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sicily luxury trip

BROWSE OUR ITALY PRIVATE LUXURY TOURS BELOW

Submit a free quote request or call us now, let us customize a private luxury tour just for you, sicily luxury tours.

sicily luxury trip

Packages and Tours

sicily luxury trip

Services & Rates

sicily luxury trip

Plan your Trip

Sicily Luxury Tours provides Private Luxury Tours and custom vacations for Exclusive individual travelers, couples, families and small groups.  At Sicily Luxury Tours we believe that the journey and level of service are ultimately as important as the destination.

We specialize in private luxury Sicily tours that are tailor-made to the highest of expectations. Sicily Luxury Tours exclusively uses superior services, facilities and preferred rooms in Sicily’s most luxurious hotels and resorts.

We deliver the highest quality luxury tours of Sicily. Our professional personal guides and chauffeurs will privately guide you in your discovery of Sicily. Our services to you will be dedicated, seamless, discrete, innovative. No task is too big, no request too small.

Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily offers the opportunity to discover some of the most amazing landscapes and cultures on earth. From the snow-capped picks of Mount Etna to the clear blue waters of the Aeolian Island; a resilient culture rich in tradition; ancient fortresses, Greek temples and welcoming people.

Whether you are looking for a family holiday, a wine/culinary adventure, an Outdoor Adventures journey or a luxury experience, Sicily Luxury Tour is the answer to all your travel needs.

Have you ever dreamed of staying in a Castle and waking up to the beauty of the Sicilian countryside or staring away into the horizon while the sun is setting over the Aeolian Islands?

Come and experience the magic of Sicily in the luxury and comfort that you deserve. This is the Sicily Luxury Tours way.

Plan Your Trip Now!

Featured tours.

Baroque Sicily Tour

Baroque Sicily Tour

Sicily Sanctuaries

Sicily Sanctuaries

Testimonial.

We really enjoyed out tour last week so I’m writing to say thank you for the arrangement. It exceeded our expectations! We particularly enjoyed staying in Cortona and the hotels were of very good standard. Our driver and guide, Francesco, was very helpful and a really nice guy. Our Perugia guide, Furio, was also highly knowledgeable. As you may recall, I had some hesitations before the tour but wanted to tell you we were more than satisfied with the experience!

Kathy and I really enjoyed our tour of Italy! You organized everything very well and we were taken care of. Our meal in Montepulciano was the highlight where we got to indulge in pici pasta, salad, filet mignon and wine – for lunch!! We were lucky in Florence and were able to enjoy a youth symphony orchestra’s evening concert. From there we traveled to the Hotel Ambasciatori which we absolutely loved! The elegance and charm of the Hotel made us feel very spoiled. I enjoyed seeing the orange and lemon trees everywhere; I also loved the beautiful setting. We ended out trip in Capri and were able to enter the Blue Grotto on the day we went! By the way – our tour guide of Capri, Sacha, was very good and even gave me my very first Italian kiss!!

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sicily luxury trip

Luxury Sicily Tours made for you

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Ancient sites

Discover fascinating monuments

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Take an off-road adventure

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Sublime cuisine

Sample incredible dishes

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Quiet beaches

Spend lazy days on the coast

A cultural crossroads

Sitting off the toe of  Italy ’s boot, Sicily has long been a melting pot of Mediterranean culture, a ruggedly beautiful island surrounded by sparkling seas.

Sicily’s long history has seen it at the heart of great civilizations and often under foreign rule. Of the ancients, the Greeks loved Sicily most and left a monumental mark on the island, almost as great as the island itself made on classical culture. The great cities of Syracuse, home to Archimedes, Selinunte and Agrigento are still strewn with vast ruins and towering doric temples. The iconic amphitheatre at Taormina overlooks sea and smoking Mount Etna, as impressive a view now as it was two millennia ago.

Next came waves of Romans, Byzantines, Moors, Normans, Spanish and Bourbons, each adding to the identity of Sicily, from golden cathedrals, imposing castles and Baroque palazzos, to the islanders’ generous hospitality and rich cuisine. Even with  Italy  unified under today’s Republic and a tough twentieth century, Sicily proudly retains its own distinct culture.

When Goethe wrote ‘to have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen  Italy  at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything’, he was not far off the mark, but truly seeing Sicily would take many months. As well as the great Greek ruins, beautifully Baroque Noto, Ragusa and Modica all deserve time to be explored, as does seaside Cefalù and lofty Erice. After re-emerging from years of poverty, Sicily’s two biggest cities can each captivate for days, Palermo as a cultural centre and Catania with a heady nightlife at the foot of Mount Etna.

And that’s before exploring the glorious interior, a hinterland home to sublime mountainscapes and a rural patchwork of gently crumbling villages, sleepy olive groves and basking vineyards. There’s also miles of quiet beaches and dozens of off shore islands.

Get lost wandering through the streets of the impossibly pretty cities of Noto, Ragusa and Syracuse

Sample Sicily’s incredible cuisine and enjoying finding your favourite place for cannoli

While away your time in the beauriful city of Taormina

Enjoy the frenetic energy of Palermo

Black and white illustration of Melania Siriu's headshot

Melania Siriu

Senior Travel Designer

sicily luxury trip

Sicily has it all: natural reserves, a live volcano and secluded islands for adventurous types; stunning panoramic spots for photographers and romantics; and Greek temples and baroque architecture for history lovers. Plus, everyone agrees on Sicilian cuisine – simply irresistible. 

sicily luxury trip

Luxury accommodation in Sicily

sicily luxury trip

Trip Inspiration

portofino-fishing-village

21 Day trip

Taormina, Sicily

Whatever you want from your Sicily tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Discover more of Italy

Roads along the Capri Coast

Approach by sea from Naples, and as you come to the landmark of the Faraglioni rocks, you’ll know you’ve reached the fabled hedonistic isle of Capri. This is the island that charmed both Roman Emperors Augustus and Tiberius, America’s Hollywood darlings and this century’s international jet set.

sicily luxury trip

Emilia Romagna

Home to pretty coastal towns, elegant cities and is considered by many to be the country’s foodie capital.

sicily luxury trip

Surrounded by rolling Tuscan hills, the beautiful city of Florence is one of Europe’s most enchanting and historically influential cities.

sicily luxury trip

Lake Como has been a popular retreat since the time of the Roman Empire, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Everyone from aristocrats to A-listers flock to its shores to enjoy its tranquil waters and beautiful lakeside towns and villas.

Matera, Italy skyline

Matera is the jewel in Basilicata’s crown, a jumble of houses and churches perched on a plateau with deep canyons either side.

sicily luxury trip

An arbiter of international style, Milan is Italy’s financial and industrial heart, a thoroughly modern European city with a great history not far under the surface.

sicily luxury trip

Nestled in the north west of the country and fringed by the French and Swiss Alps, Piedmont is one of Italy‘s most naturally beautiful regions.

sicily luxury trip

Portofino and Cinque Terre

The magnificent Italian Riviera has been attracting rich and beautiful since the days of Byron, Shelley and Keats who spent time here swimming, finding inspiration and drinking around what became known as the Golfo dei Poeti.

Gargano Italy coastline

Known for its never-ending coastline, whitewashed hill towns and sublime food it feels very different to the rest of the country and is it the perfect place for those looking to get off the beaten track.

skyline-panorama-rome-italy

Glorious reminders of Rome’s illustrious past, from ancient Roman wonders to Renaissance masterpieces, are all on show.

sicily luxury trip

Sardinia has its own unique identity, and its inhabitants are fiercely proud of their island which is as intriguing as it is beautiful.

sicily luxury trip

The Amalfi Coast

Draped along the cliffs on the southern side of the Sorrento Peninsula, between Salerno and the city of Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most dramatic and glamorous spots in Italy.

Crystal clear lake nestled in the Dolomites

The Dolomites and the Alps

Soaring peaks, tooth-like crags and lush verdant slopes, the Dolomites are some of Italy’s most dramatic scenery.

sicily luxury trip

Few scenes are more evocative of Italy than that of rural Tuscany, undulating hills, dotted with stoic stone farm houses, dark green cypress trees and ranked vines, all under a shawl of a dawn’s mist.

sicily luxury trip

Sat within a shallow lagoon between the mouths of Po and Piave rivers, Venice is formed of 118 islands formed by some 170 canals connected by over 400 bridges.

sicily luxury trip

A splendid city of art inextricably associated with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, straddling the winding Adige River where ancient and modern times meet.

Meet your Europe team

sicily luxury trip

Travel Designer

sicily luxury trip

When to visit Sicily

The best time to visit Sicily is in the late spring and autumn months. April to June or September to October bring beautiful, mild days. The summer months (July-August) are fine for those seeking high temperatures, but the region can get very busy.

Peak Season

Peak Season

History

April - May, Sept - Oct

Coast Trips

Coast Trips

April - Nov

Piazza Navona in Rome, Italy

When is the Best Time to Go to Italy?

Italy travel guides.

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Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Italy

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10 Things You Didn't Know About Italy

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Our Guide to a Family Vacation in Italy

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The Best Luxury Hidden Gems in Italy

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The Ultimate Food Guide to Italy

Plan your trip to sicily.

Whatever you want from your adventure to Sicily, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Why book with Jacada?

sicily luxury trip

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

sicily luxury trip

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

sicily luxury trip

Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

sicily luxury trip

Plan with peace of mind

When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Sicily and its isles, about this tour.

Explore Sicily – an island paradise nestled amongst the deep blue waves of the Mediterranean. Sample specialities in Palermo’s colourful food market. Taste award-winning olive oil and learn about the Slow Food movement at a local farm. Explore Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples (UNESCO) with a guide. Enjoy two nights on the Isle of Salina and visit a traditional caper farm. Spend three nights in Taormina, perched above the Ionian Sea. See Mount Etna from a different perspective on an off-road excursion. Discover how ancient traditions blend into modern society as you travel along Sicily and two of its beloved isles.

Your Tour Includes

  • 6 Handpicked Accommodations
  • 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

  • Choice on Tour
  • Impact Moment

Your Tour at a Glance

12 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Explorations

Customize Your Tour

Optional Excursions

Starting at $99.00

Activity Level

  • Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Spend three nights in Taormina (UNESCO) and explore its iconic Greek theatre.

Pass by Baroque architecture and wrought iron balconies on a winding walking tour of Ragusa (UNESCO).

Immerse yourself in ancient history during a visit to the Valley of the Temples (UNESCO).

Cultural Experiences:

Ascend the sides of Mount Etna (UNESCO) on off-road vehicles.

Soak up the relaxed ambiance of the Aeolian Islands (UNESCO) with a 2-night stay on the Isle of Salina.

Delve into the belly of Palermo on a walking food tour of the historical centre.

Culinary Inclusions:

Taste award-winning olive oil and learn about the Slow Food movement at a local farm.

Enjoy world-renowned Marsala wine on a wine cellar tour.

Savour salty capers and sweet Malvasia wine at a local producer on Salina island.

  • Isle of Mozia
  • Marsala Winery Tour
  • Olive Oil Farm
  • Valley of the Temples
  • Isle of Salina
  • Mount Etna Off-Road Excursion

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

  • *No Hassle Refunds
  • Travelling Well Safety
  • No booking fee, *no change fees
  • Top Rated Travel Protection

Share This Tour

Looking to add your itinerary for friends and family? Share your Itinerary

Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

Hotel Upgrade

  • Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Hotel-baia di ulisse.

During your stay at the Baia di Ulisse Hotel, Agrigento you can choose to upgrade your room to a frontal Sea View providing the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Le Dune seaside. Upgrade available at the above cost per person, double. Please inquire at time of booking.

*Total for all passengers

Hotel-NH Collection Taormina

During your stay at the NH Collection Taormina Hotel, you can choose to upgrade your room to a Deluxe Sea View providing the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Le Dune seaside. Upgrade available at the above cost per person, double. Please inquire at time of booking.

Enhance Your Trip

  • Tour Extensions

During your visit in Monreale you have the choice between two activities. Your first choice is to explore more of the Cathedral’s monastic complex during a guided tour of the cloisters with its elegant combination of Romanesque arches and Oriental decorations. Your second choice is to ascend to the Cathedral’s terraces* via the steep stairs of the southern tower for a bird-eye’s view of the monastery and Palermo's Golden Valley.

Hotel-Hotel Porta Felice

In the workshop of a renowned pastry chef and author, learn to make delicious Sicilian specialties. After you meander through the historic streets of Erice, you’ll head to Maria Grammatico’s Bakery, whose life story is dictated in the novel Bitter Almonds. There, you’ll learn to prepare a traditional pastry recipe and learn the history behind the iconic Sicilian cannoli. Almonds are grown throughout southeast Sicily, the foundation of many age-old traditional recipes. Once you finally taste the fruits of your labor, you’ll understand why Sicilian pastries are so loved around the world.

Journey to Sicily’s Baroque Valley, known for its ornate historic architecture. Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites in Scicli and Modica. The town of Scicli dates back to the 3rd century BC, home to a number of centuries-old churches. Visit a local farm for brunch to learn about two local specialties: ricotta cheese and sausage. The hilly city of Modica, dating back to the 2nd century BC, is renowned for its baroque architecture and breathtakingly detailed facades. Taste Modica’s historically rooted artisanal chocolate, based on flavorful Aztec recipes of millennia ago. This tour will immerse you in the alluring culture and history of the Baroque Valley.

You can now include pre-paid tipping into your guided tour purchase. You pay for your tipping up front, we handle the rest, and you can cross one more thing off your “To Do” list. No more running to an ATM at the last minute on tour or carrying around cash you won’t spend.

Take in the sights on a leisurely sunset sail around the legendary Stromboli Volcano, called “the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.” Your private boat will anchor for an opportunity to swim in beautiful waters (weather permitting). Watch the skyline for puffs of smoke, emitting from the island’s active volcano. In the intimate dining space, indulge in a rustic dinner of local Aeolian specialties and regional wines. As the sun sets, be on the lookout for glowing hues of red and orange and perhaps some small lava flows in the drama of the dusk sky. This incomparable dinner cruise will leave you with lasting memories of Southern Italy.

Accommodation

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Hotel Porta Felice From $125 per night

Hotel Porta Felice

I mulini resort, baia di ulisse, poggio del sole hotel, hotel la salina borgo di mare, nh collection taormina.

Nights 10-12

Stay Longer

Post Night: NH Collection Taormina From $280 per night

Trip Reviews

Live, Unedited, & Independent Traveler Reviews

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sicily luxury trip

Bespoke Luxury Experience

TOUR OF SICILY is an Italian-Sicilian  Destination Management Company  ( DMC) and tour operator specialized in Luxury Travels options. With more than 35 years of experience , an  inimitable network of partners  and strong knowledge of the industry enables us to offer you a complete and  tailor made experience in Sicily.

As the starting point, we identify your needs and wishes , then swiftly propose the best solutions to meet those requirements.

We do not just create luxury vacations in Sicily, but rather  extraordinary and unique life experiences.  Each of our luxury tours is different simply because our travelers arranged it with us. For this reason, our objective is to provide  you with a friendly, unique and warm personal approach  to discussing, creating, and planning every detail of your travel.

During your entire tour, you will travel with Sicilian local experts, who have a deep love for their country and are proud  to share the hidden luxury gems of Sicily with you.

Are you ready to experience the most beautiful and captivating trip of your life?

Valeria Gulotta and Vincenzo Ciceraro – CEO, Owners and Your Personal Luxury Travel Designers

HELP US CREATE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SCRIPT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY

What kind of luxury traveler are you?

Help us create the most beautiful script for your holiday. Answer some questions and  we will propose different luxury itineraries  in Sicily based on your needs, expectations and idea of a luxury vacation.

Then, if you want, we can discuss  designing a custom journey for you  to experience every facet of Sicily, through cultural activities, luxury food and wine tours, relaxation or adventure.

Way more than a cookie-cutter tour

Make this itinerary yours.

Like what you see? Book a call with us today to find out more about this exclusive itinerary and get a quote. Remember: we can tailor to your needs each and every Tour of Sicily trip. So, if you are looking for a tailor-made experience, we highly suggest you to book a call for our premium service!

sicily luxury trip

Transfer-Tour in Sicily: 1 day private transfer-tours of Sicily. Best way to move from one town to another visiting villages and sites instead of having just a straight transfer. We move you from the west to the south or to the east in one day transfer and tour private service!

sicily luxury trip

The Peoples of Sicily: 11 days private tour of Sicily exploring the Island and the Peoples of Sicily home to Normans, Greeks, Arabs, Germans and Jews. The island was for centuries a crossroads of cultures and faiths.

sicily luxury trip

Food and Wine Grand Tour of Sicily: 12 days private tour of Sicily. Over 2000 years of history, best cousine ever, delicious wine and iconic cities are just a few things you can expect from a Food and Wine Tour of Sicily.

Details Make the Difference

Unique experiences, deluxe properties, travel designers, tours and holidays.

Best experience out of the path, authentic itinerary and special access to unique activities and events.

Tour of Sicily aims to introduce travelers to a hidden and authentic point of view of Sicily through small group and bespoke experiences!

Check-out our exclusive  experiences  to feel the unique and authentic flavor of  Sicily,  above all. Our vision is to bring the best of our country to our guests, in the most  personal  and enjoyable way possible.

Furthermore, the main objective is to provide the best  cooking classes ,  food   and wine tastings  and  cultural tours . Cultural or walking tours might be small group experiences of  no more  than 12 people, as well as private and tailor-made activities.

Therefore, thanks to these unforgettable activities, our guests can live the best Sicilian experience ever.

Experience only the best hotels, villas and apartments that match your requirement, taste and needs.

The Sicily’s best places to stay.

With hundreds of hotels in Sicily – from intimate island retreats and urban hideaways to sprawling oceanfront properties, private villas, and more – there’s an escape for every type of travel style.

What makes a property so great? Each one is individually vetted for quality, location, service, and exclusivity before it receives our approval.

Be guided by our expert and professional private travel designers who will help you to create the best travel experience.

Personalized planning – the trips and experiences you want (and those unforgettable moments you didn’t even know were possible), tailored to your interests.

When you plan a trip with Tour of Sicily, you’re unlocking a world of in-the-know expertise, unbelievable travel perks, and access to a well-edited portfolio of the best brands in the business. We bring together the best travel providerds, from five-star hotel to boutique properties and high-end adventure travel outfitters in the island of Sicily. When it comes to experiencing the best of the best in travel, it’s about who you know – and we will connect you to the amazing island of Sicily.

With us you can create your  tailored vacation  with your very own professional driver-escort. Special attention is taken to give adequate time to all stops and to meet your special requests when possible. We want to assure that your experience in Sicily is both memorable and enjoyable. So, come and indulge in your  very own Sicilian experience !

Way more than a cookie-cutter tour.

Tour of Sicily, an on-site tour operator , create amazing, customized travel experiences around the island of Sicily, from group and small size escorted tours to independent vacations.

Talk to a travel advisor about what you want to do – and he’ll help you create a one-of-a-kind itinerary.

sicily luxury trip

Tour of Sicily is the Best Way to Travel

The Sicily’s top travel tour operator, the brands you know, and the perks and peace of mind you won’t find anywhere else.

For close-to-home escapes or far-flung trips of a lifetime, Tour of Sicily is your resource for the insight you need to plan a safe, successful, and unforgettable vacation.

We make travel dreams come true.

What it’s like to work with a travel designer and team:.

Travel dreams become reality

Vacation planning is a fully personalized, tailored experience. There’s nothing cookie cutter or average about it – it’s just an enjoyable collaboration process with a trusted professional.

Valeria Gulotta Tour of Sicily co-owner Luxury Travel Designer

“We monitor the trip in real time to resolve any unexpected changes. We also reach out to our personal connections to make sure there’s a friendly face to welcome travelers.”

Michela Nucera Tour of Sicily booking department

“After clients return from a trip, I always ask them, ‘If you could change or add one thing, what would it be?’ It’s important to know what we can make even better next time.”

Alessandra Ribbeni Tour of Sicily customer care

Why Choose Us?

