Tour Sicily Adventure - 9 Days

Transport

Rail&Fly in 1st class DB to the airport and back (https://www.bahnanreise.de/geltungsbereich)

Meals

Daily breakfast, 2 x lunch and 4 x dinner

Accommodation

8 nights in hotels Accommodation - Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa Day 1 - Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa [consecutive nights] Day 2 - Mahara Hotel Day 3 - Scala dei Turchi Resort Day 4 - Poggio del Sole Hotel Day 5 - Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort Day 6 - Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort [Followed by Overnight] Day 7 - Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort [Followed by Overnight] Day 8

Flights

Scheduled flight with Lufthansa (fare T) to Palermo and back from Catania, subject to availability Price includes scheduled flight from/to Frankfurt

Guide

Guaranteed execution of all dates German-speaking local tour guide

Others

Adventure trip with maximum 12 guests Touring minibus with air conditioning 1 wine tasting Visit to a ceramic workshop Excursion to Etna with view into the crater Anti-mafia tour in Palermo Cooking course Entrance fees 64 m² of rainforest in your name

Not included:

Insurance

No travel insurance included in the price. Please book a travel insurance extra, if necessary, on your own.

Others

Departure airport: DE from 100 € / AT from 200 € / CH from 200 € Seat reservation on medium-haul flight: from 50 €

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Welcome To Bella Sicilia!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Welcome To Bella Sicilia!

With a lot of anticipation in your luggage you board the plane to Palermo. As soon as you have taken your suitcases from the baggage carousel, you will drive to your accommodation in the heart of Palermo. The remaining time of the day is at your disposal.

Accommodation
Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa
The Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa is an impressive historic hotel in the heart of Palermo. With its elegant facade and central location, it offers a perfect base from which to explore Palermo’s charms. The rooms are quiet and comfortably furnished. You can relax in the lovely courtyards or take time out in the hotel’s spa and wellness area. The hotel’s restaurant serves exquisite Sicilian cuisine and invites you to enjoy the culinary delights of the region.

Notes
The driving distance is approximately 35 kilometers. Depending on the traffic situation, the driving time is about 50 minutes.
Day 2 Day 2: Monreale And Palermo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Monreale And Palermo

After breakfast, start the day with an exploration of the nearby town of Monreale. Its stunning cathedral is one of the most important examples of Norman-Arab architecture. You’ll find the grandeur of the impressive Santa Maria Nuova Cathedral inside, where glowing gold Byzantine mosaics tell biblical stories from the Old and New Testaments. You’ll stroll through the peaceful cloisters of what was once a Benedictine monastery, the only intact remnant that bears witness to a bygone era. The Arabic influences are reminiscent of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. While exploring the city of Palermo in the afternoon, a sweet surprise awaits you at the church of Santa Caterina: Cannoli Siciliani! The recipe for these sacred dough rolls comes from the former cloistered nuns. Afterwards you will learn more about the dark history of the Italian Mafia. The origins of the Mafia in Sicily are difficult to date, as its existence is rooted in a culture of secrecy and silence. In Sicily, it is known as "Cosa Nostra" and has not only influenced the development of Sicilian society, but has also gained a worldwide reputation. It is a fascinating and educational experience to learn more about the Mafia and its impact on Palermo. Civil society is trying to limit the power of the mafia by raising awareness and thereby fighting it. With this type of engagement, residents hope for a more just and safe society.

Meals
Breakfast is included.

Accommodation
Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa [Consecutive nights]
The Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa is your accommodation today as well.

Notes
The driving distance is about 20 kilometers. Travel time is about 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Day 3 Day 3: The West Coast
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: The West Coast

After your morning espresso, head west to visit the fascinating town of Erice. Erice is located on a hill and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. As you stroll through the narrow streets and admire the medieval buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The ancient walls and towers tell stories of brave warriors and valiant defenders. The castle of Erice, majestically overlooking the city, has been a witness to numerous battles and eras of change. Next, a culinary delight awaits you: the Genovesi! These are delicious Sicilian pastries filled with ricotta cheese and a sweet cream. Be sure to have a sip of Marsala wine with them and let your taste buds dance with joy! Then it’s off to Trapani, where you’ll have free time. Trapani is known for its freshly caught seafood and its classic, a couscous specialty with fresh fish. Don’t miss the opportunity to try this dish. After enjoying the beauty of Trapani, it’s time for the city of Marsala. The relaxed atmosphere in Marsala, the narrow streets and the baroque buildings give a very special charm. And if you haven’t had enough, enjoy the sunset in the setting of Mazara del Vallo.

Meals
Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Accommodation
Mahara Hotel
Located right on the beach in Mazara del Vallo, the Mahara Hotel, which was an old wine production facility owned by the English Hopps family in the 18th century, is now your lodging. The facility has an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a gym, and a spa area. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and stylishly decorated. The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere. You can either dine indoors or sit on the terrace and enjoy the sea view while indulging in delicious flavors.

