gardens of Giardini Iblei, and St. George Cathedral. Visit an authentic Carrettieri (Sicilian carts) workshop. Free time. MODICA Enjoy an orientation walk with a [LF] chocolate tasting at the famous Dolceria Bonajuto, Sicily's oldest chocolate factory. Dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) 20 mi / 32 km
Local Favourite Local Tastes: For 150 years, the family tradition of chocolate making has been passed down through the generations of the Banajuto family in Modica. L'Antica Dolceria Bonajuto delights chocolate lovers with its traditional recipes and confections as it has done for more than a century.
Day 7: Ragusa – Noto – Syracuse
World Stages NOTO Walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele to admire San Nicolo Cathedral. SYRACUSE Guided visit to the Archaeological Park features the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheatre. (B) 56 mi / 90 km
Tour Highlight Architecture & Archaeology: Discover the extraordinary evidence of history found at Neapolis Archaeological Park of Siracusa. The stars of this show are the magnificent ancient ruins of the Greek Theatre and remarkable Roman Amphitheatre which are revered as one of the greatest archaeological sites in all of Italy.
Day 8: Syracuse – Catania – Taormina Riviera
Coastal Treasures CATANIA Take an orientation walk with free time to browse in Piazza del Duomo and Via Etnea. Take a scenic drive en route to Taormina Riviera with free time this afternoon and evening. (B) 75 mi / 120 km
Tour Highlight Culture & Tradition: Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily's east coast. It sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, Europe's tallest volcano. The city's wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell 'Elefante statue and richly decorated St. Agata Cathedral. Nearby, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.
Day 9: Taormina Riviera Excursion to Savoca
Frozen in Time SAVOCA Orientation walk followed by a [LF] Granita (semi-frozen drink), and brioche tasting at Bar Vitelli. TAORMINA RIVIERA Orientation walk and free time for lunch. Visit the Greek Theatre, followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) 43 mi / 70 km
Local Favourite Local Tastes: Not quite the same as sorbet, the Sicilian invention of granita is Sicily's take on frozen concoctions that varies with the delightful tastes of lemon, mandarin orange, jasmine, almond, mint, coffee, or berries. A frozen blend of Sicilian pistachios is also a tempting way to enjoy this traditional treat.
Day 10: Taormina Riviera
Safe travels until we meet again! Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. The nearest airport is Catania. (B)
Terms and conditions apply. All care is taken to promote correct pricing, is subject to availability and will be confirmed at time of reservation. All prices are per person, twin share and include any applicable charges and savings. A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required within 7 days or by 03/04/2024 (whichever comes first) to secure reservation and offers. Further terms of use apply. Offers not combinable with any other promotion except Welcome Back Credit. Offers applicable to singles - single supplement applies. Offers reliant on availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Offers may be withdrawn or amended at any time without notice. Additional restrictions may apply, refer to the website https://www.globustours.co.nz. Professional service fees may apply.