BEST VALUE Great deals, amenities and availability within our selected partners and contracts

UNDERSTAND GUEST NEEDS Understand first your needs and requirements and then help you to prepare the bespoke travel experience

PRIVATE LUXURY TRAVEL DESIGNERS Personal luxury travel designers who will assist you in the pre booking phase and in all your journey

FLEXIBLE JOURNEY Flexibility before and, with our 24/7 concierge service, also during the journey

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE Deep knowledge of destinations with a team of locals living and working all around Italy and Sicily

24/7 CONCIERGE SERVICE On-spot local assistant, who provides a 24/7 phone assistance in any language

Top TESTIMONIALS

It's only 4 easy steps.

In order to make your search easier and less painful among our big pages of itineraries, and travel related services, we are happy to write below our simple booking guide.

Submitting a tour inquiry is not an act to reserving a tour, but rather a way of establishing a communication with our Travel Designer  who will be helping you with your tour.

Tour booking will be confirmed with payment only when you are totally delighted with your personalized tour plan. The following steps simply show you how to book a tour with us!

Our website is designed to give you an idea of the wealth of travel possibilities we offer. We have suggested some itineraries for each activities and each town and these can be used as a basis for your trip or tyou may prefer to create your own itinerary.

Browse our sample tours to select the tour that most suit you.

If none of our sample tours meet your expectations and your would like to plan your own trip. Just fill out our custom plan tour form to tell us the things you want to see and do, the places you want to stay and we will customize a tour to fit your needs. Take note that we do not require any credit card details to complete the form.

DESIGN A TOUR

Based on your inquiry and request, our Travel Designer will customize a plan for your tour including details of hotels, sightseeings, restaurants, experiences and offer you a price that is quoted based exactly on your group size, travel days and the services we include in the package.

If you find our price high or low, that is possible that the hotel category or the hotel room, the experience, the restaurants are not in the line you expect. Please let us know your budget, so that we can make another quote which come closely to your needs.

TOUR APPROVAL

Once you have read through the itinerary and our service porposal, we will answer any further questions and refine the tour or related travel service until you are totally satisfied .

Just feel free to express your wishes, and take good advantages of your personal Travel Designer’s experience and advice.

If you are totally satisfied with our tour itinerary and services proposal, please send us an e-mail telling us that you agree on our Service Proposal.

CONFIRM THE TOUR

The booking process begins as soon as the deposit is paid . At that point we can start to book the services for your trip.

It may happen that some of those proposed services are not longer available after your confirmation. In that case we will book similar services of the same category and we will inform you before we launch the booking reservation.

Our Travel Designer will send you the final version of your itinerary after all the tour services are confirmed by our local suppliers.

The balance is required in total before the tour starts.

sicily luxury trip

Classic Sicily | Luxury Private Tour of Sicily | Book Your VIP Sicily Tour Itinerary

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Luxury Private Tours of Sicily – 11 Days Complete Luxury Tour

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Places Visited

Palermo, Monreale, Segesta, Erice, Marsala, Selinunte, Agrigento,Syracuse, Pantalica, Taormina,

calendar

11 days (or Customizable)

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Walking tour, Agrigento, Mt Etna, wine tasting, street food

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Perfect For

Relaxation, history, food, luxury tours, luxury private tour

Complete Sicily

Complete Sicily Luxury Private Tour starts from Palermo (4 nights), Syracuse (3 nights), Taormina (2 nights), Catania (2 nights)

A sample of a luxury private tour of Sicily that is completely customizable, contact us now.

  • 11 nights in high-end accommodation
  • Daily breakfasts of local delicacies
  • Private transfers from airports and tour locations
  • Excursions to Segesta and Monreale
  • Food and wine tasting in Marsala and Selinunte
  • Private archeological tours of Agrigento's Valley of Temples and Pantalice in Syracuse
  • Naturalistic excursion to Pantalica
  • Mount Etna Jeep tour with wine-tasting lunch
  • Private guided walking tours of Palermo, Syracuse, Taormina and Catania

Catania street food experience

  • Plus, much more is on request

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: private walking tour to palermo, a private walking tour of palermo.

Walking Tour To Palermo 1

Discover the iconic sights of Palermo on a luxury private tour of Sicily with an expert guide. As a part of this special day, you will have the chance to see all of Palermo’s main attractions and stunning Baroque architecture, including Piazza Politeama, Teatro Massimo, the Quattro Canti, the Cathedral, the Martorana, Piazza Pretoria, the Palatine Chapel, the Norman Palace, and the popular markets. There will be plenty of time to ask your private guide questions and learn more about the history of Palermo and its charming culture. We will make sure that you will enjoy exploring Palermo, a top tourist attraction in Italy.

Overnight: Palermo

Day 2: Excursion to Monreale

Excursion to monreale.

Private tour of Monreale, Sicily

Escape bustling city life and set off on a tour of Monreale . Nestled on the hills overlooking Palermo, the medieval village of Monreale is known for its magnificent Cathedral, considered one of the best examples of Norman architecture in Sicily. Admire the stunning 12th-century mosaics, a testament to the island’s rich history of artistic and cultural influences.

During this Monreale tour, you will wander picturesque streets, discover local markets, and indulge in authentic Sicilian cuisine. 

Day 3: Luxury Private Tours of Segesta and Erice

Excursion to segesta and erice.

luxury Private Tours of Segesta and Erice 3

Enhance your sightseeing experience in Sicily on an enriching full-day private tour to Erice and Segesta. Start in medieval Erice, a walled town that reigns over the picturesque harbor of Trapani. Through the eyes of your expert guide, you will become acquainted with the city and its key landmarks on an in-depth history tour, with the chance to also hike along the coastal reserve.

Erice is Sicily’s most tasty pastry shop. Here you will find most of the Sicily pastries.

During this luxury private tour, you will discover Segesta, one of the major cities of the ancient indigenous Elymian people. Segesta’s temples are among the most beautiful sights in Europe. During your VIP tour, we will take you to visit the Doric temple, which dates back to the late 5th century BC and is set in unspoiled rolling green countryside overlooking the sea.

Day 4: Guided Tour to Marsala and Selinunte

Wine tasting in marsala and selinunte.

VIP Sicily Tour to Marsala and Selinunte 4

On this luxury excursion, you will be picked up by our private driver at your hotel and leave for Marsala, which was once known as Lilibeo and was founded by refugees fleeing the destruction of Mozia. It was conquered by the Romans at the end of the First Punic War and became a luxurious town featuring glorious palaces and thermal baths. The Arabian settlers called the ancient city Mars-Alì  (“the harbor of Alì” or “the big harbor”), but it is now known as Marsala. The modern city is known for its world-famous Marsala wine, as well as for the landing of Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1860. On our private adventure, you will discover all the best sights, including the Archaeological Museum and the Salt Road with the Salt Pans. You will also stop in a winery for Marsala wine tasting before reaching Selinunte, an ancient Greek city in the widest archaeological park of Europe. It was founded in the 7th century BC but was destroyed in 409 BC by the Carthaginians allied with Segesta, its eternal rival. The two most important areas you’ll visit are the Eastern Hill with the ruins of three temples, and the Acropolis where Greek and Punic ruins are still visible.

Day 5: Private Tour to Agrigento Valley of the Temples

Stopover in agrigento with a tour of valley of temples.

luxury Sicily tours to Agrigento Valley of Temples

On route to Syracuse you will have the chance to explore Sicily’s ancient Greek history with a tour of Agrigento’s Valley of Temples .

The UNESCO-protected Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s most significant archaeological treasure sites.

Led by an expert guide, you will step back in time witnessing and learning about the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Herakles, the Temple of Zeus, and the Sanctuary of the Chtonian Deities (Temple of Castor and Pollux). A truly enriching experience for every traveler.

Overnight: Syracuse

Day 6: Private Walking Tour To Syracuse

Arrive in syracuse and get ready to explore  .

Enjoy a private tour of Sicily around the enchanting city of Syracuse with this VIP experience on the ancient island of Ortygia accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide stepping you through the following sites.

  • Ancient Greek Apollo Temple.
  • Cathedral Square’s Baroque Splendor.
  • Arethusa Fountain Mysteries.
  • Jewish Quarter and Archimedes Square.

Day 7: Excursion to Pantalica

A naturalistic tour of pantalica.

Private tours in Pantalica, Italy

One of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily, the UNESCO-listed rocky necropolis of Pantalica is a prehistoric site dating back to the late Bronze Age (from the 13th to the 8th century BC). Famous for its necropolis, which features thousands of tombs dug into the overhanging walls of the Anapo Canyon. Pantalica is also famous for its breathtaking natural vistas and unusual wildlife and is part of the revered Anapo Valley Nature Reserve, a paradise for trekking.

Day 8: Amazing Tour To Taormina

Vip taormina tour, featuring the greek theater.

luxury trip To Taormina, Sicily

Today you will discover Taormina’s historic secrets and modern delights on a two-hour private tour. This guided experience allows you to explore the highlights of this charming city, including Palazzo Corvaja, the Santa Caterina Church and Vicolo Stretto, which is the narrowest street in town. As a special addition to this Taormina tour, you will enjoy “skip the line” entry to the ancient Greek Theater, which boasts magnificent views of Mount Etna and Giardini Naxos. There is no better way to discover this unassuming city’s treasured.

Overnight: Taormina

Day 9: Mount Etna Private Jeep tour with wine-tasting

Mount etna private jeep tour with wine tasting and lunch.

luxury tour to Mount Etna Jeep

Scale the slopes of Italy’s famously active Mount Etna on this full-day 4×4 Jeep tour from  Taormina . As a part of this unique experience, you will travel up rugged mountain tracks in an off-road vehicle and trek by foot to a stunning lookout point with views of lava flow basins and cave tubes created by the 2002 eruption. After descending from the volcano, you will enjoy a decadent and authentic Sicilian lunch of handmade cheeses, cured meats, pasta and dessert served with local wine.

Day 10: Catania Private Walking Tour

A private walking tour of catania.

Catania with walking tour

The scent of fresh lemons and oranges and the harmonized landscape of Mount Etna’s cliffs rolling into the glistening sea set the backdrop for the sublime city of  Catania . Catania is only 35 km away from Mount Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. On this luxury private tour of Sicily, you will have every opportunity to discover the best of Catania, including Piazza del Duomo, the Amenano Fountain, Castello Ursino, Teatro Massimo, Palazzo Biscari, Saint Agata Dome, Via Etnea, Piazza Stesicoro, which features a Roman Theater, and finally the Bellini Garden. Catania is known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, and delicious food.

Overnight: Catania

Day 11: Catania food tour

Catania food tour 11

With our hand-selected local guide, you can be sure to know where to find only the best Catania cuisine. On your private Sicily tour, you will begin this food-tasting experience with a historical overview of the city, including the intricate alleys and squares of Catania’s old town, the ancient central market of Catania, Piazza Duomo, Via Etnea (the main street), and Piazza Stesicoro. But, of course, the most important part of this Catania food tour will be the opportunity to taste no less than 15 popular street foods that the city is famous for including the following; arancino ,  cipollina ,  pizzetta , fresh fish, meatballs, local cheese, olives,  cannolo with ricotta, cassatella , granita,  and much more!

Why Travel with Bellarome

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Personalized Travel Services

Bespoke tailor-made itineraries put together by a local expert. You will be assign a dedicated consultant devoted to making your trip extra special.

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Help with tracking ancestral roots and arranging to meet relatives with the help of a translator and local anagrapher.

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Thousands of positive online reviews and happy repeat customers. ASTA members (US), ATOL protected (UK) and AFTA members (Australia) means peace of mind.

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How Many Days are Enough, and Do You Need to See the Whole of Sicily?

The ideal duration for a visit to Sicily depends on the length of your trip. However, for a comprehensive exploration that allows you to savor the soul of this enchanting island, a suggested timeframe is around 7 to 10 days. This duration provides ample time to explore Sicily’s diverse regions, from the historical wonders of Palermo and Agrigento to the cultural richness of Catania and Syracuse. If you opt for a private tour of Sicily, tailored to your preferences, it allows for a more personalized and immersive experience within this captivating Mediterranean jewel.

What Destinations Are Covered During Private Tours of Sicily?

Our private tours cover a wide range of destinations across Sicily, from the historic streets of Palermo to the ancient ruins of Agrigento, ensuring you experience the diverse and enchanting facets of this Mediterranean gem.

Can I Customize My Private Tour Itinerary?

Absolutely! We understand that every person has different interests. With Private Tours of Sicily, you can customize your itinerary. Whether you want to visit historical sites, culinary delights, or natural wonders, we ensure that your tour reflects your preferences.

What Defines a Luxury Tour of Sicily?

A luxury tour of Sicily with us is a symphony of comfort, culture, and curated elegance, a journey where every moment is an indulgence and every experience is the extraordinary beauty that Sicily has to offer.

What Are The Accommodation Options For Luxury Tours of Sicily?

We collaborate with premium hotels, resorts, and villas to ensure your stay is nothing short of exceptional. Expect elegant accommodations that complement the charm of Sicily.

Are Private Guides Provided During The Tours?

Yes, each private tour includes a knowledgeable and experienced guide. Our guides are passionate about Sicily’s history and culture, providing you with in-depth insights into the attractions you visit.

How Can I Book A Private Luxury Tour of Sicily?

It’s easy to book your luxury private tour of Sicily. Explore the tour options and follow our easy booking process. Fill out the request-a-quote form, and our travel expert will contact you. If you have any questions or need assistance, our dedicated team is ready to help.

Can Luxury Tours of Sicily Be Personalized For Special Occasions?

Certainly. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a milestone celebration, or any special occasion, our luxury tours of Sicily can be personalized to make your experience memorable.

What Types of Transportation Are Available For Private Tours?

We offer a range of transportation options, including luxury cars and private chauffeurs, ensuring your journey through Sicily is not only comfortable but also stylish.

Are Private Yachts or Exclusive Transportation Options Available In Luxury Tours of Sicily?

Yes, for those seeking the epitome of luxury, we offer private yacht charters and exclusive transportation options, allowing you to explore Sicily in remarkable comfort and style.

Can Private Tours of Sicily Accommodate Special Requests or Dietary Restrictions?

Absolutely. We understand the importance of catering to individual needs. Whether you have special requests, dietary restrictions, or preferences, our team is committed to meeting your needs.

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10 exclusive tours for luxury travel in Sicily

Sicily, the wonderful island combining sea, sun, history, food and culture. Those who are lucky enough to experience it will soon realize there is so much to see and understand about this mystical place. To really get the best taste of Sicily , you should view it through as many lenses as possible.

We have compiled this list of best experiences in Sicily so that you can be assured that your time in Sicily will be the most optimum, and you will return in the knowledge that you have discovered the most significant sights, tasted unmissable dishes, and experienced the best of the best!

The following are 10 of our top travel suggestion s if you are looking for exclusive tours for luxury travel in Sicily. If you want to find out more read also the best private day tours from main cities in Sicily .

However, we, as exclusive Sicily travel planners , can make real any travel ideas you have in mind. Get in touch with our experts and start dreaming about your next luxury trip to Sicily.

Palazzo Alliata di Pietratagliata

Mount etna helicopter tour.

Viewing Etna by helicopter  is a truly unique experience and one of the most popular luxury tours you can book in Sicily. As you ascend from solid ground and begin to hover, you will feel something shift inside you.

As you leave control and daily worries at the ground, the adrenaline kicks in and you are in the hands of the dependable pilot.

Those who have experienced helicopter travel will tell you about the unique sense of freedom it offers.

The lightness and openness of the aircraft allows you to engage with your surroundings in a way that’s truly extraordinary.

As you gaze down upon the magical and contrasting land of Sicily, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the ground we inhabit each and every day.

In the words of the French pilot Philippe Perrin , “It’s only when you’re flying above it that you realise how incredible the Earth really is.” This can also be true of Sicily!

Perhaps you wish to compliment this unique activity with a special dinner or aperitivo, combine the trip with travel to another Sicily destination , or have professional insight with the company of an Etna expert.

Whatever your request, our helicopter tours are completely customisable and your wish is our command and can be combined with other Mount Etna private tours .

View of Etna from Helicopter

Private visit to Palazzo Gangi and lunch at the Princess’  House (Palazzo Alliata di Pietratagliata)

While in Sicily, your experience will not be complete without witnessing the wonders of its grand interiors.

Inside the walls of the palaces and villas, you will be enchanted by stories of Sicily’s varied past, while getting a taste for how wealthy Sicilian aristocrats used to live.

During this experience, you will have a unique chance to visit two ancient noble palaces: Palazzo Gangi and Palazzo Alliata di Pietratagliata, both in the city of Palermo .

Palazzo Gangi

Considered the most sumptuous private residence in Sicily, Palazzo Gangi became almost legendary when Luchino Visconti decided to film the magnificent ballroom scene of “Il Gattopardo” (The Leopard) there in 1963.

Palazzo Alliata di Pietratagliata encompasses five centuries of Sicilian art history with its majestic fortified tower, which was the city’s tallest at the end of the fourth century.

The beautifully maintained interiors are one of the finest examples of Sicilian Rococo architecture. The palace has never changed owner, remaining in the same family for six centuries.

The current owners – Princess Signoretta and her husband – live in the palace and with great passion and meticulous dedication have given back to the palace in which splendor has perpetuated over the centuries.

The princess herself will provide the tour of the palace, and you will then be treated to a delicious lunch in one of its finest rooms.

If you want more information about the visit to these palaces and design a private visit get in touch with our travel advisor.

Private guided visit of the Cathedral of Monreale with live organ music

The Norman Cathedral of Monreale rises above the very fertile valley of ‘’La Conca d’oro’’ (‘’The Golden Shell’’) where the almond, orange and olive trees grow.

You will be enchanted by the gold mosaics of the Cathedral, which cover almost the whole interior of the church.

An exclusive tour will let you capture the beauty of the Cathedral, without having to make your way through the crowd of noisy tourists, which can take away from the beauty of this place.

Entering through the majestic bronze portal , made in 1179 by Barisano from Trani and decorated with figures of saints, you can immediately notice the amazing size of this building, 102 meters long and 40 meters large, entirely covered in golden mosaics which cover an astonishing 6340 square meters surface, the second biggest Byzantine mosaic work in the world (the first one is in Saint Sophia, Istanbul).

Inside, you can look around you and take a deep breath.

You’re experiencing Monreale Cathedral empty : as almost nobody else does, or has ever been able to (aside from the Sicilian kings).

Live organ music creates a truly magical atmosphere: you will feel as though your feet have left the ground and that you have been transported to somewhere heavenly.

If you want more information about the tour or book it get in touch with our travel advisor.

Taormina ancient theatre private visit

One of the most remarkable monuments of Sicily is the Ancient Theatre in Taormina , set in a breathtaking location with an unbeatable view of Mount Etna and the beautiful coastline of the Ionian Sea.

The Greek-Roman theater is made up of:

  • The orchestra
  • The auditorium

The theatre was constructed in the third century BC, using the rock of Mount Tauro as its foundation, and it was designed to seat thousands of spectators at one time.

The theatre shape could allow, at the same time, a perfect listening opportunity from any area of the auditorium.

The perfect time to visit the theatre is in the evening when the gates are closed for other visitors, and you are free to wander and appreciate this treasure from a previous lifetime.

All of the passersby will wonder where you’re going as a custodian unlocks the Theatre’s gate for you and walks you right in.

You will be alone with your guide so you can experience the Ancient Theatre as it should be experienced: in tranquility and peace.

Walking inside the theatre, you will feel immediately humbled by the grandeur and resilience of the place. It is truly an antithesis to modern life.

Our exclusive private tour offers a chance to see the Theatre as it was meant to be seen – imposing, impressive and exquisite – this experience will give you memories to last a lifetime!

Taormina has a lot more to offer. If you are planning your stay here make sure to read also: The best things to do in and around Taormina and The best luxury and boutique hotels in Taormina .

If you want more information about the private visit to the theater and book it get in touch with our travel advisor.

View of ancient theatre Taormina

Wine tasting and dinner at the sunset in the most romantic Sicilian winery

For the most romantic experience in Sicily , you cannot do better than a special candlelit dinner in a winery.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening dining among the rows of Nerello Mascalese Vineyards .

The Nerello Mascalese is considered to be the superior red grape variety of Mt. Etna, with the slopes of Europe’s largest and most active volcano providing the perfect conditions for it to thrive.

What better way to try it than amongst the vines themselves, appreciating it at its best: alongside the most complimentary food pairings .

The sunset, Mt. Etna and the vineyards will be the perfect backdrop for your evening: relax in a candlelit setting, prepared just for you.

The table situated on the fertile soil of the volcano, dressed in with fine tableware provides a picture perfect scene.

