Eastern Sicily: Explore the ancient and Baroque wonders of the island
Come with us to Eastern Sicily for the adventure of a lifetime exploring the island's ancient and Baroque past. Discover vibrant, exciting towns and landscapes, meet the locals and enjoy experiences that you’ll keep in your heart forever.
Eastern Sicily is a heady combination of history, culture, local tastes, brilliant wine and artisan crafts passed down by generations. And of course, remarkable people. Our tour itinerary takes you to many of the island’s classic highlights. Plus, of course,, we uncover a myriad of hidden secrets. From breathtaking Taormina to the slopes of Mount Etna and charming Ortigia, you’ll experience ancient ruins, magical landscapes and the ultimate in Sicilian hospitality.
SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE : 10 GUESTS MAXIMUM
Our group trips are small and intimate. With a maximum of 10 guests on tour, we can enjoy more intimate settings and personal experiences than is possible with larger groups.
Leading our Sicilian immersion, your host Olivia is an Australian woman who has lived in Italy for 3 years. After spending several years living and working in the northern Piedmont region, she now lives in Rome. Olivia has a huge love for the land of la dolce vita, cooking, food and wine. She has spent the last few years learning Italian (not to mention some Piemontese dialect!), immersing herself in the culture, and working on organic farms, wineries and agriturismi across Italy. Check out Olivia's adventures in Italy on her Instagram @livguine
Sicily's second largest city, Catania, is a vibrant hub of contrasts. Visit the famous fish market to observe centuries' old traditions and stalls showcasing the catch of the day and admire the resplendent Baroque architecture - from churches to palazzi. Saint Agatha is the city's patron saint and there are buildings and items of devotion to her on every street corner. Of course, looming in the distance, Mt Etna is omnipresent and simply beautiful.
Sicilian food is fun, fresh and full of seasonal goodness from the surrounding hills and sea. We make sure you try the tastiest dishes - from street food like arancini and market fresh fish, to hearty eggplant pasta dishes and Sicilian sweets. Granita is served with warm brioche for breakfast and who could resist a freshly piped cannolo or two. Wine is an important part of life in Sicily also. We meet some up and coming wine makers who work magic with indigenous grape varieties.
Mount Etna is known as "Mother" to Sicilians. She is everywhere, smouldering in the background. This active volcano provides fertile soil for local crops - some of the world's best pistachios come from Bronte on the slopes of Etna. But, of course, her eruptions have been the source of much pain. We visit the volcano to understand its deep meaning for Sicilians and it place in their lore and culture.
It takes a special sort of person to buck the modern trends and dedicate themselves to continually improving a skill or craft. During our time in eastern Sicily you'll meet some of those people who create beautiful ceramics and traditional painting with care and attention. Meeting these people is an experience you'll never forget and we're sure you'll be inspired by their creativity and resilience.
Did you watch the second series of "White Lotus"? While the plot may not be to everyone's tastes, the scenery was definitely inspiring. Taormina was one of the top locations for the series and it's easy to see why. This charming town set on a hill overlooking picturesque Isola Bella, is blessed with a remarkable Ancient Greek theater and Etna smouldering away in the background.
Our journey starts in Catania at the foot of smouldering Mount Etna. A city of contrasts, this vibrant Baroque metropolis is the perfect introduction to our time in Sicily.
In Catania you’ll find opulent palazzi on one corner and the bustling fish market around another. It’s a place where ancient rituals coexist with modern life. Check into our hotel, explore the city and in the evening get together with the group for your welcome aperitivo with your host and fellow travelers.
MEALS: Welcome aperitivo, Dinner with wine
ACCOMMODATION: Luxury 4 star city hotel in Catania - check in from 3pm
Mount Etna’s craters look like a scene from the planet Mars. We visit this unique landscape a and tread the volcanic soil that has always defined the island of Sicily. Civilizations and invaders have come come and gone from Sicily but Etna remains the great mother of this land.
Our expert local guide takes us safely around the craters and lava flows and explains the topography and volcanic history along the way. Views from this area are breathtaking so it’s definitely a day not to forget your camera.
With an appreciation of why the volcano is both feared and revered, we continue to an outstanding local winery that is pioneering a renaissance of winemaking in this region. We meet the wine makers and discover the organic and sustainable practices and techniques deployed in creating exciting wines from native grape varieties.
Of course, wine in Sicily is always enjoyed with a meal. Our lunch today pairs the wine from this property with local and seasonal produce that it was made to compliment. And it’s then you’ll understand the symbiosis and connection between the people, the land, and their food and wine.
In the afternoon we return to Catania to relax or explore the city, before meeting again for a delicious dinner.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Dinner with wine ACTIVITIES: Guided tour of Mount Etna craters with expert local guide, and winery visit ACCOMMODATION: 4 star luxury boutique hotel in Catania
Today we set off for one of the most popular towns in all of Sicily - spectacular Taormina! More recently made famous thanks to HBO’s White Lotus series, we’ll delve deeper into the thousands of years of history that run through this beautiful place.