Sit down to a dinner in which you will savor traditional yet refined dishes of the Sicilian cuisine paired with Etna DOC wines . It will be truly a ‘pinch-me’ moment for romantics and wine lovers alike!

Find out our favorite wineries in Sicily you can visit with a private wine tour or contact us for planning a customised one.

Yoga at Isola Bella during sunrise

One of the most renowned places in Taormina – Isola Bella – is defined as the Pearl of the Mediterranean by the famous German Baron Wilhelm von Gloeden .

On the ‘beautiful island’ you are surrounded by a vast variety of flora and fauna while surrounded by the unique rocky coast of Taormina.

Thanks to its unique nature and geographical form, the island has been declared a monument of historical and artistic interest and value .

Make your way through rocky, tree-lined paths as you make your way to our designated panoramic terrace, prepared just for you with everything you need for a peaceful, invigorating yoga session .

Practicing mindfulness on this special botanical island is an opportunity to connect with yourself and nature at the same time.

Surrounded by the sounds of the waves, we challenge you to find a more tranquil location.

Our expert yoga teacher will guide you on a journey to become at peace in body and mind.

You will be left truly energized for the day and filled with a sense of gratitude and connection to the incredible surroundings you find yourself in.

View from yoga at Isola Bella

Sail with a private yacht in the Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands are some of Sicily’s greatest treasures.

Made up of 7 secluded lands each tied together by the sparkling Ionian Sea.

They consist of:

Each with its own character, you will not want to pass up the chance to experience them all.

This group of islands is named for Aeolus , the ancient Greek and Roman god of the winds .

Feel this ancient wind in your hair and enjoy the beautiful volcanic archipelago in the Thyrrenian Sea with its active volcanoes and magnificent views.

Each island has its own unique characteristics.

For example, Panarea is a small but enchanting island, the ideal place for a great photo shoot!

The landscape of Panarea is truly unforgettable, looking around you will realise you are surrounded by a mergence of blues: from turquoise to cobalt.

The island of Stromboli is the most recent of the Aeolian islands to have emerged. Stromboli erupts lava , clouds of gas, and ashes, often oozing down “La Sciara” and creating an impressive scene.

The ultimate way to experience these treasures is of course by private yacht .

Cruise between these magical lands in style and freedom, with the opportunity to adjust your plan accordingly. Eat the freshest ingredients onboard, cooked by renowned local chefs, as you sip Sicilian wine and become at one with the sea that surrounds you.

Imagine sitting back on the comfort of your yacht, witnessing volcanic eruptions, endless sea views, and appreciate the rich flora and fauna of these unique islands.

Stepping onto the land, you can enjoy long lunches in the islands’ typical local restaurants, or embark on a walking tour to find out about the tales and traditions of these archaeological gems.

Have an intimate and exclusive aperitivo at sunset in Noto the baroque city

Noto is a small Sicilian baroque city surrounded by orange, almond and olive trees.

The magnificent  churches and palazzi  are all built using fine local stone that reflects a splendid golden tint and shines in the sunset light. Prepare to be seriously charmed by this Sicilian treasure of a town.

Enjoy a  private guided visit  that will culminate at the Church of San Carlo Borromeo, along the main street of Noto. This is one of the  most stunning baroque buildings  designed by the famous 18th-century architect  Rosario Gagliardi .

Making your way up the narrow stairs of the tower-façade, you will reach an amazing terrace to enjoy a  spectacular view of Noto  at sunset and have an  exclusive aperitivo  on a private terrace.

Simply sit back and appreciate the chance to be amongst the incredible baroque during the golden hour, a stunning scene that not many have the chance to view in such an elevated and undisturbed setting. With an unrestricted view of the stunning Cathedral, relax as you sip on local wine accompanied with the ideal Sicilian appetizers, and say ‘Salute’ to a dream-like day.

View of Noto Cathedral from terrace

Cooking with Mamma and dinner on a private terrace of Ortigia overlooking the Cathedral

This is an ideal experience for those wanting to have a taste of authentic Sicilian home cooking while enjoying one of the most impressive views in the charming island of Ortigia , the old town of Siracusa .

You will be welcomed with open arms by our Sicilian “mamma” , who will show you how to make the most of the freshest ingredients, using traditional methods and recipes for a delicious Sicilian meal, to be enjoyed while sipping a glass of local wine and enjoying a remarkable cathedral view, high above the crowds.

The first activity of the day is a trip to the market with Mamma, who will guide you through this first important step to cooking a genuine Sicilian meal.

Visit the nearby market to learn how to choose the freshest local ingredients, not having travelled far from the Sicilian land & sea.

Then, arriving at Mamma’s apartment, in one of the most beautiful historical buildings in Piazza Duomo , you will be immediately taken back by the breathtaking view of the Cathedral.

Tie your apron and get cooking as Mamma guides you along the way to successfully create a typical Sicilian menu .

Get stuck in as you learn how to make the most of your fresh ingredients to prepare some delicious recipes. You will have the chance to learn some traditional culinary techniques and will certainly become the envy of your foodie friends back home!

Hear how Mamma has been preparing Sicilian specialties in her kitchen the old-fashioned way for years, and discover a few of her culinary secrets, while learning about some traditions and customs of the Sicilian kitchen.

You’ll be enchanted by the passion of Mamma for this cooking art , which is truly infectious and the result of the deep Sicilian love for food and fresh ingredients.

With your meal ready, imagine yourself sitting comfortably while enjoying a delicious aperitivo.

Let yourself be enchanted by the soft light of the sunset with the busy square at your feet.

Admire the most impressive architectural Baroque wonders of Syracuse from the elegant and charming setting of the exclusive terrace.

view of Siracusa in sicily

Sicilian style Ape and Sicilian cart ride in Catania

The Sicilian Cart is the symbol of folklore and craftsmanship. It represents the desire and pursuit of beauty by the Sicilian people – due to its nature of being a practical transportation vehicle used for work, yet made into a stunning piece of art. If you have the pleasure of seeing one, then its intricate and rich beauty will remain vivid in your mind when you think about Sicily.

Today, the Sicilian cart appears primarily at special events and weddings . It is the perfect addition of Sicilian tradition that brings an authentic presence and is loved by guests young and old. Due to its traditional beauty and interesting history, many visitors to Sicily love to get familiar with the Sicilian cart.

Why not sit back and enjoy being at the centre of attention as you ride through the heart of Catania on board a traditional Sicilian colorful cart. Alternatively, you could discover the secrets of Catania through its beautiful buildings and churches onboard a Sicilian Ape Car decorated by a local artist.

You will have the chance to learn about the history of the Sicilian cart and its traditional uses while appreciating its intricate patterns up close.

Sicilian cart experience Catania

To book any of these experiences, contact our team of Sicily experts and we will be delighted to plan your perfect itinerary of Sicily. We will help you to create lasting memories of this special place that stay with you for a lifetime.

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Top 10 best luxury hotels in Sicily

Monday newsletters always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best luxury hotels in Sicily

Located between Europe and Africa and full of stunning architecture and spectacular nature, Sicily – the largest island of Italy – has a charm that’s all its own. Most travelers come here to escape to a luxury beach resort overlooking the blue Mediterranean Sea. But you can also head inland to explore UNESCO landmarks and idyllic villages with magnificent views across mountains and brooding volcanoes, then savor fresh Sicilian cuisine and unwind at your exclusive island escape. Located off the northern coast of Sicily are also seven tiny islands – known as the Aeolian islands –   each with its own strong identity but all having the same volcanic origin. Both Sicily and the Aeolian archipelago continue to seduce travelers with a dazzling diversity of raw landscapes, cultural treasures, and a wide range of accommodations. Here’s my round-up of the 10 best luxury hotels in Sicily & the Aeolian islands.

There is more information (with reviews & YouTube videos) below my slideshow. Which hotel is your favorite? Or do you think I missed a property? Leave a comment .

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10. LOCANDA DON SERAFINO, SICILY

In the maze of little streets and baroque churches of Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where you find Locanda Don Serafino, a Relais & Châteaux hotel located in a fully restored small medieval building. It hosts eleven elegant and comfortable rooms, a charming place with only 22 beds for highly demanding guests. The hotel also manages one of the finest restaurants in Sicily. Near the ramparts of the lower section of the city, in the palace’s former barn, the restaurant sits under high vaulted ceilings of exposed stone. Two-Michelin-star chef Vincenzo Candiano sources his ingredients exclusively from the island, yet draws his inspiration from well beyond the Mediterranean to elevate Sicilian cuisine with his own style.

  • Hotel website : Locanda Don Serafino

sicily luxury trip

9. DONNA CARMELA RESORT & LODGES, SICILY

As you take your first quiet step into Donna Carmela’s subtropical gardens, nature takes the spotlight. Scents of the Mediterranean punctuate the backdrop as you wind your way through leafy lawns to your lodge. With just a handful of rooms dotted among lush greenery it’s the perfect starting point to explore eastern Sicily and the Ionian Coast. From sea views to mountain landscapes, each unique lodge is tailored for relaxation and peaceful seclusion. Lie back in stylish comfort in the treetop Flora lodge, or one of the several spacious suites with Etna or sea-facing views. A getaway for both body and mind, the interiors bring together design and sustainability. As well as little extras: a panoramic terrace, a lava stone hot tub or your own private garden.

  • Hotel website : Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges

DONNA CARMILA RESORT & LODGES, SICILY

8. CAPOFARO LOCANDA & MALVASIA, SALINA

Salina is the greenest of the seven Aeolian Islands that emerge from the deep blue Tyrrhenian Sea. Capofaro’s small whitewashed buildings and fresh water swimming pool stand regally amid the vineyard of the Tasca d’Almerita family, at the foot of one of two extinct volcanoes. Simply adorned, each room opens onto a terrace facing the sea where the fascinating silhouettes of neighboring Stromboli and Panarea take shape. The chef leads guests on a sun-filled gastronomic journey, infused with the salty and sweet flavours of the produce grown in the property’s rich volcanic soil. Following the grand monsù tradition befitting this Sicilian land of aristocracy, he proposes pairings with the Malvasia wine produced in the family vineyard.

  • Hotel website : Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia, Salina

CAPOFARO LOCANDA & MALVASIA, SALINA

7. HOTEL VILLA ATHENA, SICILY

Hotel Villa Athena has an astounding position within a stone’s throw of the magnificent Temple of Concordia, part of the Unesco World Heritage Site of the Valley of Temples, just outside Agrigento. The hotel is a handsome 300-year-old villa set in pretty landscaped gardens with a restaurant, bar, outside pool, spa and wellness center, vegetable garden and amazing views of the temple.  Recently extended in sympathy with the original building, Hotel Villa Athena offers a delightful collection of rooms and suites tastefully decorated in designer fabrics and furnishings. Some rooms even have spa facilities. tip: rise early and take advantage of Hotel Villa Athena’s location by walking to the archaeological site of the temples before the crowds visit.

  • Hotel website : Hotel Villa Athena

HOTEL VILLA ATHENA, SICILY

6. SIKELIA LUXURY HOTEL, PANTELLERIA

Simple monastic architecture meets striking modernist interiors at Sikelia – a boutique retreat in a dramatic setting. Housed within porcelain-white dammusi, ancient stone buildings typical of this part of Italy, this is an atmospheric escape with effortless style. Sikelia is perfectly in harmony with both its history and lava-strewn landscape on Italy’s undiscovered Pantelleria Island. Expect crisp, clean lines and a muted, monochrome palette, high vaulted ceilings and archways, as well as a gorgeous palm-lined pool. In the sleek suites, look out for eye-catching works by contemporary artist Gennaro Avallone. Then spend evenings being treated to creative cuisine in Themà.

  • Hotel website : Sikelia Luxury Hotel

SIKELIA LUXURY HOTEL, PANTELLERIA

5. THERASIA RESORT SEA & SPA, VULCANO

Therasia Resort Sea & Spa is an idyllic retreat on the Aeolian island of Vulcano. Set on a rocky headland with a view that encompasses the entire Aeolian archipelago, Therasia Resort Sea and Spa is a sun-kissed sensation far from the bustle of the mainland. Wonderfully low-key, it has Michelin Star Restaurant “Il Cappero” , a wellness center, and two glorious, seawater-filled infinity pools. Cool stone floors and chic furnishings come together in crisp white rooms with balconies or terraces.. Many of the rooms overlook the Sicilian sea, with a view of Lipari, the islands of the archipelago and the sea stacks that, like monoliths, emerge from them water. The sunset views at Therasia Resort are so sensational, you will not want to close the curtains.

  • Hotel website : Therasia Resort Sea & Spa

THERASIA RESORT SEA & SPA, VULCANO

4. BELMOND VILLA SANT’ANDREA, SICILY

When Goethe called Taormina a “piece of paradise on earth,” he may well have been describing Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea. Along one of Italy’s most picturesque bays on a private beach with exclusive cabanas, this former villa is just a courtesy shuttle ride away from Taormina’s town center and oozes glamour and old-world charm. The five-star property features 71 elegantly furnished guest rooms and suites. Guests are greeted with freshly-made Sicilian sweet treats in-room on arrival, and find hand-picked local fruit at breakfast. Take in panoramic views from the heated outdoor pool, revel in complimentary boat cruises, relish fresh seafood at Oliviero Restaurant, and relax with a soothing massage in their room or beneath an orange tree.

  • Hotel website :  Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea
  • Save money : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via  Virtuoso  (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
  • Review : read my review of Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea here .

3. VERDURA RESORT, A ROCCO FORTE HOTEL, SICILY

Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is set in a stunning landscape in South Sicily with 1.8 km (1,2 mi) of private coastline. The contemporary architecture combines luxury with simplicity that is in keeping with the local culture. There are 168 rooms, 32 suites and a dozen stunning private villas, all with sea view. The resort’s four restaurants enchants the senses with menus inspired by celebrity chef Fulvio Pierangelini and the authentic taste of traditional Sicilian dishes realized with fresh, organic produce sourced straight from Verdura’s own garden. The resort’s award-winning spa offers holistic treatments and health programs. Golfers from all over the world come to enjoy the two 18-hole championship courses and a nine-hole par-three course, all designed by world-renowned golf architect Kyle Phillips.

  • Hotel website : Verdura Resort, a Rocce Forte Hotel
  • Review : read my review of Verdura Resort here .

2. BELMOND GRAND HOTEL TIMEO, SICILY

Follow in the footsteps of Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren and experience the glamour, romance, and luxe way of life at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo. Located beside an ancient Greek theater, it was the first hotel to be built in the city of Taormina. Its 71 guest rooms are decorated in exquisite Italian baroque, and most boast fabulous views of the sea and Mount Etna. Stroll through town to shop for ceramics and visit local artisans, then visit the hotel’s wellness center, set within the verdant park, for a spa treatment made with local flowers and fruit essences. Dinner on the terrace overlooking majestic Mount Etna features tantalizing and Michelin-star awarded Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine.

  • Hotel website : Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo
  • Other accolades : Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo features in my top 10 list of the  world’s best hotel views .
  • Review : read my review of Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo here .

1. SAN DOMENICO PALACE, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, SICILY

Perched on a rocky promontory high above the Ionian Sea, the iconic San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel welcomes its guests with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the ancient Greek theatre. The hotel comprises an ancient Dominican convent from the 14th century, as well as a Grand Hotel Wing that was added in 1896. The 111 guest rooms and suites feature original architecture and stylish furnishings. Facilities include an onsite spa, an outdoor infinity pool, magnificent Italian gardens, and several bars & restaurants, including the Michelin star restaurant Principe Cerami. The fabulous hotel was used as the setting for season two of the HBO hit show  The White Lotus .

  • Hotel website :  San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel
  • Other accolades : San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel features in my top 10 lists of the best hotels made famous by Hollywood movies & TV shows  and the best luxury hotels in Italy .
  • Tip : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via  Virtuoso  (e.g. room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast, and $100 USD food & beverage credit).
  • Review : read my review of San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel here .

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Sicily Luxury Tours, Italy

An extraordinary insider journey to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands

TAILOR-MADE TOURS SICILY

Your luxury tour of Sicily begins in Palermo, where you will visit the highlights of Sicily’s capital city before heading south to Agrigento. Explore the Valley of the Temples, where you will admire the well-preserved Temple of Concordia, built by the Ancient Greeks, before taking in the area’s striking coastline. Your tailor-made tour of Sicily continues with a private transfer to the Baroque Valley, home to the villages of Noto, Ragusa, and Modica. There, meander through the picturesque landscape on bike, passing through captivating fishing villages and scenic valleys before stopping for a delicious meal of freshly-caught seafood delicacies. Stop in the historic town of Siracusa, located on Ortygia Island, as you head to the next destination of your private tour: the iconic Taormina. Not only is the town home to fascinating Greek and Medieval sites, it is also the perfect place to enjoy beautiful hikes around Mt. Etna, before learning about the local viticulture. The last stop of your Sicily luxury tour is the Aeolian Islands, which you will access by private helicopter transfer. While there, take a day trip via boat to Stromboli Island, where you can take a sunset hike ascending the island’s live volcano in order to witness the spectacle of glowing lava after dark. During your remaining time in the Aeolian Islands, you may also trek up Salina Island’s Monte Fossa delle Felci for a panoramic view, or boat to secluded swimming holes for a relaxing afternoon in the cerulean blue waters of the Mediterranean.

A Taste of Blue Parallel's Insider Access

  • Exclusive after-hours tour of Monreale Cathedral
  • Private helicopter transfer to the Aeolian Islands
  • Exclusive access to the “Old Route Trail” on the Stromboli Volcano
  • Private granita tasting with world-famous Pastry Chef Corrado Asseza
  • Enjoy a private boating trip to Panarea Island, and visit secret swimming spots
  • Gourmet picnics in spectacular natural outdoor settings

The Discovery

  • Valley of the Temples
  • Baroque Valley (Ragusa, Modica, Noto,  Siracusa)
  • Mount Etna Volcano
  • Aeolian Islands (Salina, Panarea, and Stromboli)

The Adventure

  • Private boating

WHEN TO GO?

Weather logo

PRIVATE TOUR SICILY

or speak to your Travel Professional

Palermo (1 night)

You will be greeted in Palermo by your personal guide and taken by private transfer to your hotel located near the port where you will begin your luxury Sicily tour. Later, enjoy a private tour of the city highlights. Palermo is Sicily’s capital and is most known for its distinct atmosphere. Its strategic position in the middle of the Mediterranean brought a variety of invaders including the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Saracen Arabs, the Normans, the Swabians, the French, and the Spanish Bourbons just to name the most influential. The result of this quilted history is evident today in the range of architectural styles, and the intriguing fusion of ingredients used in many local dishes. In the evening, we will take you to the city’s best restaurant for a traditional Sicilian meal.

Agrigento (2 nights)

Continue your luxury Sicily tour in Agrigento. Visit the village of Monreale where you will see the famous Norman cathedral, well-known for its Norman architecture and for the vast Byzantine-style frescoes which cover the interior. Later, continue to the Regaleali Estate in the heart of the Sicilian countryside where you will have a delicious traditional lunch prepared for you. The estate is a restored 18th-century farm villa built by Sicilian aristocracy and contains almost 1,000 acres of vineyards. The area is characterized by greenery that stretches over several hundred acres through the Sicilian interior between Palermo and Caltanissetta to the Sclafani Bagni hills. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to explore the hillsides of the property and the surrounding area. Continue to Villa Athena, your hotel in Agrigento, where you can rest at leisure.

The following day, you will visit the UNESCO awarded Valley of the Temples, which is conveniently located in front of your hotel. This splendid archaeological park consists of eight Greek temples built between 510 BC and 430 BC. In the afternoon, visit the Scala dei Turchi, a dazzling white rocky cliff that meets the sea, rising 50 meters above sea level. Its gleaming color is eye-catching enough, but what makes it all the more remarkable is that it looks like a staircase carved by man, even though its shape is entirely natural. It was formed by marl, a sedimentary rock with a characteristic white color. It lies between two sandy beaches where you can swim, and is accessed through a limestone rock formation in the shape of a staircase, hence the name.

Noto (2 nights)

In the morning, begin your journey via private transfer to the Val di Noto (the Noto Valley, also known as the Baroque Valley). Begin by visiting Ragusa, one of the most picturesque towns in Sicily, for a sightseeing tour on foot followed by a delicious lunch. Then, continue your journey through the Noto Valley and arrive in Modica where you can enjoy a private chocolate tasting in an iconic patisserie dating back to 1880. This dessert shop still uses the original Aztec technique brought to Sicily by the Spaniards in the 16th century to create its delectable chocolates. Afterwards, continue to Noto where you will check-in to your hotel located in the city’s beautiful historic district before enjoying a traditional Sicilian dinner in town.

Your luxury tour of Sicily continues the following day with a private biking tour to the fishing village of Marzamemi accompanied by your personal guide. As you bike through the Sicilian countryside, take in the beautiful seaside views and agricultural farms situated around Marzamemi, a town established by the Moors in the 10th century and once known as “Marsà al-hamam” or Turtle Dove Bay. The town is famed for its artisanal fishing, and it produces a variety of seafood delicacies. Meander through the streets that wind in-and-out of the main plaza offering glimpses of the turquoise sea to the east and north.

Following lunch in Marzamemi’s main square, return to Noto for a sightseeing tour of the old city in the afternoon. In 1693, Noto was completely destroyed by an earthquake and was later rebuilt from scratch on a new site, about 10km from the old center. Intent on creating a new town based firmly on Baroque ideals, three architects, Labisi, Sinatra and Gagliardi contrived a city with a perfectly proportioned urban center whose parallel lines provide myriad panoramas. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in Noto before continuing to a private dessert tasting with a world-famous granita chef in the heart of the city.

Taormina (2 nights)

Your personal host will take you via private transfer to Siracusa. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking tour of the highlights of Ortygia Island. Learn about Siracusa and Ortygia’s deep history, known for its varying architectural styles which encompass Greek and Roman remains, medieval Norman and Baroque buildings. In Ortygia, enjoy a private cooking demonstration by Chef Fiora Piccione in her apartment – a truly authentic experience. Relax in your luxury hotel in Taormina before an evening show at the Greek Theatre, one of the oldest theatres in the world. Built in the 3rd century BC, the theatre was remodeled by the Romans and later destroyed by the Moors and is a testament to Sicilian resilience.

The next day, enjoy a highlight of any Sicily tour: a beautiful 3-hour hike to the Silvestri craters on the north side of the Mount Etna volcano. Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active and highest volcanoes in Europe. The cone of the crater rises to 11,000 ft above sea level and has been designated a “Decade Volcano” by the United Nations and added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your hike will begin near the Rifugio Sapienza on the north side of the mountain where the two extinguished Silvestri craters that appeared after an eruption in 1892 are located. Ascend to the observatory with a view of 9,000 ft high.

Later, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby vineyard, which includes a wine tasting tour. The mineral rich soil surrounding the Etna volcano produces some of Italy’s most interesting varieties. Etna’s wine producers are experimenting with vineyard sites further and further up the volcano’s slopes, to gauge the effects of the richer, blacker soils and increased altitude. Some might say this is tempting fate, but the cachet of owning high-altitude vineyards is growing, and early results from these vines show promise. Return to your hotel to relax and later explore the city’s highlights with your expert guide, including the Villa Comunale Gardens.

Salina Island (3 nights)

The next morning, take a private helicopter to Salina Island, one of the seven Aeolian Islands in the far south of Italy, where you will continue your luxury tour of Sicily. Here, explore the volcanic landscape through breathtaking hikes and peaceful boat excursions around the area. On your first afternoon, visit the village of Pollara, made famous by the movie Il Postino, where you can watch the sun set over the horizon. You will be captivated by Salina’s raw scenic beauty with dramatic volcanic cliffs plunging into the sea, sleepy villages amidst verdant mountains, colorful fishing boats on pebbly beaches, hills covered in wild capers, and vines heavy with grapes for sweet malvasia wine.

During your stay in Salina, you will have the opportunity to explore its natural scenery and hike to the midpoint or the top of the extinct volcano, Monte Fossa delle Felci, the highest point on Salina Island. Starting in Pizzo Capo, you will witness varying types of vegetation that develop into evergreen forests reminiscent of the Alps with ferns, poplars, chestnut trees and other typical Mediterranean flora. Witness sky-high views of the entire region and notice the color of the water change from a lighter to darker blue as it meets the sky.

During your trip, go boating to the nearby island of Panarea where you will have access to secret swimming spots on the way, and visit the volcano of Stromboli Island, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. There you will hike the rugged landscape, ascend the volcano and watch it erupt with all its elemental power at sunset. The volcano is covered in lush, green vegetation and provides some of the best views in the world as the sky blends in with the water at the horizon.

End your private Sicily tour with a private helicopter to Catania Airport in time for your flight back home.

Map of luxury Sicily tour, with methods of transportation for transfers and destinations

MAKE THIS ITINERARY YOURS

Photography.

Clear blue water of the Tyrrhenian Sea with a small rocky island

PRICE REFERENCE

Note: Prices will vary based on the specifics of your itinerary and the number of passengers in your party.

What is included on your private Sicily tour:

  • Villa Igiea (Palermo)
  • Villa Athena (Agrigento)
  • 7 Rooms Villadorata (Noto)
  • Grand Hotel Timeo (Taormina)
  • Capofaro Hotel (Salina Island)
  • Private helicopter services to and from the Aeolian Islands
  • Services of Blue Parallel hosts and private specialized guides throughout the journey
  • All special events, private guided tours, private excursions, private outdoor activities, entrance fees
  • A Blue Parallel team composed of a personal travel expert, private hosts in each destination, and a “behind the scenes” logistical expert who monitors every step of your luxury Sicily tour. The team is on call 24-hours a day during a trip
  • All internal transportation
  • A Blue Parallel customized travel kit that you will receive prior to departure

RECOMMENDED EXTENSIONS

Croatia Luxury Travel

Croatia Luxury Travel

Wander through the streets of the historic old town of Split , many of which were once part of the palace built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

Discover the most beautiful islands of the Adriatic, as you hop between the bustling harbor of Hvar , to the famous blue grotto of Biševo , the quaint townhouses of Vis , and more.

Witness the beauty of Dubrovnik from the sparkling waters of the Adriatic before exploring Old Town with its centuries of history.

Visit the fairytale towns of Montenegro , charming villages nestled in dramatic landscapes.

Enjoy an excursion to the Plitvice Lakes , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful national parks in Croatia.

Explore the rugged peninsula of Istria – excellent for mountain and road biking excursions – using the town of Rovinj as your base.

Corisica Luxury Vacations, France

Corsica Luxury Vacations, France

Visit the picturesque towns of Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio along the stunning southern coast before heading to the Alta Rocca Mountains and Sartene region to get a taste of the traditional Corsican lifestyle.

Discover the fascinating Medieval history of the northern Corsican towns of Calvi and La Balagne , then witness the beautiful grottoes, inlets, and cliffs of the S candola Nature Reserve from your private boat.

Greece Luxury Travel

Greece Luxury Travel

Visit Athens , the heart of both ancient and modern Greece, and see iconic sites such as the Parthenon and Delphi.

Get a feel for the rhythms of the Greek countryside when you visit the pastoral Peloponnese peninsula .

Island hop through the Cyclades , volcanic islands known for their stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Our favorites include: Santorini, Mykonos, Sifnos, and Paros.

Take a private yacht charter to the Ionian islands , known for some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece.

ACCESS EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL TIPS EVERY MONTH

sicily luxury trip

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Palermo & Agrigento Average Temperatures

Taormina & noto average temperatures, aeolian islands average temperatures.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Sicily

sicily luxury trip

A list by Sara Lind & Adam Larsen . Updated December 2023.

1 San Domenico Palace (Taormina)

San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel

2 Grand Hotel Des Etrangers (Siracusa)

Grand Hotel Des Etrangers

3 Villa Fiorita Boutique Hotel (Taormina)

Villa Fiorita Boutique Hotel

4 Hotel Villa Taormina (Taormina)

Hotel Villa Taormina

5 Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes (Palermo)

Grand Hotel Et Des Palmes

6 Quartara Boutique Hotel (Panarea)

Quartara Boutique Hotel

7 Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel (Palermo)

Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel

8 Ortea Palace Hotel (Siracusa)

Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection

9 Villa Sant'Andrea (Taormina)

Villa Sant'Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare

10 Liberty Hotel (Catania)

Liberty Hotel

11 Rocco Forte Villa Igiea (Palermo)

Rocco Forte Villa Igiea

12 Palazzo Salomone (Siracusa)

Palazzo Salomone

13 Grand Hotel Wagner (Palermo)

Grand Hotel Wagner

14 Villa Boscarino (Ragusa)

Villa Boscarino

15 Hotel Henry's House (Siracusa)

Hotel Henry's House

16 Caiammari Boutique Hotel & Spa (Siracusa)

Caiammari Boutique Hotel & Spa

17 A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel (Ragusa)

A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel

18 Hotel Mea - Aeolian Charme (Lipari)

Hotel Mea - Aeolian Charme

19 Caportigia Boutique Hotel (Siracusa)

Caportigia Boutique Hotel

20 Hotel Villa Belvedere (Taormina)

Hotel Villa Belvedere

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  • Private villas

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Sicily Tours & Trips

From delicious ricotta-filled cannoli's in Palermo to adrenaline rush adventures up to Mount Etna in Catania, Sicily has something to suit all types of travelers. Whether you are a foodie, an adventurer or a history-lover, a tour through Sicily can help you discover the island's hidden treasures.

231 Sicily tour packages with 1,353 reviews

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests) Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Food & Culinary
  • Hiking & Trekking

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

We had the best time on this tour. It was an excellent itinerary that is very comprehensive visit to Sicily. We saw and did everything we wanted to do. The guides were great. They were extremely knowledgeable about the sites we were visiting. They answered all of our questions. We never felt rushed. The hotels were well located and made it easy to walk to most locations within the cities we visited. Graziana kept us up to date every day with what we were doing, when we were meeting, etc. Massimo was very quick to respond to any issues or questions, of which there were very few and very minor. If there was one criticism it would be the size of the vehicles. It was a bit tight for 8 people. A slightly larger van would have helped. I highly recommend this tour and Tourradar. They are well organized and detail oriented and run a great operation.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests) Tour

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

Well organized tour with plenty of down time to stroll and explore the towns. Graziana was wonderful in letting us know the scheduled events/times. The guides were very knowledgeable and enjoyable. Highly recommend this company. Loved Sicily!

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 8 days 2024 Tour

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 8 days 2024

The tour was beyond my expectations! I will recommend this company to my friends to let them discoer the beautiful Sicily

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days Tour

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days

Very well coordinated.

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania

Impressive. From the very beginning with a slight mixup on booking quickly resolved via WhatsApp to a super awesome tri-lingual guide who seamlessly spoke to historical facts and architectural details while weaving in local legends and folklore. Thanks to the tour team in the background who compassionately and efficiently handled a medical emergency. Be forewarned. This tour is packed. It’s a lot to see in 8 days and the days are FULL. It can be exhausting to have planned time from 7am breakfast to an 8:30pm group dinner. I don’t know how it could be done differently - but staying 2, even 3 nights at 1 location with day trips would be more pleasant instead of having to pack and unpack nearly every day. This tour was made memorable by an excellent guide. Kudos to Placido!

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights) Tour

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights)

Meals need to be improved, especially dinners. Stop at the mall was waist of time. We were not informed about swimming opportunities so we left our swim attire on the bus.
  • $50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo 2024 Tour

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo 2024

wish the tour guardian’s english I could understand better

Explore Southern Sicily Tour

Explore Southern Sicily

The tour was excellent but a little more information about the town we stayed in and transportation to attractions would have been helpful. The accommodations ranged form excellent to very bad. The guide Irene was enthusiastic and keep the group together when necessary.

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour) Tour

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour)

I took the Best of Sicily Tour with TourRadar. We had a small group of 5. It was fantastic. We had a different tour guide each day but one. They were all very knowledgeable, well educated in their fields of study, and answered all our questions and more! They made sure that the restaurants were well aware of those of us with food allergies. Communication with TourRadar and Click Tours before and during the trip was easy and they responded immediately to any questions or concerns. I will use them again!

Absolute Sicily: Palermo - Palermo (10 days/9 nights) Tour

Absolute Sicily: Palermo - Palermo (10 days/9 nights)

We loved seeing Sicily and thought the tours' choices of cities and hotels were satisfying. Being older, our hearing abilities were not so great, so being able to understand the tour guide was difficult. Placido seemed very knowledgeable and has a very likable, friendly disposition. That said, it was difficult to understand him, especially over the bus microphone system. Summing up, we enjoyed the tour very much and would recommend it to anyone interested in visiting Sicily.

Northern Sicily: Islands & Volcanoes Tour

Northern Sicily: Islands & Volcanoes

Splendours of Sicily Tour

Splendours of Sicily

Our Tour of Sicily was wonderful and our tour guide was great and had so much information

Sicilian Secrets Tour

Sicilian Secrets

The trip was well organized. The guide - Placido certainly knew his subjects and was very happy to answer questions. The accomodation was all very good as were the breakfasts. .The group was large and I didn't realise that when I booked. Also you did need to be fit ( I am) but some people found the wakking/steps very difficult

Sicily and Malta Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Sicily and Malta

I had an incredible experience with My Art Collection as my tour operator. They curated a journey filled with captivating art and culture. The guides were not only knowledgeable but also passionate, making the tour engaging and informative. The itinerary was well-balanced, allowing us to explore renowned art destinations and hidden gems. The attention to detail and personalized service ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience. My Art Collection truly made my trip unforgettable, and I would highly recommend their services to art enthusiasts and travelers alike. Thanks

Premium Sicily Tour

Premium Sicily

What people love about sicily tours.

The tour was wonderful. We had great guides, delicious food, and enjoyed the beauty of Sicily.
I can’t say enough good things about our experience in Sicily thanks to Mossimo and his team. Excellent, informative tour guides…Denise, Carlos, Antonio and Sem. The cooking class may have been the highlight, but all of the activities were fun and the pace of the tour, planned activities/free time mix was perfect. Will definitely recommend!

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  • Deutsch: Sizilien Rundreisen
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Luxury Sicily Travelling

Luxury Sicily Holidays and Travelling

Discover Sicily through Unique Experiences: be sure that you live an exclusive journey with our bespoke itineraries. Everything you want, when you want it: a luxury travel – perfectly tailored to your needs. We’ll take care of every detail from the moment you land until you fly back home. Only luxury accommodations, top services and personalized experiences – in a unique location.

Around Sicily

Art, history, culture, gastronomy, sea, beaches, mountains: Sicily has it all. It is located in Southern Italy and is the largest island of the Mediterranean Sea. It has 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, three active volcanos and the weather is pleasant all year round. Get to know the vibrant heart and the warm hospitality of this beautiful island.

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Sicily Travelling has decided to follow you during your trip to recommend the best service. We have everything you need to be treated as you deserve.

Nicolò Rubino

Founder and CEO of Sicily Travelling, Nicolò – with more than 15 years of experience in hospitality – manages all details to get the right feeling more than expectations. Passion and talent for his job have become a lifestyle. Welcome to Sicily with love!

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Inspirations

Golf & Spa Resorts

Golf & Spa Resorts

Take time for yourself and clear your mind and spirit. Enjoy a total relax stay in luxury Golf & Spa Resorts.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter Tours

Admire Sicily from up above. Live a thrilling experience with an unforgettable Helicopter Tour.

Food & Wine

Food & Wine

Taste Sicily. Food & Wine tastings at excellent wineries or gourmet Michelin Star Restaurants and private cooking classes to learn Sicily’s culinary secrets.

Sailing Experience

Sailing Experience

Live a Sailing Experience to discover the beauty of diverse beaches and crystal-clear waters.

History

Immerse yourself in History. Admire the power of ancient cultures and the greatness of their archaeological and architectural heritage.

Local Culture

Local Culture

If you are passionate about immersing in Local Culture you are in the right place. Authentic experiences in every place you visit, historic landmarks, local markets, artisans and so on.

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Aeolian Islands Yacht Experience

Taormina & siracusa, west to east sicily.

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Sicily Travelling* – Tour Operator

Office: Alcamo (Italy) Corso 6 Aprile, 260 Telephone: +39 0924 040024 Mobile:   +39 3664451210 E-mail: [email protected]

*Autorization cat A/Ill Regione Sicilia con DDS n. 732/S. 7 Tur del 14.04.17

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Privacy Overview

Luxury Sicily (10 days)

Palermo, Italy to Catania, Italy

Sicily is the largest of the Italian islands and known as the pearls of Southern Italy. The island can be discovered, understood and experienced with several itineraries dedicated to areas of interest ranging from nature to history and traditions.Nature seems to have endowed all its wonders to this land: mountains, hills and above all the sea, with its incredible colours, its crystal-clear water and the beauty of its seabeds.If you would like to live a tailor-made and luxury experience of Sicily than “The Luxury Sicily Tour” will be the best choice for you. We will permit you to live the Sicilian quotidian life with a real and authentic overview of the different location. The program is full of tasteful food and wine tastings. Experience an alternative way of sightseeing like the street food tasting in Palermo market or luxury private food experiences in hidden location like San Giuliano Garden or Casa Cuseni.

Welcome to Sicily or better welcome to the Essence of Sicily.

Virtuoso Benefits

Essence of Sicily Virtuoso Amenities

Complimentary Meet & Greet Service at the Airport

Welcome Package including tipical Sicilian products: homemade jams, biscuits, natural hand cream and soaps, a bottle of extra virgin olive oil, Sicilian cookbook

Welcome cocktail at hotel and bottle of wine and local biscuits in the room

Available services during the excursions : Onboard Water, Snacks and refreshing towels

ROCCO FORTE VERDURA RESORT

Virtuoso Amenities for your stay

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Full breakfast daily for up to two in room guests, served in restaurant
  • A EUR 85 Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

BELMOND GH HOTEL TIMEO – VILLA SANT’ANDREA

  • Full American breakfast (buffet)
  • $100 USD Equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full, to be utilized at the hotel restaurant for Lunch or Dinner)

Terms and conditions vary by program. Details will be provided upon request.

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Cognoscenti Travel - Bespoke Luxury Tours, Events and Experiences in Sicily​

Cognoscenti Travel

Bespoke luxury tours, events and experiences in sicily.

‘Going to Sicily is better than going to the moon’ Gabriel Garcia Marques

Allow us to guide you through the wonders and secrets of Sicily, seamlessly arranging every detail along the way. Delve into a more meaningful and sustainable travel experience whilst enjoying the highest levels of luxury. We’re passionate at preserving culture for future generations and sharing unique, tailor-made adventures.

With unrivalled on-the-ground connections, Cognoscenti Travel creates bespoke itineraries filled with unexpected pleasures. If you’re looking to discover the highest quality wine, the most beautiful hidden beaches, stay in villas closed to the public or arrange a one-of-a-kind wedding, we make it happen.

Sail Away With Us

Pristine waters are just three hours away from the uk….

Take a private boat for the week and follow a meandering sailing route around the volcanic Aeolian islands, which offer so much natural beauty, secret beaches and superb swimming and hiking.
 Every element of has been meticulously planned for both safety and luxury.

Sicily - Cognoscenti travel

“Socially distanced, small groups and a sense of freedom: sailing holidays are perfect for 2021”

Cathy Watson, The Jewish Chronicle

Sicily - Cognoscenti travel

We are Sicily specialists. This intense island is a place where cultures collide and nature’s energy is intensified. Volcanic landscapes, crystal coastlines and off-shore islands sit alongside classical temples, Baroque towns and glittering mosaics. You’ll also find some of the highest rated wines, passionate celebrations and dazzling festivals, world class food and ingredients and larger-than-life characters. Let us personally design every detail of your luxury journey…

Sicily’s location means the island has been a cultural melting pot since antiquity. Influenced by Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans, it offers artistic treasures, curious traditions and unforgettable experiences. Our in-the-know local guides will bring Sicily’s rich history to life. They’ll introduce theatrical open markets, ancient ruins, private palazzi and historic coffee shops. They can also reveal personal tales and intrigues you won’t find in any history books.

Sicily - Cognoscenti travel

Food & Wine

Sicilian cuisine is typically seasonal and slow cooked using amazing local ingredients such as red prawns, aubergines and almonds. In the streets you’ll find iconic snacks like arancini, granita and cannoli. Sicily is also acknowledged as one of the most exciting centres of wine production, with very fine Marsala and Grillo, Zibibbo and Nero d’Avola. Cognoscenti Travel can introduce you to some of the finest vineyards, restaurants and eateries and even get you cooking with celebrated chefs.