Draped in blossoming bougainvillea, Taormina is perched up high on a hill above the sea with a stunning view over the mainland. Together, we walk its elegant and refined streets as we tour the town with our expert local guide. We explore the incredible Greek Theater and have the chance to admire the exceptional views of both Mount Etna and the coastline.
Enjoy the rest of the day with some free time over a long lunch, relaxing at Isola Bella, or shopping. You can take the cable car to the Mazzaro Beach and lounge at a Lido on the pristine white sand, or even hire a boat to take you to the crystal-clear Blue Grotto. Don’t miss a granita from the best bar in town either at the iconic Bam Bar!
We head back to Catania in the late afternoon with time to freshen up before we meet for a seafood feast at the market. Mornings here are chaotic with the sounds and colors of locals buying the freshest clams, swordfish and tuna. Evenings are atmospheric but a lot more relaxed. Sit back after wandering this iconic institution of the city (operating since the 900s) as we sip on a crisp Etna white wine paired with the freshest of fish.
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner with wine ACTIVITIES: Guided tour of Taormina and Greek theater ACCOMMODATION: 4 star luxury boutique hotel in Catania
This morning we depart for Baroque Val di Noto, but not before making an exciting stop on the way. Colorful Caltagirone is festooned in the ceramic tiles for which the town is best known. The artisan origins of the city pre-date Arab occupation, however as we learn about Sicily’s layered past, the Arabs left their mark in the form of glazing techniques used to this day.
We’ll explore the town with our expert archeologist guide, taking note of the impressive 142 steps of the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte inlaid with ornate tiles for spectacular effect.
Later, we visit the workshop of a third generation artisan family entrusted with maintaining and restoring Caltigirone’s public ceramic works. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase a piece of the highest quality and craftsmanship here.Laden with our one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces, we head off for a magical lunch at a local winery. Discover hyper local grape varieties you’ve likely never heard of before, all paired superbly with seasonal dishes.
After lunch we make our way to our lovely villa hotel in Ragusa. This carefully restored 19th century villa preserves the magical atmosphere of bygone times and is an oasis in the heart of the city. Enjoy some time to relax, and unpack before we head into town for aperitivo and dinner. Bring your cameras- the view is magnifico!
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Aperitivo, Dinner with wine ACTIVITIES: Guided tour of Caltagirone with artisan workshop visit ACCOMMODATION: 4 star villa hotel in Ragusa
Our adventure today begins in delicious Modica - a town known for its delicious chocolate. Here the locals prepare their sweet treats according to ancient traditions dating back to the Aztecs.
We meet our local guide for a walk through town as they recount stories and legends about this hilltop beauty, admire ornate and beautiful Cathedral San Giorgio and gaze upon the town from up high. Like Ragusa, Modica is full of steps that take you down little alleys and offer spectacular views, and intriguing history.
After a delicious lunch in town, we’re off for an extra sweet experience as we learn to make the town’s iconic chocolate. Cooked over a low fire, the chocolate remains granular. You can enjoy it plain or get creative with other delicious flavor combinations. With our sweet tooths satisfied, we return to our villa hotel to relax and reset.
This afternoon, we have time to delve a little deeper into gorgeous Ragusa. But first, we’re off to visit some local artisans who have dedicated themselves to the painting and restoration of traditional Sicilian carts. This beautiful art is a dying profession and a purely oral tradition handed down from centuries from master to pupil. Step inside their workshop for a glimpse into the past, before it disappears forever…
Mesmerized and inspired by this painstakingly beautiful work, we have some free time to wander and explore Ragusa. This evening we meet in town for a delicious dinner paired with matching wines.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Dinner with wine ACTIVITIES: Guided walking tour of Modica, chocolate making class, local artisan visit ACCOMMODATION: 4 star villa hotel in Ragusa
The final leg of our trip takes us to pretty as a picture Ortigia. On our way to the island, the old town of Siracusa, we can’t miss a stop at the beautiful Baroque gem Noto. The great earthquake of 1693 completely destroyed the towns of the Val di Noto. First among equals, Noto was completely rebuilt in the exuberant Baroque style you see today.
Our expert local guide shows us the grand palazzi and beautiful churches of the town. Enjoy the bird’s eye view from the opulent Chiesa Santa Chiara where you’ll find an enchanting view of the Baroque interior and sweeping vistas of the city of Noto from the rooftop.
With stomachs rumbling, we stop for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy tasty seasonal Sicilian dishes. Enjoy a little free time in pretty Noto afterwards and be sure to grab an almond granita from iconic Caffè Sicilia along the way (don’t resist, you’ll be talking about this for the longest time)! before we venture onwards towards Ortigia.
We check-in to our luxury boutique hotel before you have some free time to unwind and relax. Exploring Ortigia’s laneways and seaside vistas is one of life’s ultimate pleasures and there will be plenty of time for that this afternoon. You may want to peek inside the ornate Baroque cathedral or indulge in an “only in Sicily” cannolo. We’ll share the best addresses of course!