Tour Etna’s active lava flows on e-bike or snowboard it’s volcanic slopes from a helicopter. Island hop Sicily’s archipelago onboard a luxury yacht and dip a toe into the glittering Ionian Sea. Visit the locations of Coppola’s Godfather films and take in the historic olive groves and salt roads. Enjoy the spring almond blossoms and follow the footsteps of famous Jewish travellers. Sicily offers almost endless possibilities and we have the contacts to bring it all to life.

Collage featuring Sicilian nature

Cognoscenti founder and Sicily connoisseur Alberto Ciarallo puts together unique, luxurious holiday experiences using very specialist, on-the-ground knowledge. He’s passionate about Sicily and loves a challenge. Get in touch to find out more or put his knowledge to the test!

Sicily - Egadi Islands and Cala Rossa Favignana

Explore Cognoscenti Travel’s specialist itineraries. All are designed for discerning travellers looking for the finest Sicilian experiences. Wine, food, private villas, hidden attractions, little-know beaches…our network of contacts makes everything we offer exciting and unique.

sicily luxury trip

Cognoscenti Travel specialises in bespoke, luxury and ‘off the beaten track’ holiday experiences in Sicily. All our itineraries are carefully created to introduce a side of the Island known only to locals and experts. Please get in touch with founder and director Alberto to see how he can deliver a fully tailored, one-off adventure of a life-time.

[email protected]

sicily luxury trip

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Tonnara di Scopelli in Sicily, Italy

Sicily Tours & Vacation Packages

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Invigorate all of the senses in this ethereal 3,000-year melting pot. Greek, Roman, Norman, Arab, and Aragonese influences have left indelible impressions in the architecture, cuisine, and culture that culminate in the splendor that is famously Sicilian. Discover the natural panoramas that have attracted civilizations for time immemorial: the magnificent peaks of mountains, the charming hills, and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

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Zicasso in the News

Skyline of Florence, Italy

15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,365

Culture perpetually surrounds you, and the depths of history arise anew on your custom tailored  15-day Italy and Sicily tour. Gondolas float down the maze-like network of canals in Venice. The eclectic, historic cultures that once called Palermo home remain strong in the traditions of the marketplace. The summits of Mount Etna and Mount Vesuvius loom over cities both ancient and contemporary. Roman ruins and Doric temples, opulent beaches and Renaissance artwork combine for a breathtaking Italy vacation.

Cefalu, coastal city in northern Sicily, Italy.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,649

Immerse yourself in the charms of the culture, the beauty of the undulating scenery, and the unforgettable flavors on your custom-tailored Sicily and the Amalfi Coast tour. Towns cast along the mountainous landscape of the Amalfi Coast, and the blend of classical cities with exquisite seaside views of Sicily are sure to enchant you. Rows of vineyards decorate the horizon. The Blue Grotto shines with iridescent hues. Locals overtake the fish market in search of the freshest catch and best daily deal. Ancient temples overtake the hillside and glow white in the Mediterranean sunlight.

Palace of the Normans in Palermo, Sicily, Italy

19  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $14,815

Welcoming temperatures, coastal communities, and picturesque beaches appear in abundance on this 19-day tour of Sicily and Puglia. Lacking the icy elegance of Italy's Northern region, Southern Italy has long attracted those in search of rich culture and compelling history. From the bustling port of Palermo to the mysterious origins of the Trulli in Puglia, this tour ensures your full immersion into the warmth and vitality of Southern Italy.

Cityscape of Palermo in Sicily, Italy

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,571

Experience the essential culture and remarkable history of Italy during this 11-day Sicily tour. This adventure immerses you in the hidden splendor of the island’s western edge. Indulge in secret splendor by sampling the customary flavors of diverse cuisine and basking in the elegant magnitude of glistening mosaics. Sample celebrated wines, witness preserved ancient architecture, and dig your toes into the golden sands of the Mediterranean coastline during this magnificent Sicily tour.

Vineyards in Sicily, Italy

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,015

The luxuries of Sicily emanate from every sip of wine, each bite of food, and the unforgettable panoramas of the landscape. Your Sicily wine tour is custom tailored to ensure comfort and elegance, flavor and culture. The sea shines a deep sapphire blue. The hills transition between golden grasses and verdant vineyards. The exquisite snowcapped peak of Mount Etna rises over the sandy beaches, and immense columns of ancient Greek temples continue to stand stoically against rolling hills surrounding the valley. From the moment you arrive, you will relish the splendor of Sicily.

Senior couple at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Sicily

Dynamic pricing from  $3,217

The majesty of Sicily will enrapture you with mythical tales, vibrant culture, indulgent cuisine, and ineffable history. Architecture seamlessly blends Arab and Norman influence. Markets present an atmosphere similar to a North African bazaar. The seaside glistens multiple shades of indescribable blue. The beauty of Greek ruins shares the spotlight alongside Baroque palaces. The wonderment of Mount Etna’s towering peak complements the five-star luxuries of your unforgettable accommodations. Your custom-tailored best of Sicily tour encapsulates the splendors of Sicily, showing you marvelous vistas overlooking endless vineyards and preserved Roman mosaics providing insight into the lavish lifestyle of prosperous colonists.

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Villa Borghese is one of the richest in artistic and monumental Roman villas, Italy

Dynamic pricing from  $3,933

The ancient world of the Mediterranean comes to life during your custom-tailored Rome, Sicily, and Greece Tour. The brilliant hues of Michelangelo’s paintings encompass the entirety of the Sistine Chapel. The pillars of the Parthenon support the history of thousands of years of Western Civilization and overlook the city of Athens. Greek temple ruins complement the Sicilian landscape, surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards. Outdoor markets showcase timeless local traditions, and historic churches hide ancient splendors. Explore the treasures of the past that have helped to shape the wonders of contemporary culture.

Doge's Palace, Campanile, St. Mark's Basilica and St. Mark's square in Venice, Italy

Dreamlike escape filled with magnificent architecture, ancient ruins, delicious food, breathtaking art, and embracing natural scenery is yours to experience on this 11-day Italy and Sicily trip. From the Sistine Chapel to Michelangelo’s David, exuberant palaces to magnificent towers, your custom-tailored Italy tour with Sicily takes you to unforgettable cities, each brimming with historical delight and treasured enchantment.

Traveling couple on the waterfront, Sicily

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,007

A romantic vacation should encompass exotic landscapes and transcendent experiences. Your custom-tailored romantic getaway to Sicily encompasses the lavish and the beautiful as well as natural wonders and ancient civilizations, combining for an unforgettable whirlwind of passion, history, and flavors. Share pastries in a celebrated bakery, with delectable treats crafted from inherited recipes. Sip wine on a secluded vineyard in view of Europe’s largest active volcano. Witness the magnificence of ancient temples up close. Swim in cobalt-blue waters and lounge on white sand beaches. Indulge in the otherworldly splendor of Sicily with your significant other, for a timeless memory.

Calabria, the southernmost region of Italy

All roads lead to Rome, but your unique path begins in the fascinating heart of Sicily. Historic structures shimmer an aged gold. Emerald grapevines carpet the landscape beneath the shadow of Mount Etna’s peak. Ancient Greek temples speckle the landscape, overlooking olive orchards and orange groves. Cave dwellings honeycomb the walls of a ravine, and conical homes create a fairytale ambiance in the rolling hills of the southern Italian scenery. The radiance of Italy’s south bursts with life and culture, history and charm, ensuring your custom tailored Southern Italy and Sicily tour overflows with all the wonders in between.

Palermo Botanic Gardens in the region of Sicily, Italy

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,575

Discover your private secret garden in Sicily, lush with decorative vines, orange groves and olive orchards; explore the rich soil that creates the incredible fertile landscape. Chefs create unique and widely sought dishes using traditional ingredients grown in personalized private plots. Noble families decorate their estates with blossoming white trees and towering palm fronds. Vineyards comb the fertile foothills of Mount Etna. Baroque palaces frame elegant squares and verdant gardens hide behind ancient Doric ruins. Your custom tailored tour of Sicily’s landscapes and gardens has you strolling along parks and botanical gardens, history, and unforgettable scenery.

The grapes are ripe and ready to harvest. Variety quot uva Italia quot. September, near the city of Agrigento.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,859

Uncover the secrets to a perfect bottle of wine in the unparalleled landscape of Sicily. Follow the trail of an open-air museum dedicated to the different grapes of the island. Sip a sensual red or robust white in an antique farmhouse. Discover the ancient civilizations that settled the hillsides and shores. The subtle flavors of wine are influenced by the soil and elements, nurtured to absorb the qualities of its surroundings. Embark on a luxurious Sicily wine tasting experience that will introduce you to the Planeta estates and has you fall in love with the distinctive characteristic of each property’s wine and production.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,291

Venture beyond “par for the course” on your luxurious golf vacation in Sicily, meant for golf enthusiasts and history lovers, culture aficionados and those that enjoy a delectable glass of wine. Set your tee on a course positioned alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Embark on the finest of Sicily private tours , and follow a footpath leading you to incredible ancient Doric temples peppering the hills. Sample the local wine of a boutique vineyard with a backdrop of Mount Etna and indulge in a panorama of the azure water shimmering in the Bay of Naxos. Your custom tailored tour brims with golf greatness, sensational scenery, and ineffable culture.

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7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,455

Sicily will enchant you with its stunning architecture, embracing culture, and elegant flavors on your custom tailored Sicily Baroque tour. Elegant statues frame trickling fountains. Locals dine on timeless recipes passed down from generation to generation. Quality olive oil is as coveted as celebrated wine, and sampled with the same reverence. Marketplaces alight with the colorful rinds of fresh produce. The aroma of citrus emanates from wild orange groves. Sicily’s layered history emboldens and enhances the wonders of its contemporary lifestyle, from the cities to the countryside, and to those that hold its traditions dear.

Sicily is the home of past kings and fabled warriors, ancient cities and celebrated mosaics. Your Sicily tour is specially customized, specializing in showing you the true heritage of the island that housed historic cities larger than Athens and temples grander than those found in Delphi. Baroque architecture highlights the grandeur of the bygone and illuminates the celebrated culture of towns and cities across the landscape. Vibrant markets persist. Jovial fishers return from sea, following the gentle tide and searching for the pastel buildings lining the coast. The traditions of Sicily are powerful, exciting, and enchanting.

Dynamic pricing from  $2,501

For fans of the Godfather trilogy, this custom tailored Godfather tour in Sicily is an offer you can’t refuse. Retrace the footsteps of Vito and Michael Corleone around the villages of Sicily. Listen to the echoes of familial rivalries that have spanned generations. Witness lavish historic palaces and breathtaking Baroque churches that influenced the powerful rise of the infamous Cosa Nostra, of which the Corleone Family fictitiously took part. Discover the depths in which the mafia spurred the growth of Sicily and how the crime families, large and small, captured imaginations across the world.

Bask in the simultaneously simple and complex flavors of Sicily in a paradise that you never knew existed. The Mediterranean Sea sparkles along the golden sandy beaches. Greek ruins adorn hilltops and overlook the surrounding valleys. Citrus orchards and olive groves provide ample tastes of the island’s natural flavors. Wineries blanket the undulating landscape and chocolateries fill the streets with indulgent rich aromas. Your Sicily culinary tour is custom tailored to your desires, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cuisine of Sicily that can be rustic or refined, sweet or savory, and is never less than scintillating.

Sicily is a very distinctive region of Italy, filled with unique personality stemming from architecture that spans thousands of years. The coastline undulates between pristine beaches to remarkable cliffs. Mount Etna looms over wineries and cities, puffing smoke and spouting lava. Baroque palaces line charming piazzas. Marvelous frescoes decorate historic churches. Greek temples continue to stand tall along the edges of a modern city. Cobblestone streets twist and turn alongside medieval homes. Your custom tailored Sicily culture tour brings you to the unforgettable wonders of Sicily, embodied in the buildings, cuisine, and scenery scattered across the island.

Your view over the water brings an endless azure panorama sweeping upwards into the looming conical peak of Mount Etna. Ancient Greek temples decorate the valley floor, their pearl marble color standing out against the rugged hillsides. A Norman castle contains elements of Arabic décor and the Riace Warriors show bearded, muscular figures cut from bronze. Your custom tailored Sicily tour takes you through the unparalleled history around the island, showcasing the splendor of the past and the unique culture of the present.

The finer details of Jewish tradition have left a tangible mark on Sicily, adorning ancient buildings and shaping local culture. A hidden mikveh (bath used for ritual immersion) continues to bubble with fresh spring water. Stars of David decorate municipal buildings in towns that have not had a Jewish community for centuries. Synagogue foundations and demarcations of Jewish Quarters are found throughout the region. Jewish culture and traditions are as spirited and as tenacious as the people who hold these values dear. Your Jewish cultural tour of Sicily highlights the influence of Sicily’s Jewish population in the art, architecture, and cuisine on a luxury excursion of a unique and untold history.

Puffs of smoke drift into the blue sky from the various craters of Mount Etna. Vineyards sweep across the foothills adding lush vines to the rugged landscape and absorbing the unique characteristics of the terrain. A local chef prepares artichokes in a farmhouse overlooking the lush prairie, and a decadent aroma fills the kitchen. Your gourmet Sicily tour shows you the flavors of the island, from brilliant wines to eclectic cuisine, ancient architecture to exquisite Mediterranean waters. Discover majestic Greek ruins and Norman mosaics, each day adding a wealth of pleasures for the senses.

The discoveries of Sicily are endless on an island bursting with ancient wonders and vivacious culture, stunning landscape and iridescent beaches. Medieval towns crown towering mountains offering unparalleled views. Breathtaking Doric temples rise from valleys overlooking wild olive groves. Celebrated chocolate shops share with you their recipes passed down for hundreds of years. Cobblestone paths wind through antique buildings and into open elegant piazzas adorned with graceful churches. Your custom-tailored discover Sicily tour lets you explore Sicily like a local, relishing the thrill of adventure, the excitement of discovery, and the soothing calm of daily life.

Magnificent marble columns and powerful seaside castles inspire the entire family, keeping the kids engaged and creating unparalleled memories on your custom-tailored Sicily tour for families. Gold sand beaches line the shores. Vibrant markets fill the cities with the aroma of refreshing citrus. Ancient temples rise over olive trees. Baroque palaces decorate inviting squares. Mosaics create layers of opulence in chapel and cathedral naves, and the towering summit of Mount Etna is a constant promise of adventure. The family will feel inspired during your unforgettable time in the Mediterranean island charms of Sicily.

The ancient lives, modern wonders, and cultural pleasures of Malta and Sicily surpass all expectation. Your custom-tailored tour of Sicily and Malta immerses you in unparalleled splendor, from ancient Greek temples to medieval fortresses. The protective ramparts of small towns create a fairytale ambiance for you to enjoy. Baroque palaces frame charming cobblestone piazzas. You will experience the luxuries of country estates and the comforts of lavish hotels overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Traditions encompass millennia of settlers traveling from across the globe as the scent of fresh citrus lingers from wild orchards.

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Tropea on the east coast of Calabria, in southern Italy

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Buyouts & hotels with villas.

Buyouts of entire small boutique properties gives you the amenities and services of the hotel and a safe get-together with your close friends.

From a week-long family reunion in Noto countryside to a weekend escape in a wine hotel, get in touch for our favourite small properties that you can buy out in their entirety and take over with friends for holidays.

Buyouts of small boutique properties and private villas within luxury hotels have been the scenery for many of our itineraries over the years. Needless to say, they are now becoming a favourite way of travel as they ensure you gather with your group of friends and family in own private space.

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Ragusa Ilba as seen from above in the Val di Noto, a must-see place during a Sicily road trip itinerary

The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary

Beautiful, mysterious Sicily, with its looming volcano, sparkling azure waters, and hilltop villages, is one of those travel destinations that I have spent most of my life dreaming about. After finally taking a Sicily road trip, I can say confidently that the island was worth the wait… and that we’ll be working our way through another Sicily itinerary before too long.

The largest island in the Mediterranean truly does have it all: whether you’re looking to lounge on a beach, dive headfirst into the cuisine, explore the Roman (or Greek, or Norman, or Arab, or Byzantine) history, or visit famous Mount Etna, a Sicily road trip has something to offer.

Planning your own trip to Sicily and not sure exactly where to go?

We’ve put together this 10 days in Sicily itinerary for first-timers to the island–this is how to make the most of your first Sicily road trip!

Table of Contents

Why to Take a Sicily Road Trip

How we structured this 10 day sicily itinerary, a note on the language of the island, the ultimate 10 day sicily road trip itinerary, other places to visit on your sicily road trip, sicily road trip itinerary map, what to know about driving in sicily, the best time to visit sicily, what to pack for sicily.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm in the Greek Theatre of Taormina Sicily

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Sicily was made for road tripping: with plenty of wide-open spaces, beautiful natural spots, and tiny towns worth visiting, there are few places in Italy more worthy of hitting the open road than Sicily.

Add in a less-than-ideal public transportation system, and a Sicily road trip quickly emerges as the clear best way to explore the island–but you need to be prepared in order to make the most of it.

Mosaics on the ceiling of the Church of Martorana, Things to See in Palermo Sicily

You could easily create a month-long Sicily itinerary and still leave the island with stones unturned–but let’s face it, most people won’t have that long to spend on the island.

Our Sicily road trip itinerary is designed to hit all the best spots on the island for first-timers to visit, allowing you to get a taste of many different parts of Sicily: complicated yet lovely Palermo, beautiful beaches, and hilltop villages are all covered, as well as some of the most popular cities in Sicily.

Next to each location, we’ve noted the minimum number of full days (so, not counting a day you arrive at 4pm, for example) we’d recommend spending in each location. 

This works out to be quick-paced but reasonable 10 day Sicily itinerary–but if you’re lucky enough to have more time to spend in Sicily, you can extend it far longer, both by increasing the number of days spent in each location and adding new destinations (we’ll provide some suggestions for those below as well).

empty beach as seen on a sunny day in avola sicily with sea on the right side of the photo, as seen as part of a sicily road trip

Though Italian is the official language in Sicily, Sicilian dialect–which is related and yet distinctly different, to the point where Italian speakers will have a hard time understanding it–is widely spoken in Sicily.

In the destinations covered on this Sicily road trip itinerary, you won’t run into many people (especially those who work with or near tourists) who don’t comfortably speak Italian–but if you stop off in smaller towns along the way, you’ll start to hear (and even see, on menus and such) more and more dialect.

As for English, well–like most places in the world, you can get by among those working in the tourism industry by using it, but it’ll be a bit harder here than in most of Italy.

We strongly recommend learning at least some basic Italian phrases before taking your Sicily road trip–the more Italian you speak, the easier your Sicily travels will be.

I don’t speak much Italian, but knowing enough to ask for (and receive) directions, order food in out-of-the-way places, read basic signs, speak with taxi drivers, etc, made our trip a bit simpler.

Kate Storm sitting a table at BamBar in Taormina. There's an orange granita in front of her and yellow tile work behind her. Visiting BamBar is absolutely one of the best things to do in Taormina Sicily!

Palermo: 2 Days

The capital of Sicily is known for being a bit of a rundown place–and though in some ways it is, it’s also a beautiful, laid-back, and endlessly engrossing city. 

We spent an entire week in Palermo and still weren’t ready to leave when it was over, but 2 days in Palermo will be enough to give you a taste of the major sights and start your 10 days in Sicily itinerary off on a great foot.

What to Do in Palermo

Step inside the magnificent palermo cathedral..

Dating back to the 12th century and built in a variety of architectural styles, the beautiful and distinctive Palermo Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in the city.

It’s also home to some very unique touches, like a sundial on the floor marked with zodiac signs and an inscription from the Quran on one of the columns near the entrance–both highly unusual for a Catholic church!

Palermo Cathedral as seen from across the street, a wonderful place to start your 10 days in Sicily itinerary

Take a walking + food tour in order to see some of Palermo’s best highlights, fast.

Taking a Palermo food and walking tour on one of the first days of your Sicily travels is an excellent way to orient yourself both to the city and to the island as a whole.

Explore historical landmarks, markets, and cuisine while also getting a taste of what Palermo is all about with a fabulous food and walking tour.

We took this fun tour during our trip to Palermo and absolutely loved it!

Book your Palermo food + walking tour today!

Outdoor Capo Market food stalls, Best Things to Do in Palermo

Visit the mummies at the Capuchin Crypt of Palermo.

From the 17th to the 19th century in Palermo, increasing numbers of people were mummified in these catacombs–first naturally, and later intentionally, preserving them for all eternity.

The walls of the catacombs are lined with clothed bodies that have their full skeletons intact, staring down at visitors with sometimes disturbingly aware facial features.

No photos are allowed inside, but I can’t impress enough the creepiness of this place–I think it has something to do with the fact that these people are preserved as themselves that adds an extra layer of disturbing to it all, as opposed to places like the catacombs of Paris where the bones are more or less repurposed into artwork using human remains.

If you find catacombs interesting, we highly recommend visiting these during your trip to Sicily–they are, hands down, the most bizarre and fascinating catacombs we have ever seen.

Palermo Travel Tips

You probably don’t need a car here..

Palermo is one of the two major airport hubs in Sicily (Catania is the other), and if you arrive to the island here, we recommend not picking up your rental car until you’re ready to head to Cefalù–it’ll save you both a bit of cash on your rental bill, and a bit of a headache, as you won’t have to worry about parking it.

3 tuk tuks on the street in Palermo, Sicily

The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center is the train.

It costs 5 Euros, avoids the hassle of a taxi, and is perfectly comfortable!

Stay in an ideal location, and you should be able to walk everywhere in Palermo.

This is the biggest reason not to kick off your Sicily road trip until after to leave Palermo: here, a car is a liability but doesn’t really add much of a benefit.

You can walk between all of Palermo’s best things to do, so opt for that instead!

Pretoria Fountain of Palermo Sicily from above, one of the best places to visit in Sicily itinerary

Where to Stay in Palermo

Il Lapino  — Home to simple rooms (some with shared bathrooms) and located only a 10-minute walk from the Palermo Cathedral, Il Lapino is very well-reviewed and is an excellent place to stay in Palermo for those on a budget.

Check rates & book your stay at Il Lapino!

Ciuri Ciuri B&B  — Featuring spacious rooms, included breakfast, and an excellent location, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B while in Palermo!

Check rates & book your stay at Ciuri Ciuri B&B!

Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel  — Boasting near-perfect reviews, Palazzo Natoli is located in the heart of Palermo, just steps from some of the city’s best highlights. Private balcony views, exceptional customer service, and a delicious daily breakfast are all included here–if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing stay in Palermo, this is it!

Check rates & book your stay at Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel!

Square in Palermo: Best Things to Do in Palermo Sicily

Cefalù : 2 Days

Of all the places to visit in Sicily, this is the one outlined on this Sicily road trip itinerary that we personally have the most unfinished business with.

We squeezed a quick visit to Cefalù into one day, but this magnificent seaside town captured our hearts and absolutely deserves more time than that–as we strolled the streets of Cefalù, we fantasized about one day returning here for a month!

In other words, don’t rush: you won’t regret taking two of your 10 days in Sicily to enjoy this beautiful place.

Jeremy Storm sitting on a wall overlooking Cefalu beach, a fabulous stop during a Sicily road trip itinerary

What to Do in Cefalù

Climb to the top of la rocca..

Climbing high over Cefalù to La Rocca takes less than an hour but rewards you with stupendous views over Cefalù and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as providing some interesting stops along the way (namely, the ruins of the Temple of Diana).

Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and ideally, complete this climb in the morning or early evening–the midday sun is brutal up here!

Check out the Cefalù Cathedral.

Not many villages as small as Cefalù have cathedrals as impressive–dating back even further than Palermo’s Cathedral, the Cefalù Duomo is absolutely worth visiting during your Sicily road trip, and if the views at La Rocca weren’t enough for you, you can even climb to the top!

Cefalu Cathedral with a vespa parked in front of it, one of the best things to see on a Sicily road trip itinerary

Enjoy being a beach bum.

One of the best things to do in Cefalù is simply to enjoy its beach that is conveniently located right outside of the old town, where you’re never far from gelato or a granita.

Pull up a stretch of sand, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the beauty of Cefalù without stress.

Cefalu Beach in Sicily Italy, with towels for sale on the right and the sea visible on the left, one of the best places to visit in Sicily travel

Cefalù Travel Tips

Savor getting lost here..

The small streets and occasional unexpected sea views give Cefalù a delightful charm that completely captivated us during our Sicily travels–this small village is worth wandering aimlessly, and due to its small size, it’s impossible to get too lost along the way.

Small street of Cefalu Sicily with cars parked alongside it

Where to Stay in Cefalù

Sweet Home Cefalù  — Located practically next door to Cefalù’s beach and complete with both a balcony and a small kitchen, Sweet Home Cefalù gets rave reviews and is the perfect option for budget travelers in Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Sweet Home Cefalù !

Marina House — What’s better than a well-reviewed apartment in the heart of Cefalù? One that’s located right on the water and includes a balcony overlooking the sea!

Check rates & book your stay at Marina House!

Casa Barone Agnello — Housed in an antique home in the center of Cefalù, this impeccably decorated and well-reviewed apartment is perfect for travelers looking for a bit of old-world charm during their trip to Cefalù.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Barone Agnello!

Restaurant with outdoor tables shaded by awnings outdoors in Piazza Duomo in Cefalu, as seen on a Sicily road trip

Taormina: 2 Days

Taormina is probably the most touristic place on this Sicily itinerary, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth adding to your Sicily travels.

Boasting phenomenal views of both Mount Etna and the sparkling Ionian Sea, great swimming nearby, and an incredible Greek theatre, Taormina is hard not to love.

View of Taormina as seen from grounds of the Greek theatre. You can see the bottom of Mount Etna, the peak is covered by clouds.

What to Do in Taormina

Visit the greek theatre..

Of all the Greek theatres we have visited in world–including ones in Greece itself–this one is by far the prettiest we have ever seen, and a visit here absolutely belongs on your 10 day Sicily itinerary.

On a perfectly clear day, you’ll see an epic view of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea behind the theatre–but even on a slightly cloudy day like when we visited (at least over Mount Etna, that is), the views are still pretty phenomenal.

Kate and Jeremy standing in Greek Theatre in Taormina--visiting this place is easily one of the best things to do in Taormina! Kate and Jeremy are facing each other, Kate is wearing a floral maxi dress.

Take a day trip to Mount Etna.

Want to add a little thrill to your list of things to do in Taormina? Book a day trip to the crater of an active volcano!

On a clear day, the views of  Mount Etna  from Taormina are fantastic–but there’s still nothing like standing on an active volcano with your own two feet.

Whether you want to book  a morning hike ,  a scenic tour , or  a full day trip  that also includes a visit to the beautiful Alcantara Canyons, you’re bound to find a visit to Mount Etna that appears to your travel style.

Book your day trip to Mount Etna today! Morning Hike  |  Scenic Tour  |  Full Day Trip

Go for a swim at Isola Bella.

Home to what are widely considered to be the best beaches in Taormina, summer visitors should definitely add a visit to Isola Bella to their Sicily road trip itinerary!

Though you can easily reach the island yourself from Taormina via the cable car,  a cruise along the coast  paired with visits to the island’s best swimming spots is an excellent day to spend a hot day in Taormina!

Book your  boat cruise around Isola Bella  today!

Photo of the Ionian Sea as seen from Taormina. There are cacti in the foreground of the photo.

Taormina Travel Tips

Not everything is within walking distance..

In order to visit some of Taormina’s most popular sights like Isola Bella, and its beaches in general, you’ll need to head down to the seaside via cable car.

Check the weather carefully.

If you’re in town for a couple of days and one day looks clearer than the other, use the clearer day to visit Mount Etna (or if you don’t want to head all the way to Mount Etna, admire views of it from the Greek Theatre).

kate storm sitting on a garden wall in taormina sicily overlooking the ionian sea, one of the best places to visit in italy summer

Where to Stay in Taormina

Hostel Taormina  — Boasting great reviews and a perfect location in Taormina’s Old Town, Hostel Taormina is the perfect place for budget travelers looking to keep costs down in what is arguably Sicily’s most expensive city.

Both private rooms and dorms are available, and a shared kitchen is located in the hostel.

The only downside? No parking options–so keep that in mind if you choose to book a stay here!

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Taormina!

Photo of Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina Sicily

Hotel Natalina  — We had a great time at this little hotel!

The location is a short walk from Taormina’s Old Town, the included breakfast quite large by Italian standards, and the customer service excellent. The staff helped us park our rental car for free nearby, which we greatly appreciated!

The rooms are large, but a bit dated–this certainly isn’t a luxury hotel, but it’s definitely a cozy enough place to stay while visiting Taormina, and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Natalina!

Hotel Continental  — Want to admire the sea views that Taormina is famous for from the comfort of your hotel, while also staying in the lap of luxury?

If so, the Hotel Continental is for you!

Known for its superb location in the heart of Taormina, its views, and its wonderful included breakfast, luxury travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Continental!

Photo of a street in Taormina Sicily with cars parked on either side. There's a church visible toward the back of the photo.

Syracuse: 2 Days

Packed with ancient ruins, beautiful churches, and a maze of quiet streets, Syracuse (or Siracusa) is second only to Taormina in tourism popularity for Sicily vacations.

For your 2 days in Syracuse, we recommend focusing primarily on the island of Ortigia (or Ortygia), which is a small island right off the coast of Sicily (and I do mean right off the coast–no ferry necessary) that is essentially Syracuse’s lovely old town.

Parade in Syracuse Sicily with a drummer in the foreground looking away from the camera

What to Do in Syracuse

Check out castello maniace..

Located on the far edge of Ortigia, this citadel-slash-castle dates to the 13th century (an earlier castle on the site dated to the 11th) and boasts beautiful views over the Ionian Sea.

Stroll through the small streets of Ortigia.

Ortigia is a charming place, and we found that we loved it most when wandering the streets in search of coffee bars, churches (we stumbled across one with a festival going on inside!), and the island’s many ruins.

Be sure to make your way to the Piazza Duomo and the Fountain of Arethusa during your wandering!

small street in Syracuse Sicily with flags outside the shop windows

Marvel at the Temple of Apollo.

Of all the ancient ruins in Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo is considered the most important.

Dating to the 6th century BCE, the temple has served a whole host of functions over the centuries, including acting as a temple to both Apollo and Artemis, as a church (more than once), and as a mosque.

Syracuse Travel Tips

Stay in ortigia if you can..

This is essentially the old town of Syracuse and is set on an island nearby the main part of the modern city.

It’s beautiful, easy to get lost in, and delightfully fun to explore on foot, making it the perfect place to stay in Syracuse. 

The only catch is what to do with your car, which leads me to…

Church on the island of Ortigia in Syracuse Sicily, as seen on a Sicily road trip

Choose where you park in advance.

Parking is severely restricted on the island of Ortigia, and on our Sicily road trip we ended up driving in circles for a bit trying to find the right place to leave our car.

Learn from our mistakes and plan carefully beforehand!

Consider visiting the Greek Theatre on your way into or out of Syracuse.

Syracuse’s Greek Theatre is one of its most popular attractions, however, it’s completely across town from Ortigia.

It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick sightseeing break as you arrive in or leave the city, though.

Empty road in Sicily with green fields on either side

Where to Stay in Syracuse

Room Calafatari — Ortigia is peppered with dozens of small, simple apartments that are used as budget rentals, and Room Calafatari is both a great option and the perfect example of what to expect in Ortigia in a budget price range: no frills but a great location.

Check rates & book your stay at Room Calafatari!

Hotel Posta — With a fabulous location overlooking a port and within a short walk of many of Syracuse’s top attractions, Hotel Posta is a prime choice for mid-range travelers on their Sicily road trip.

Personally, we’d be tempted to upgrade to a room with a balcony–those views are just too good to pass up.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Posta!

Hotel Livingston — With excellent reviews, and included breakfast, and a prime location on the edge of Ortigia (most rooms include a sea view!), luxury travelers (or just those looking for a splurge) can’t go wrong with a stay at 4-star Hotel Livingston during their 10 day Sicily itinerary!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Livingston!

Pastry and cappuccino breakfast in Syracuse Sicily shot from above

Val di Noto: 2 Days

Sicily’s Val di Noto is littered with stunning Baroque towns, rolling hills, lovely wine country, and some of the best chocolate in the world–in other words, it’s definitely a place that belongs on your 10 days in Sicily itinerary.

What to Do in the Val di Noto

Hop between the beautiful baroque towns..

Eight of the towns in the Val di Noto are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their incredible Baroque architecture: Ragusa, Modica, Noto, Scicli, Palazzo Acreide, Caltagirone, Militello in Val di Catania, and finally, Catania itself.

Obviously, that is a bit much to cover with just 2 days of your trip to Sicily.

We recommend prioritizing Ragusa, Noto, Modica, and if you have time, Scicli.

Church in Ragusa Sicily set on a steep hill as seen during a Sicily travel itinerary

Admire views of Ragusa Ilba.

Beautiful Ragusa is divided into two sections: Ragusa Superiore (the upper town) and Ragusa Ilba (the lower town).

The views of Ragusa Ilba looking down from Ragusa Superiore may just be some of the best views in this entire Sicily itinerary, which is really saying something!

Kate Storm in a blue skirt overlooking Ragusa Ilba from Ragusa Superiore, one of the best views on this 10 days in Sicily itinerary

Snack on chocolate in Modica.

The beautiful town of Modica is world-famous for its chocolate, which boasts a recipe that originally hails from none other than the Aztecs.

The chocolate is created with “cold processing”, giving it a characteristic grainy texture, inconsistent color, and delicious taste.

Val di Noto Travel Tips

Choose where to stay carefully..

Think about your travel style when you choose where to stay in the Val di Noto: do you want to be the heart of the action? Do you want to be able to do plenty of sightseeing without driving? Would you prefer a countryside stay so that you can easily come and go without worrying about parking or driving through a town to do so?

Personally, we chose to stay in Ragusa for its relative popularity and central location and were very happy with the choice.

Prosciutto and cheese platter with bread as seen from above--be sure to eat plenty of delicious food like this during your 10 days in Sicily!

Don’t try to see more than 1-2 towns a day.

The Baroque towns of the Val di Noto may look very close together on a map, but add in small, winding roads, the hassles of finding a place to park and making your way (often uphill) to the picturesque town centers, and the delights of savoring each spot, and it’s definitely best to limit your movements when possible.

We recommend sticking to seeing 1-2 towns per day in this section of your Sicily road trip itinerary.

Steep staircase in Ragusa with a church tower on the right and Ragusa Ilba visible in the distance

Where to Stay in Val di Noto

For the sake of simplicity, we’ve outlined a few well-reviewed places to stay in Ragusa here, but staying somewhere like Modica or Noto will also easily work with this 10 day Sicily itinerary!

SanVito Hostel — With excellent reviews, a prime location in Ragusa near Piazza San Giovanni, an included breakfast, and a gorgeous terrace offering panoramic views of the Val di Noto, SanVito Hostel is a phenomenal option for budget travelers during their Sicily road trip.

Check rates & book your stay at SanVito Hostel!

Hotel Il Barocco — Cozy and comfortable, this small hotel is located in a 19th-century building in central Ragusa, making it the perfect launching pad for your sightseeing. With excellent reviews and a fabulous included breakfast, Hotel Il Barocco is a reliable choice in Ragusa for your Sicily vacation.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Il Barocco!

San Giorgio Palace — Located in the heart of Ragusa Ilba, popular San Giorgio Palace boasts very spacious rooms, as well as modern decor and amenities (including a very well-reviewed included breakfast) in a picture-perfect setting, with some rooms that overlook the valley.

Check rates & book your stay at San Giorgio Palace!

Plate of pasta in Sicily Italy as seen from above

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days in Sicily–or you just prefer an even more fast-paced Sicily road trip–there are plenty more incredible places to visit in Sicily to add to your list!

Here are a few more beautiful places to see in Sicily that you might want to add to your itinerary.

View of Sicily with the Meditteranean Sea in the foreground, taken from a plane window

The ancient Valley of the Temples outside of Agrigento is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Sicily.

Once a thriving Ancient Greek city, these ruins are remarkably well-preserved and far less crowded than many better-known Greek ruins throughout Europe.

Located just outside of Palermo, Mondello is best known today for its long stretch of beach, which is one of the most popular places for beach days for both tourists and locals who are staying in Palermo.

This laid-back beach town is perfect for kicking back and enjoying long stretches of sandy beach–in fact, if you want a little more swimming to be included on your Sicily vacation beyond what’s outlined in this 10 day Sicily itinerary, you can even add a quick stop in Avola during your drive from Syracuse to the Baroque towns of the Val di Noto.

Long stretch of empty beach in Avola Sicily with the clear sea visible on the left, an excellent stop on any Sicily road trip itinerary

Aeolian Islands

Also sometimes called the Lipari Islands, this stunning volcanic island chain is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts some of the most magnificent sea views in all of Sicily (which is, as you can imagine, very high praise).

Located in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania is Sicily’s second-largest city and second airport hub–you’ll likely fly into and out of either Palermo or Catania (in fact, for this Sicily road trip itinerary it’s easiest to fly into Palermo and out of Catania if you can swing it).

Though Catania is far from Sicily’s most popular tourist attraction, it’s definitely worth a bit of exploring if you happen to be passing through!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Driving in Sicily truly deserves its own post, but here are some essential tips to know before embarking on your Sicily road trip!

Shop around for your rental car.

There are dozens of rental car companies operating in Sicily, all with their own prices and rental agreements. We recommend shopping through Discover Cars in order to search through multiple companies at once.

Not only will you be able to compare prices easily, but you’ll also be able to compare rental inclusions (like insurance, kilometers allotted, etc.), which we found varied dramatically among different rental car companies in Sicily!

Price Sicily rental cars with Discover Cars today!

Jeremy Storm leaning against a small black Sicily rental car looking out over an empty road in Sicily

The driving honestly isn’t as bad as it is portrayed… but it’s not easy.

There’s no way around it: driving in Sicily has a pretty terrible reputation.

However, ultimately, we walked away feeling that driving in Sicily was easier than expected–but we fully admit this impression is likely partially because of how nervous we were about doing it.

The major roads in Sicily are perfectly well maintained–smaller roads, not so much, so beware of potholes. City driving is the trickiest while traveling between cities on major highways is fairly simple.

Drivers can be a bit aggressive, yes, but we wouldn’t say they were drastically more aggressive than in, say, Tuscany.

As much as Sicily has a reputation for being its own world, particularly when it comes to driving, driving in Sicily felt pretty much like driving anywhere else in Italy (which is, admittedly, a harder place to drive than some).

Bear in mind that we are coming at this from the perspective of people who drove daily for nearly a decade and have road-tripped through many countries, including Italy, before. You do need to be a confident, well-practiced driver to comfortably drive in Sicily.

Taking a Sicily road trip if driving makes you anxious, you’re out of practice, you don’t like to drive, or you’ve never driven outside your home country is likely not the best idea.

Also–this is not the place to learn to drive a manual. Unless you are very confident with one, we recommend paying extra for an automatic transmission.

Porta Nuova, Best Things to Do in Palermo Sicily

… But be sure you have insurance (preferably with no deductible/excess).

We didn’t incur any damage to our rental car in Sicily… but when we dropped it off, both rentals parked on either side of us had huge dents in them!

Due to the aggressive driving, small roads, and distances covered on this Sicily road trip, we’d recommend purchasing insurance with no deductible/excess for the time it takes you to work through this 10 day Sicily itinerary–it’s simply one less thing to worry about on the road.

Winding roads in Sicily with Ragusa Ilba visible in the background, a must-see during 10 days in Sicily

Rent the smallest car you can manage.

Tiny roads. Cramped historic centers. Parking lots where cars are parked a mere inch apart (and the lines denoting where the parking places should be seen as mere suggestions at best–people park over them regularly).

Truly, renting a big car in Sicily is a liability, not a benefit. 

We recommend renting the tiniest car you can squeeze your group + luggage into. If the rental desk suggests an upgrade? Turn it down.

Carry lots of coins.

You will pay tolls when driving in Sicily, especially in northern half of the island, so come prepared with a cupholder full of Euros.

Coast of Sicily near Avola with the sea visible on the right side of the photo, as seen on a Sicily road trip

Don’t underestimate the time it takes to drive between destinations.