This evening we will continue our food discovery journey by rolling up our sleeves and learning to cook some traditional dishes at a local’s home. Sit back and enjoy our incredible work together over a glass of wine - an unforgettable home cooked meal you would never find in a restaurant!
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Dinner with wine ACTIVITIES: Noto tour and ACCOMMODATION: 4 star boutique hotel in Ortigia
There’s something about Ortigia that pulls you in. Maybe it’s the labyrinth of streets opening onto elegant piazza or the turquoise sea lapping at the shoreline. Regardless, it’s a special place where time seems to stand still yet life continues in glorious chaos on this tiny peninsula.
We start our day at the fish market in Ortigia to check out its vibrant produce, before wandering across the bridge towards Siracusa's archaeological park where you’ll discover the stories and history behind one of Europe’s largest surviving Greek Theaters, the Ear of Dionysus and later Roman ruins.
In awe of the greatness still standing all these centuries later, we head back to Ortigia for a delicious and fun market lunch. Spend some time relaxing back at the hotel in the afternoon, or why not go for a final shop in one of the many excellent boutiques in town!
We begin our final evening on the water for an unforgettable sunset cruise that will leave you speechless. Enjoy views of the Maniace castle from the sea and look back out over Ortigia’s colorful facades, majestic churches and protective walls. We duck in and out of local grottoes including of course a heart-shaped one, known as the grotto of love.
Afterwards, we head into town for a memorable meal to end your time with us in Sicily. We’ll recount the treasures of Ortigia and out other highlights of eastern Sicily (and no doubt vow to return again) over a delicious dinner prepared with seasonal and slow food principles in mind.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Dinner with wine ACTIVITIES: Siracusa Archaeological park and Ortigia tour and sunset boat cruise ACCOMMODATION: 4 star boutique hotel in Ortigia
It’s time now to say our farewells. Our trip has given you a glimpse of Sicilian history, culture, food and wine – influenced over 2,500 years by many civilizations who all left their mark. We have no doubt you’ll take a little piece of Sicily home with your in your heart.
Group departure transfers to Catania airport or train station will be arranged for a morning departure. Want to explore Sicily further on your own? Should you want some assistance we are happy to put you in touch with our trusted ground partners and assist with practical advice.
MEALS: Breakfast TRANSFER: Private transfer to Catania airport or train station
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Inclusions, Terms and Conditions and FAQ
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HOW TO BOOK:
Click the button in the footer below, complete the registration form and pay your deposit to guarantee your place. You will be sent a reminder to pay your trip balance when it is due. You can also pay the full amount owing for the trip at any time. Please review our terms and conditions before proceeding with payment.
INCLUDED:
We have strived to make our Eastern Sicily tour as all inclusive as possible with no hidden surprises. Included in your tour are:
7 nights in luxury 4 star accommodation - 3 nights at a city hotel in Catania, 2 nights in a garden villa in Noto and 2 nights at a boutique hotel in Ortigia
4 guided orientation walking tours with expert local guides
Unique experiences: Wine tasting, cooking class, chocolate making class, artisan workshop visits, boat tour and more
Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 aperitivo and 7 dinners as specified in the itinerary, wine and bottled water is included with meals other than breakfast
Luxury air-conditioned mini-bus
Group departure transfers to Catania
Tips and gratuities for drivers and guides
Where only 2 meals are included per day, either lunch or dinner is extremely substantial and usually guests prefer a small snack for the other meal. We can recommend excellent restaurants and snack bars at each location should you require them. All meals include wine and bottled water. Should you prefer other beverages, they are not included in the cost of the tour.
NOT INCLUDED:
Our tour prices do not include
your international roundtrip airfare or internal flight or travel arrangements to Catania
travel insurance
activities not included in the trip itinerary
additional hotel charges such as room service, hotel bar tabs and laundry
food and beverages not included in our itinerary
gratuity for your tour leader is also not included.
CANCELATION POLICY:
No one books a trip to Italy with the intention of canceling it, but unexpected events do occur. Our cancelation policy is in place to help guests, our local partners and us through expenses that may arise from unexpected cancelations.
Cancelations Initiated by You:
If you cancel your trip up to 120 days prior to departure, you will receive a full refund minus a $US 500 per-person service fee (to cover credit card fees and other non-refundable costs associated with your booking)
Cancel between 119 and 61 days prior to the trip departure, and a 50% refund applies
Cancelations within 60 days of departure incur a 100% cancelation fee
Cancelations Initiated by Us:
We reserve the right to cancel tours with inadequate participant interest, in which case your hold deposit will be refunded. Notification of cancelation for this reason will occur at least 100 days prior to trip departure. As mentioned above, we cannot be held responsible for any personal expenses, such as airline tickets due to changes in itineraries or tour cancelations before your tour has been confirmed. Review our complete cancelation policy here.
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