There were days that we pulled into our hotel’s parking space exactly when Google Maps said that we would–and days (like the day we had to catch a flight) that we ended up way behind schedule due to road work and an unfortunate accident that we got stuck behind.

Definitely leave yourself plenty of extra time on days that you have somewhere to be at a specific time!

Quiet street in Francavilla Sicily on a rainy day with cars parked along the edge

July and August are peak tourism season in Sicily, and while the beaches will be warm and the sun shining, it’s best to avoid taking your Sicily road trip during those months if you hope to avoid peak crowds and prices.

Luckily, Sicily is characterized by its brilliant weather that allows for swimming over nearly half the year! 

Personally, we’d recommend aiming for a September or early October trip to Sicily if you hope to swim your heart out, and a late April or May trip if you want to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds while still thawing out after a long winter.

Over the winter, lots of small, tourist-focused businesses close and the island, especially in smaller towns, quiets down significantly–but if a slow-paced, off-season 10 days in Sicily itinerary sounds right up your alley, you’ll certainly find plenty of peaceful spots to savor.

View of a beach along the Ionian Sea as seen by peaking through a gate at Villa Comunale, one of the best places to visit in Taormina Sicily!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Sicily road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing  for trips to Italy.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your Sicily road trip. Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy with World Nomads that covers car rental (only some of theirs do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: in Sicily, it’s worth the peace of mine.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car in Sicily, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before coming to Italy. It is required for all car rentals in Italy, and while the rental company may not ask, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. 

sicily luxury trip

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

sicily luxury trip

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “The Ultimate Sicily Road Trip: An Epic 10 Days in Sicily Itinerary”

From someone who has family and typically visits for +30 days every other year, you did a very nice job with the article….many, many other wonder ful places to see and things to experience on the island, and the Eolian, and Egadi…..

Thanks Anthony! We can’t wait to make it back and explore more of Sicily.

Oh waooo Its amazing to know these valuable Information provided by you. Next month we have plan to visit Sicily and these information will be very helpfull. Thank you

Happy to hear that, Josef! Hope you guys have a great time in Sicily. 🙂

Wow! That was a very helpful article! I am bookmarking it multiple places so I don’t lose it before our trip in June. Thank you so much for your great tips and very practical advice.

Thanks, Vrinda! Hope you guys have a blast in Sicily!

Quiet a lot of information . One question if not interested in driving then the other options .

You definitely can visit Sicily without a car, but it’s a bit trickier than up on the mainland where there’s more train service.

Essentially, without a car your options are to stick with one town or city as a base and use guided tours to visit more rural areas, cobble together an itinerary with train and bus service (doable, but not as simple as in, say, Florence), or sign up for a full multi-day guided tour of Sicily.

Personally the first option falls most in line with how we tend to travel. Taormina is one of the most popular bases for a trip like that, as many cruise ships stop there and there are lots of options for guided tours to Mount Etna, wine country, etc.

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sicily luxury trip

Luxury Italy Tours

Highlights of Italy (10 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome

Classic Italy (12 Days) Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Italy in a Week (7 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome

Essence of Italy (13 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Capri

Romantic Italy (12 Days) Amalfi Coast & Capri, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Italy in Style (14 Days) Lake Como & Milan, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Capri

Exclusive Italy (15 Days) Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Venice, Lake Como

Best of the Amalfi Coast & Capri (9 Days) Positano, Capri, Ravello

Family Tour of Italy (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Tuscany, Venice, Lake Como

Luxuries of Northern Italy (11 Days) Venice, Bologna, Milan, Lake Como

Rome in Depth (6 Days)

Venice & Beyond (9 Days) Venice, Milan, Lake Como

Indulgent Tuscany (9 Days) Florence, Tuscan hills, Tuscan coast

Luxuries of Southern Italy (8 Days) Rome, Amalfi Coast with Pompeii, Naples & Capri

Lake Como & Portofino (7 Days) Lake Como & Bellagio, Portofino & Cinque Terre

Food & Wine Tour of Italy (11 Days) Piedmont, Bologna & Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany & Florence

Highlights of Puglia (6 Days) Savelletri di Fasano, Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Lecce, Ostuni, Polignano a Mare

Best of Puglia & Amalfi Coast (9 Days) Savelletri di Fasano, Alberobello, Cisternino, Locorotondo, Lecce, Ostuni, Matera, Ravello, Amalfi, Positano, Capri

Puglia in Depth (7 Days) Lecce & Otranto, Savelletri di Fasano with Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, Cisternino and Locorotondo

Jewish Heritage: Italy (12 Days) Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome

Garden Tour of Italy (10 Days) Lake Como, Florence & Tuscany, Rome & Tivoli

Italy for Art Lovers (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Assisi, Bologna & Ravenna, Venice & Padua, Milan

Best of Southern Italy & Sicily (17 Days) Rome, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Naples & Pompeii, Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Taormina with Syracuse & Mount Etna

Journey Through Italy (20 Days) Lake Como, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi Coast, Puglia

Best of Piedmont (5 Days)

Introduction to the Dolomites (4 Days) San Cassiano, Val Badia, Val Gardena, Bolzano

Best of the Dolomites (6 Days) Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tre Cime, Lago di Braies, San Cassiano, Val Badia, Val Gardena, Bolzano

Luxury Sicily Tours

Introduction to Sicily (6 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Agrigento, Taormina & Mount Etna

A Week in Sicily (7 Days) Palermo, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Essence of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Luxuries of Sicily (10 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Taormina with Mount Etna & Syracuse

Highlights of Sicily (11 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca, Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Journey Through Sicily (12 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca, Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Design & Gardens Tour of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Taormina with Noto, Syracuse & Villa Romana del Casale

Culinary Tour of Sicily (9 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Trapani & Marsala, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Modica, Taormina & Mount Etna

Jewish Tour of Sicily (9 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Agrigento & Agira, Noto with Syracuse, Ragusa, Catania & Mount Etna, Taormina & Messina

Active Family Tour of Sicily (11 Days) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Modica, Ragusa & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

Multi-Country Tours

Highlights of Italy & Greece (14 Days) Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Rome, Athens, Mykonos, Santorini

Family Tour of London, Paris & Rome (10 Days) London, Paris, Rome

Luxuries of Switzerland & Italy (11 Days) Lausanne, Interlaken, Lucerne, Lake Como

France & Italy: Best of the Riviera (7 Days) Cote d'Azur, Portofino & Cinque Terre

Introduction to Switzerland & Italy (9 Days) Lausanne, Zermatt or Gstaad, Lake Como

Best of Slovenia & Venice (9 Days) Ljubljana with Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Portoroz with Piran & Brda, Venice

Highlights of Sicily & Malta (12 days) Palermo with Monreale & Segesta, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna, Valletta with Mdina, Rabat & Gozo

Best of Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia & Venice (17 days) Montenegro, Dubrovnik & Peljesac Peninsula, Split with Hvar, Pakleni Islands & Plitvice Lakes National Park, Ljubljana with Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Venice

Essence of Sicily

(8 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis ) Palermo with Monreale, Segesta & Erice, Sciacca & Agrigento, Noto with Ragusa, Modica & Syracuse, Taormina & Mount Etna

This private, comprehensive luxury tour features the highlights of Sicily.

Begin in  Palermo . The vibrant capital of Sicily, Palermo is home to some of Italy's most fascinating cultural gems including impressive private museums, the country's largest opera house and a robust food culture. During private touring, explore lively local markets, the old Arab quarter and unique UNESCO-listed Arab-Norman architecture. Also, take a private excursion to Monreale  for a private tour of the stunning cathedral, a masterpiece of Arab, Norman and Byzantine art.

Next, tour the highlights of northwestern Sicily. Visit  Segesta  to see the amphitheater and well-preserved Doric temple in a bucolic hillside setting. Also tour  Erice , a medieval hilltop village that's filled with cobblestone streets, flowering vines and the aroma of almond pastries, a local specialty.

Continue to  Sciacca , a luxurious resort destination on the Mediterranean. In Sciacca, visit the local village, known for its ceramics and coral studios, and enjoy the resort's extensive leisure facilities and excellent restaurants. One day, take a private excursion to a renowned winery to sample some of Sicily's best wines and unique varietals.

Next, tour ancient  Agrigento  and the  Valley of the Temples , an outstanding collection of well-preserved Hellenistic ruins and early Christian sites that's one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Mediterranean.

Continue to the UNESCO-listed Baroque towns of  Noto ,  Modica  and  Ragusa . Stay in a luxury boutique hotel in the center of Noto, and enjoy private touring of the atmospheric backstreets, important architectural highlights, and the town's renowned gelato and pastry shops. Visit nearby Modica and sample its famous chocolate, which is still made according to Aztec recipes brought from Mexico by the Spanish conquistadors. Also tour Ragusa and the labyrinthine streets in the ancient hill town of neighboring Ragusa Ibla. Next, tour  Syracuse , a powerful city in antiquity. Tour the city with an expert private guide and explore highlights such as the Greek theater, Roman amphitheater, the ancient cathedral, the cave known as the Ear of Dionysius, the historic center of the island of Ortygia, charming seaside neighborhoods and elegant architecture.

Continue to  Taormina , a historic clifftop town overlooking the sea. One day, enjoy a private excursion to  Mount Etna , an active volcano synonymous with Sicily whose fertile soil supports vineyards, orchards and farms. Tour some of the most interesting volcanic sites on the mountain, and enjoy a lunch that incorporates the best of Sicily's fresh, regional ingredients and locally produced wine. In Taormina, also enjoy free time to explore the Greek theater, beautiful gardens, bougainvillea-lined backstreets and local boutiques. There will also be time to enjoy the extensive facilities at your luxury resort overlooking the Bay of Naxos.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

sicily luxury trip

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

sicily luxury trip

Testimonials

This Italy trip was the trip of a lifetime. The accommodations were wonderful. Your restaurant recommendations were always excellent. We cannot think of anyone but Artisans of Leisure who could have made this trip so marvelous.  ~ D.S., Fort Washington, PA

We had experiences and opportunities throughout Italy that we never would have had if we were traveling independently. Our trip was spectacular. Thank you for your excellent planning and insight, and for selecting such lovely, memorable rooms in each hotel. ~ S.G., New York, NY

Thank you for organizing such a wonderful trip to Italy for our family! The knowledgeable guides saved us from standing in lines and expertly maneuvered us through the cities and museums.   ~ P.R., Laguna Niguel, CA

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A Sicilian Odyssey

  • 2024 Small Group

Accommodations

  • Pricing & Availability
  • Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

Culture Through the Ages Escorted Sicily Tour

Experience with tauck

TAUCK EXCLUSIVES – Private lunch at a Baron's palazzo in Siracusa with a wine tasting from the family vineyard and dinner and an art tour with the son of a baroness at their private villa in Palermo

Tauck Value Includes

Visit to Palermo's grand Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele, the largest opera house in Italy

Visits to the Sicilian Baroque UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Noto and Ragusa Ibla

Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

Discover cultural footprints forever present... O ver the centuries, the island of Sicily was colonized by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Normans and assorted others before becoming part of Spain, then the Bourbon Kingdom, and finally part of Italy. And today...

Private tour of palermo's teatro massimo, behind-the-scenes at italy's largest opera house, palermo's teatro massimo vittorio emanuele.

The largest theatre in Italy and Europe's third-largest opera house, Palermo's Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele opened in 1897 – 22 years after construction began – with a production of Verdi's "Falstaff." Its neoclassical exterior was inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture, while its auditorium reflects the style of the Renaissance and features excellent acoustics, as you'll see (and hear) on your guided tour of this grand venue. Closed for 23 years starting in the 1970s, the Teatro Massimo – the location where the final scenes of "The Godfather, Part III" were filmed – was restored and reopened in time for its centennial in 1997.

Reception and dinner at a private villa

An exclusive reception, dinner and art tour hosted by a family member at a private villa in palermo.

Built in the 18th century for the King of Naples, Ferdinand I and Queen Maria Carolina of Borbone (an older sister of Queen Marie Antoinette of France) during their exile in Sicily, Villa Chiaramonte Bordonaro is still home to the Barons Chiaramonte Bordonaro today, and its gardens rank among the most beautiful parks in Palermo. The villa's current owners often open up their home for special events… like your exclusive private visit and gala dinner, to which you are welcomed by the son of the current Baroness, who hosts a tour of his family's villa and their private art collection housed in a building designed by Ernesto Basile, the architect of the Teatro Massimo.

Verdura Golf & Spa Resort

Nights 3 and 4

An alluring Sicilian escape....

An irresistible destination boasting miles of private Mediterranean coastline, Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is a place where your room will seem woven subtly into the Sicilian landscape... where you'll enjoy a true sense of space and uninterrupted views of the azure waters from your private terrace.

Sicily is an island of wild beauty and history, with a culture that dates back to antiquity. The tour encapsulated the passion and pride of a Sicily one must experience.

Tauck Traveler Review

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Take The Details With You

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Grand hotel ortigia.

Siracusa, Sicily, Italy

Eremo Della Giubiliana

Ragusa, Sicily, Italy

Verdura Resort

Sciacca, Sicily

Grand Hotel et des Palmes

Palermo, Italy

Grand Hotel Timeo

Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Your journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Italy; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

  • Tour Name and Departure Date
  • Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
  • Traveler's Address(es)
  • Email Address*
  • Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
  • Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
  • Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
  • Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
  • Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

  • Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
  • Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
  • Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
  • Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
  • Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
  • Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Italy. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

A Sicilian Odyssey is an active and extensive tour. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Sicily is home to innumerable historic buildings and sites, some dating from antiquity. Therefore, roads, walkways and architecture will present challenges for you if you have difficulty walking independently and, therefore, we do not recommend this tour if you have such difficulty. You will encounter cobblestone streets, narrow passageways, and steep and winding hill town roads. The amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your sole discretion; you may remain on the coach during any of these walking excursions.

Examples of our walking itinerary:

  • Agrigento 2 hours of walking over mainly even terrain
  • Noto - cobblestoned but flat walkways
  • Siracusa - uneven terrain at Archaeological Park
  • Taormina - steep walkways throughout city center

In addition, coach travel along the many "Yellow Roads" on this tour are very windy and may cause you some discomfort if you are prone to motion sickness. If you are, we advise bringing motion sickness remedies or medication with you.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Sicily has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild and wet winters and hot, dry summers. Summer temperatures are often above 90°F (32°C) during the day and drop to about 70°F (21°C) at night. In the fall the temperatures range from 60 to 80°F (16 to 27°C). Rainfall can occur anytime throughout the year, though the summer months are the driest.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

When packing for your trip to Sicily, it is important to keep in mind the time of year you are traveling and the current weather conditions for that time. The weather in Italy is temperate and unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but certainly be comfortable.

Most Catholic churches in Italy require that your knees and shoulders be covered when you enter, even during the hot days of summer.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. By law in Italy, irons and ironing boards are not made available to guests at the hotels. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Italy:

  • Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
  • An optional jacket and tie for men
  • Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
  • A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
  • Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
  • Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
  • Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
  • Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
  • Daypack for camera equipment
  • Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
  • Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Our go-to guide to Sicily hotels

Including, and certainly not limited to, a restored farmhouse at the foot of a volcano..

Jennifer V. Cole

While The White Lotus ’s second season majorly renewed interest in Sicily , there’s so much more to this complex Mediterranean island than Taormina’s hilltop idyll. The beauty of Sicily lies in its diversity, from the basalt shoreline at the base of Mt. Etna and the limestone cliffs along the southeastern coast to the rich farmland inland.

I first visited in 1998 and made a seaside village outside Catania my full-time home in 2018. You could spend a lifetime—and I intend to—learning the nuances of this magical place that countless civilizations have called home over the centuries. And where you decide to sleep—whether it’s a restored historic villa, a country farmhouse, or a modern urban oasis—will greatly impact your impression of Italy’s crown jewel. These five Sicilian hotels are some of my very favorites.

For design buffs: Habitat Boutique Hotel

The dining room for Habitat with shelves lined in bottles.

In the heart of Catania’s historic center, where (partially) organized chaos is the rule of the land, Habitat offers an urban oasis. Created by hospitality-minded architects—part of the building houses a studio—the whole ethos of the space is built on sustainability, respect for the past, and total immersion of the senses. Once you enter the main door, just steps from the Bellini opera house , you’re transported into a calming Mediterranean courtyard with an aromatic vertical herb garden. Without fail, I can feel my whole body relax the moment I step inside.

Room scene: The vibe is industrial luxury–meets–historic preservation in the property’s 16 rooms, where contemporary furnishings accentuate the building’s historic features. If you can, book a Sky Deluxe room on the top floor, which features velux windows built into the roof for you to take in the cityscape.

Restaurant report: The hotel’s attached restaurant, Materia Spazio Cucina , is a destination in and of itself. Chef Bianca Celano is a leader in modern Sicilian food, working with small producers, keeping an eye on sustainability, and pulling from centuries of tradition to produce stunning dishes that surprise the palate. On a recent visit, I was wowed by the delicate croaker (or ombrina)—a sustainable Mediterranean alternative to sea bass—with oregano and tuna garum (a fermented fish sauce) that was served under a blanket of grilled lettuce.

Don’t miss: Make time for one of the hotel’s curated experiences, such as a visit to Catania’s bustling fish market with chef Celano followed by a cooking class.

Who should go: Urbanites, architecture buffs, and food lovers.

For island hoppers: Principe di Salina

The pool scene at Principe di Salina.

It’s all barefoot chic at Principe di Salina in the heart of Sicily’s Aeolian Islands . White curtains billow along the edge of the open-air living spaces filled with art and objects collected from the owner’s extensive travels. A heated infinity pool looks out over the sea, with views of the Panarea and Stromboli on the horizon. And the hospitality perfectly balances top-notch service with familiar intimacy—when I visit, I feel as if I am staying at the villa of a favorite aunt and uncle. It’s the sort of place where sometimes I don't leave the hotel except to head out on a boat ride.

Room scene: Each of the 12 sun-drenched double rooms—all awash in white—features a small private terrace overlooking the Aeolian Sea, maiolica tiles, locally-made furnishings, and blackout curtains. Two top-floor suites are recent additions, each with lounge areas and large private terraces that are perfect for morning coffee or a sunset cocktail.

Restaurant report: If you’re hungry, the hotel has you well covered: breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, and dinner. This is a family-run property, and at dinnertime, la mamma (Silvana) cooks up a lovingly prepared set menu that combines Sicilian tradition with the highest quality raw ingredients (herbs from the garden, just-caught fish, and hand-crafted pastas). Once a week, they host a special pizza night. Bonus: all the breads and pastries are made in-house.

Don’t miss: Stop for a bit of shopping at the small ground-floor boutique where daughter Anita’s exquisite taste shines.

Who should go: Sun seekers, arbiters of style, and people who want to step out of the fray without going completely off the grid.

For nature lovers: Masseria Susafa

A swimming pool surrounded by lush hillsides and evergreen trees.

Spread out over 1,500 acres in the heart of the Madonie mountains, Susafa offers a breath of fresh air. This stunning fifth-generation farmhouse retreat was first constructed in the early 1700s and a stay here is filled with immersive experiences that will help connect you with the land. In the orchards, you can pick cherries in the morning and then learn to make a cherry crostada (a shortcrust pastry filled with fresh cherries and homemade cherry jam) in the afternoon. Participate in the grain harvest to collect stalks of heirloom Sicilian wheat, which is milled to make the hotel’s bread. Collect olives for their house-label oil. Hike to a picnic under shade trees (part of the family’s dedication to reforestation of the surrounding hillsides). During my last visit, I alternated laps in the pool with laps around the adjacent organic garden, where head gardener Calogero gladly identified the produce and aromatics grown on-site.

Room scene: You won’t find any bold colors in the property’s 18 rooms (which includes eight suites). The immersion into nature and focus on limited environmental impact extends into the guestrooms. The light-filled chambers utilize all natural materials, open directly onto gardens, and rely on renewable energy.

Restaurant report: The restaurant, located in the Masseria’s old granary, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and also hosts daily hands-on cooking classes, from pasta to cannoli.

Don’t miss: Stargazing. There’s zero light pollution in the area and Susafa has constructed small platforms in the fields where you can lie down and have an incredible view of the night sky with the sensation of floating in space.

Who should go: Sustainability disciples, families with kids over age 12, and anyone who prefers a nature walk over a beach chair.

For budget-minded travelers: Maharìa

A archway looking into a courtyard.

When I find myself in Sicily’s southwestern corner, I always stop at Maharìa , a boutique hotel in Menfi tucked inside Palazzo Planeta (from the second half of the 18th century). This property delivers a welcome taste of style without sacrificing budget. On my first visit, I couldn’t stop taking photos of the mammoth 100-year-old bougainvillea vine that winds its way from the interior courtyard on the ground floor to a blooming rooftop canopy.

Room scene: The four basic rooms, all located off the upstairs terrace, provide little in the way of luxury, but they’re an incredible deal. There may not be many bells and whistles, but the palazzo is stunning and it’s located in an area surrounded by hotels hitting the $600+ nightly range. It makes for a great place to lay your head after a day of hiking or biking.

Restaurant report: An airy café anchors the back courtyard where baristas pull coffee, and fresh baked goods are available for breakfast and lunch. The well-curated enoteca stocks an impressive selection of more than 200 wines. At dinner, head to the terrace restaurant for local seafood, housemade pastas, and a wine list stacked with boutique producers.

Don’t miss: Take in the expansive art collection on-site and pay a visit to the Maharìa Shop, where you’ll find a well-curated selection of ceramics, clothing, jewelry, and gourmet food products from local artisans.

Who should go: Wallet watchers, culture hounds, and wine enthusiasts.

For wine lovers: Quinto Arco

The terrace of 4 Archi restaurant

On the slopes of Mt. Etna (Sicily’s active volcano), this restored masseria from the 19th century stretches over five acres, surrounded by 30-year-old vineyards and gardens rich with native plants. I am continually wowed by the tranquility of Quinto Arco , which is best experienced from the infinity pool with its views stretching down to the Ionian Sea. This intimate little inn, the passion project of Martina Grasso, is where hospitality meets winemaking.

Room scene: It’s all about elegant simplicity in the five spacious guestrooms, where massive windows open onto small balconies with views of Mt. Etna’s summit or onto the vineyard-covered countryside.

Restaurant report: At breakfast, you’re treated to Sicilian specialties such as granita with brioche, typical cakes from the nearby town of Santa Venerina, and a bounty of fresh fruit and Sicilian citrus. There’s no lunch or dinner service on-site, but the Grasso family also owns 4 Archi , just 10 minutes away, where I always go for my fill of rustic fare (hearty meats, arancini made with local kohlrabi, and pastas with wild fennel pesto).

Don’t miss: Visit the restored palmento—a traditional Etna structure for making wine—where the inn hosts tastings of its eponymous red wine atop parquet floors constructed out of old wine barrels.

Who should go: Oenophiles, nature lovers, and garden fanatics.

sicily luxury trip

sicily luxury trip

Best Places to Stay in Sicily

S icily is the most enchanting and creatively inspiring island in the world. It offers a rich blend of culture, history, beautiful beaches, and exceptional gastronomy. From luxury hotels to charming B&Bs , there are accommodations to suit every budget and preference in Sicily. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Sicily , from Taormina in the north to Trapani in the west and Catania in the east to Palermo in the northwest.

Taormina – Where to Stay for Luxury & Beautiful Surroundings

Cefalù – best area to stay for families, catania – exciting city with beach close to etna, palermo – stay in sicily’s vibrant capital, syracuse – stay in a city with many historical attractions, agrigento – best place to stay for history enthusiasts, ragusa – a beautiful baroque city on a clifftop, trapani – historical charm, top beaches & many things to do nearby, marina di ragusa – a popular beach resort on the southern coast, san vito lo capo – paradise-like beach resort at the tip of sicily, key takeaways: best places to stay in sicily.

  • Choose from a wide range of accommodations in Sicily, including luxury hotels and charming B&Bs.
  • Explore different regions of Sicily, such as Taormina, Cefalù, Catania, Palermo, Syracuse, Agrigento, Ragusa, Trapani, Marina di Ragusa, and San Vito Lo Capo.
  • Consider your preferences and interests, whether you’re interested in luxury, family-friendly options, historical attractions, or beaches.
  • Sicily offers a diverse and unforgettable experience, with each destination offering its own unique charm and attractions.
  • Plan your stay in Sicily based on the features and attractions that appeal to you the most.

Taormina is a renowned destination in Sicily that offers a perfect combination of luxury accommodations and stunning natural beauty. Located on the eastern coast of the island, Taormina provides breathtaking views of the shimmering Ionian Sea and the majestic Mount Etna.

When visiting Taormina, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a picturesque setting that serves as a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Sicily . This charming town is home to a rich history, exquisite architecture, and an array of cultural attractions.

A key highlight of Taormina is its ancient Greek theater , which offers a unique blend of history and scenic beauty. The theater attracts visitors from around the world and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

For nature lovers, the beautiful Isola Bella , a small island nature reserve, is a must-visit. Its crystal-clear waters and secluded pebble beaches make it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

“Taormina offers a harmonious blend of luxury accommodations and breathtaking surroundings, making it a top destination for those seeking a memorable Sicilian experience.”

As you stroll through the streets of Taormina, you’ll discover an abundance of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The narrow streets and charming alleyways provide a delightful atmosphere for leisurely walks and exploration.

When it comes to accommodations, Taormina offers a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s taste. From opulent five-star hotels offering exceptional amenities and world-class service to boutique establishments with unique character, the town ensures a luxurious and memorable stay.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway , a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Taormina’s luxury accommodations and beautiful surroundings create an idyllic setting for an unforgettable stay in Sicily.

Overall, Taormina stands out as a top choice for travelers who desire the perfect blend of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. With its breathtaking views, historical sites, beautiful beaches, and an array of accommodations, Taormina promises a stay that is both indulgent and enchanting.

Cefalù is a perfect destination for families, offering a combination of history, beautiful beaches, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

The town of Cefalù is known for its impressive cathedral and charming streets filled with shops and restaurants. The Cathedral of Cefalù , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is a must-visit attraction, showcasing exquisite Norman architecture and stunning mosaics. Families can explore the narrow streets of the historic center, browse local boutiques, and indulge in delicious Sicilian cuisine at traditional trattorias.

When it comes to beaches, Cefalù does not disappoint. The main beach, Lungomare, boasts golden sand and clear, turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for families. The shallow waters make it safe for children to swim, play, and build sandcastles. Along the picturesque coastline, there are also smaller beaches and charming coves to explore, providing variety for family beach outings.

“Cefalù offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and fun that families will truly enjoy. From exploring the town’s historic landmarks to spending quality time at the beautiful beaches, Cefalù has something for everyone.”

No matter where families choose to stay in Cefalù, they can expect a welcoming and family-friendly environment that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all members.

Exploring Cefalù with Kids

Cefalù offers plenty of activities and attractions for families to enjoy together. Here are some highlights:

  • Discover the Cathedral of Cefalù: Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Cefalù and admire its impressive architecture and intricate mosaics. Kids will be awe-inspired by the grandeur of this historic landmark.
  • Explore the Medieval Washhouses: Take a stroll through the medieval washhouses, known as lavatoio, where families can learn about the city’s ancient water system and take unique photos.
  • Visit the Osterio Magno: Step back in time at the Osterio Magno, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Cefalù’s past. Kids can explore the ruins and learn about the town’s fascinating history.
  • Enjoy Water Activities: Take advantage of Cefalù’s stunning coastline by engaging in water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. There are various water sports centers that offer equipment rental and guided tours.

With its rich history, stunning beaches, and family-friendly accommodations, Cefalù is the perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories in Sicily.

Catania, located on the east coast of Sicily, is a vibrant city that offers a dynamic blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, stunning landmarks, and proximity to the majestic Mount Etna, Catania is an exciting destination for visitors from around the world.

One of the iconic attractions in Catania is the Piazza del Duomo , a charming square adorned with historic buildings and the stunning Cathedral of Sant’Agata . The cathedral’s intricate architecture and the grandeur of its interior are sure to captivate any visitor. The piazza itself is a lively hub, bustling with cafes, shops, and street performers , creating a vibrant atmosphere.

“Catania offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a fascinating city to explore.”

In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Catania is also famous for its beautiful beaches. Visitors can relax and soak up the sun on the golden sands of Playa di Catania or explore the volcanic black sand beaches of San Giovanni Li Cuti . With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque coastal views, Catania’s beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.

When it comes to accommodations, Catania offers a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. From luxurious hotels with stunning views of the city and sea to affordable guesthouses that provide a comfortable stay, there are plenty of choices available for all budgets. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of the city or near the beach, Catania has the perfect place for you to unwind and recharge.

Exploring Mount Etna

No visit to Catania would be complete without a trip to Mount Etna , one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Standing at over 3,300 meters tall, this majestic volcano offers breathtaking views and incredible hiking opportunities. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the mountain’s lava fields, craters, and volcanic caves, gaining a deeper understanding of its geological significance and natural beauty.

For those looking to take their Mount Etna experience to new heights, helicopter tours provide a unique perspective and allow for panoramic views of the volcano and its surroundings. This thrilling experience is perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts who want to see the magnificence of Mount Etna from the sky.

“Catania’s proximity to Mount Etna makes it a perfect base for exploring this natural wonder and experiencing its awe-inspiring beauty.”

With its rich culture, historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and the majestic Mount Etna, Catania offers a vibrant and unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you’re seeking a city adventure, a beach getaway, or an exploration of natural wonders, Catania has it all. Plan your stay in Catania and immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of this captivating city.

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. With its impressive architecture, lively markets, and delicious street food, Palermo is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich Sicilian experience.

During your stay in Palermo, you can explore historical landmarks such as the breathtaking Palermo Cathedral and the magnificent Palazzo dei Normanni . These architectural marvels showcase the city’s storied past and provide a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage.

I was in awe of the intricate details and grandeur of the Palermo Cathedral. It truly is a masterpiece of Sicilian architecture.

Palermo is also renowned for its bustling markets, where you can meander through stalls filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs. The vibrant atmosphere of these markets offers a glimpse into the daily life of Palermo’s residents and allows you to engage with the local culture.

After a day of sightseeing and exploring, you can indulge in Palermo’s famous street food. From arancini, a Sicilian specialty of fried rice balls filled with meat or cheese, to panelle, a chickpea fritter , the city’s culinary scene is a true delight for food lovers.

Trying the street food in Palermo was a highlight of my trip. The flavors were exceptional, and the aromas filled the streets with mouthwatering scents.

Palermo is also home to some of the best beaches in Sicily. One of the most popular is Mondello Beach , located just a short distance from the city center. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sands , it offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

When it comes to accommodations, Palermo offers a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From luxury hotels in the heart of the city to charming bed and breakfasts near the beach, there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring the city’s historical sites, indulging in its culinary delights, or basking in the sun on its pristine beaches, Palermo is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories of your visit to Sicily.

Recommended Accommodations in Palermo:

Syracuse is a coastal city in Sicily with a rich history and an abundance of historical attractions . It offers visitors a unique blend of ancient ruins, picturesque views, and culinary delights.

The star attraction of Syracuse is its well-preserved ancient Greek theater , which dates back to the 5th century BC. This magnificent amphitheater once hosted tragic plays by renowned Greek playwrights and continues to captivate audiences with its grandeur. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of this impressive structure and imagine the performances that once graced its stage.

Another must-visit site in Syracuse is the beautiful island of Ortigia. This historic island is filled with stunning architecture, charming streets, and picturesque squares . Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, with ancient buildings surrounding you at every turn. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Duomo di Siracusa , a magnificent cathedral that showcases a mix of architectural styles and houses beautiful works of art.

I fell in love with the charm of Syracuse and its incredible historical attractions. Exploring the ancient Greek theater and strolling through the streets of Ortigia was like stepping back in time. And the local cuisine…simply divine! Syracuse truly has it all – history, beauty, and amazing food.

When it comes to accommodations, Syracuse offers a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. For those who want to experience the charm of Ortigia, boutique hotels in the heart of the island provide a perfect base for exploring the city’s historical sites. Alternatively, there are guesthouses with views of the sea for those seeking a tranquil coastal retreat.

Syracuse Accommodations

Syracuse offers a perfect blend of history, beauty, and culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring the ancient Greek theater, wandering the streets of Ortigia, or indulging in delicious Sicilian cuisine, Syracuse is sure to leave a lasting impression on your Sicilian adventure.

When it comes to immersing yourself in Sicily’s rich historical heritage, Agrigento is the perfect destination. Located on the southern coast of the island , this city is renowned for its incredible archaeological site – the Valley of the Temples . As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Valley of the Temples showcases a collection of well-preserved ancient Greek temples, including the iconic Temple of Concordia.

Visitors to Agrigento have the opportunity to wander through this impressive archaeological park, marveling at the grandeur of these ancient structures. The Temple of Concordia, in particular, is a sight to behold, with its majestic columns and intricate carvings. It’s a true testament to the magnificent architecture of the past.

But Agrigento is not just about ancient ruins. The city itself has a charming city center that’s worth exploring. T ake a stroll through the narrow streets lined with vibrant buildings and discover local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Sample the flavors of Sicily and indulge in regional dishes that will delight your taste buds.

When it comes to accommodations, Agrigento offers a range of options to suit all preferences. From centrally located hotels that provide easy access to the Valley of the Temples to countryside retreats that offer tranquility and stunning views, there’s something for every history enthusiast.

If you’re a history lover looking to immerse yourself in Sicily’s past, Agrigento is the ideal place to stay. Explore the ancient temples, soak up the rich history, and indulge in the charm of this beautiful city.

Ragusa is a stunning baroque city perched on a clifftop in Sicily . This picturesque city is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors to Ragusa will be captivated by its unique blend of medieval and baroque architecture, which earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site .

One of the highlights of Ragusa is the enchanting old town of Ragusa Ibla . This area is famous for its stunning architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming squares. Walking through the streets of Ragusa Ibla feels like stepping back in time , with every corner revealing hidden gems, such as the ornate Church of San Giorgio and the splendid Palazzo Arezzo di Trifiletti .

Ragusa offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. In the heart of the city, you’ll find boutique hotels that offer a blend of modern comfort and traditional Sicilian charm. These hotels often feature stylish rooms, delightful courtyards, and panoramic rooftop terraces where you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the city.

If you prefer a more authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional guesthouse in the surrounding countryside. These guesthouses offer cozy rooms, warm hospitality, and stunning views of the rolling hills and valleys of Ragusa.

Whether you choose to stay in the heart of the city or in the tranquil countryside, Ragusa accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring this beautiful baroque city and its surrounding treasures.

Trapani is a charming port city in Sicily that offers a perfect blend of historical charm, beautiful beaches, and proximity to other popular attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, beach lover, or someone seeking diverse activities, Trapani has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of Trapani is its historic city center, filled with narrow streets, ancient buildings, and picturesque squares. The city’s rich history is evident in its architectural heritage, including the stunning Basilica-Sanctuary of Maria Santissima Annunziata , which dates back to the 14th century . Walking through the historical streets of Trapani feels like stepping back in time, with each corner unveiling hidden gems and stories from the past.

Trapani is also known for its top-tier beaches, where visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. One such beach is Spiaggia di San Giuliano , known for its soft golden sand and calm waves. It’s the perfect spot to relax, swim, and take in the breathtaking views of the coastline.

For nature lovers, the nearby salt pans of Trapani are a must-visit . With their vibrant shades of pink and white, the salt pans provide a unique backdrop for photography enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. The salt harvesting process, which has been practiced in Trapani for centuries, offers a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and tradition.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable island experience, a boat trip to the Egadi Islands is highly recommended. These pristine islands, consisting of Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo, boast stunning beaches, breathtaking cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling or simply enjoying a day in paradise.

Trapani also serves as an excellent base for exploring other destinations in western Sicily. Just a short distance away, you’ll find the ancient temple of Segesta , a remarkable archaeological site with a stunningly preserved Doric temple . Another nearby gem is the town of Erice , perched on top of a mountain with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

When it comes to accommodations, Trapani offers a range of options to suit any traveler’s preferences. From waterfront hotels offering picturesque views of the harbor to boutique guesthouses nestled in the historic center, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Trapani.

Trapani Accommodations Comparison

Whether you’re exploring the quaint streets of the historic city center, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, or embarking on exciting day trips to nearby attractions, Trapani offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. It’s a destination that will leave you with lasting memories while providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Marina di Ragusa is a popular beach resort located on the southern coast of Sicily. With its stunning golden beaches, lively nightlife, and charming town center , it’s no wonder that Marina di Ragusa is a beloved destination for beach lovers.

When visiting Marina di Ragusa, you’ll have the opportunity to soak up the sun and indulge in various water activities on its beautiful beaches . Whether you’re looking to relax on the soft sand or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, Marina di Ragusa offers the perfect setting for a beach getaway.

After a day of sun and sea, be sure to explore the historic town of Ragusa. With its Baroque architecture and picturesque streets , Ragusa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will transport you back in time. Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s narrow alleys, admire the stunning buildings, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area.

And when it comes to dining, Marina di Ragusa won’t disappoint. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with delicious Ragusan cuisine. From fresh seafood to delectable pasta dishes , the local restaurants in Marina di Ragusa offer a wide range of culinary delights.

As for accommodations, Marina di Ragusa has a variety of options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you prefer luxury beachfront hotels or self-catering apartments , you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Marina di Ragusa. These accommodations ensure that your beach vacation is comfortable, convenient, and unforgettable.

With its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and rich history, Marina di Ragusa is a top choice for those seeking a beach resort experience on the southern coast of Sicily.

San Vito Lo Capo is a popular beach resort located at the tip of a cape in northwest Sicily. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere, it is truly a paradise-like destination. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful sunbathing experience or an adventurous day of swimming and snorkeling, San Vito Lo Capo has it all.

The town of San Vito Lo Capo is also known for its vibrant culinary scene and the annual Cous Cous Fest , a celebration of food and culture. Indulge in delicious Sicilian cuisine and immerse yourself in the flavors of the region.

Quote: “San Vito Lo Capo offers a beach vacation like no other. The combination of breathtaking natural beauty and warm Mediterranean hospitality creates an unforgettable experience for every visitor.” – Local resident

When it comes to accommodations, San Vito Lo Capo offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From beachfront hotels that offer stunning views of the sea to cozy guesthouses with a personal touch, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in San Vito Lo Capo.

Accommodation Options in San Vito Lo Capo

Q: what are the best places to stay in sicily.

A: Sicily offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, in popular destinations such as Taormina, Cefalù, Catania, Palermo, Syracuse, Agrigento, Ragusa, Trapani, Marina di Ragusa, and San Vito Lo Capo.

Q: Where can I find luxury hotels in Sicily?

A: Taormina is known for its luxury accommodations with stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Palermo also offers luxury hotels in the city center and near the beach.

Q: Which area in Sicily is best for families?

A: Cefalù is a perfect destination for families, with its combination of history, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere. There are family-friendly hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts available.

Q: Where can I find affordable stays in Sicily?

A: Catania offers a range of accommodation options, including affordable guesthouses. There are also budget-friendly hotels available in other destinations such as Palermo and Trapani.

Q: Where can I find boutique hotels in Sicily?

A: Syracuse has boutique hotels in the heart of Ortigia, and Ragusa offers boutique hotels in the city center. Taormina is also known for its boutique establishments.

Q: Are there vacation rentals available in Sicily?

A: Yes, there are vacation rentals available in various destinations in Sicily, including Taormina, Cefalù, Palermo, Syracuse, and Ragusa.

Q: Are there bed and breakfasts in Sicily?

A: Yes, there are bed and breakfast options available in Sicily. Taormina, Palermo, and Ragusa are popular destinations for bed and breakfast accommodations.

Q: What are some top-rated places to stay in Sicily?

A: Some top-rated places to stay in Sicily include Taormina, Cefalù, Catania, Palermo, Syracuse, Agrigento, Ragusa, Trapani, Marina di Ragusa, and San Vito Lo Capo.

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Sicily is the most enchanting and creatively inspiring island in the world. It offers a rich blend of culture, history, beautiful beaches, and exceptional gastronomy. From luxury hotels to charming …

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  25. Best Places to Stay in Sicily

    A: Some top-rated places to stay in Sicily include Taormina, Cefalù, Catania, Palermo, Syracuse, Agrigento, Ragusa, Trapani, Marina di Ragusa, and San Vito Lo Capo. Sicily is the most enchanting ...