Notes
The driving distance is about 180 kilometers. The driving time is about 3 ½ hours.
Day 4 Day 4: Along The Southwest Coast
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Along The Southwest Coast

In the morning you will visit the center of Mazara del Vallo. In the Kasbah there is a special atmosphere as soon as you enter its gates. The Kasbah, built in the 9th century by the Arabs, is a labyrinth of small alleys. Afterwards, you will continue to Sciacca, where you will visit a local ceramics workshop. After watching the artists at work, they encourage you to try it out for yourself. Now grab your sunglasses as you visit the Scala dei Turchi, a unique natural rock formation on the coast of Realmonte. It consists of white limestone rocks that gently slope into the turquoise sea. The rocks look like a staircase created by nature.

Meals
Breakfast and dinner are included.

Accommodation
Scala dei Turchi Resort
Located on one of the most impressive stretches of coastline in Sicily, Scala dei Turchi Resort will enchant you with its Mediterranean style. The property is about 300 meters from the Scala dei Turchi, the "Staircase of the Turks". The brilliant white monumental rock of marl resembles bizarre steps. The elegant rooms are decorated in light shades and have classic blue shutters. They are arranged around the spacious outdoor pool, the centerpiece of the resort. In the on-site restaurant, your palate will be pampered with Sicilian and international delicacies. In the lounge bar you can enjoy a refreshing drink while looking out over the blue sea and the white cliffs.

Notes
The driving distance is about 100 kilometers. The driving time is about 1 ½ hours.
Day 5 Day 5: The Valley Of The Temples
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: The Valley Of The Temples

After breakfast you will visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. The Valley of the Temples covers an area of about 1,300 hectares and includes eight well-preserved temples built between the 5th and 6th centuries BC. Each temple was dedicated to a particular deity and played an important role in the religious and cultural life of the ancient Greek community of Akragas, now Agrigento. The buildings from the Roman and Greek periods are now protected by UNESCO. As you stroll along the ancient paths in front of the monumental temples of Hera, Concordia, Heracles and Zeus, the warm Sicilian sun caresses your skin. The gentle breeze carries the scent of lemon trees and Mediterranean flowers to you, and the melody of birds accompanies your steps. The ruins of the temples open to you a world of fantasy, where you can imagine how life once flourished in this ancient civilization. You will find the cultural influences not only in the architectural features, but also in the cuisine. A cooking class will reveal these culinary secrets to you. Enjoy an interactive feast and discover the diverse flavors and traditional dishes of the region. Before reaching your hotel, you will visit the city of Ragusa. The old town looks like it’s straight out of a medieval fairy tale. The city is famous for its baroque buildings, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included today.

Accommodation
Poggio del Sole Hotel
The Poggio del Sole Hotel in Ragusa stands out for its idyllic location, surrounded by picturesque hills and lush nature. The sprawling grounds boast elegant gardens, a charming pool area, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The rooms are tastefully decorated and offer a retreat of peace and relaxation. The stylish spaces are equipped with modern amenities and impress with their combination of comfort and authenticity. The in-house restaurant treats you to a selection of exquisite Sicilian dishes prepared from fresh, local ingredients.

Notes
The driving distance is approximately 150 kilometers. The driving time is about 2 ½ hours.
Day 6 Day 6: The Southeast Coast
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: The Southeast Coast

In the morning you will drive towards Modica and arrive at the Azienda Agricola Magazzè farm. A few years ago, the siblings Carmelo and Giuseppe Dinatale rebuilt the family farm and switched from cattle to buffalo breeding. You will get the first impressions during a tour of the farm. Afterwards you can watch the preparation of buffalo mozzarella and taste the excellent mozzarella and other products. In Modica, besides visiting the town, you will have the opportunity to visit an old chocolate factory that produces its products according to the Aztec method. We will continue to Noto. This charming baroque town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, delights visitors with its splendid architecture, narrow streets and authentic Sicilian flair. When you arrive at your accommodation near Catania, end the day with a good Sicilian wine.

Meals
Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Accommodation
Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort
The Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort is located in the middle of the family-run farm "Terralcantara" and is about 20 km from Taormina. The Alcantara Park with its lovely hills and valleys, with olive groves and citrus trees as well as vineyards forms the fantastic backdrop. The resort is an ideal starting point for excursions to the nearby spectacular Alcantara Gorge and a place where you can find peace and enjoy nature. The swimming pool invites you to refresh yourself in the midst of these magnificent surroundings. You will stay in the historic Baglio, a typical Sicilian farmhouse. The simple, spacious rooms are furnished in a rustic style and offer beautiful views. In the restaurant La Macina you will be spoiled with Sicilian specialties and excellent wines.

Notes
The driving distance is about 200 kilometers. The driving time is about 3 hours.
Day 7 Day 7: In The Footsteps Of The Baroque And Antiquity
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: In The Footsteps Of The Baroque And Antiquity

Once you’ve had your morning coffee, this day can start with a visit to one of the largest archaeological parks in Europe. At the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, you’ll encounter impressive remains from different eras, starting with ancient Greece and ending with the Roman period. An absolute highlight is the ancient Greek theater, known for its exceptional acoustics and majestic architecture. Imagine how ancient dramas and comedies were once performed here while enjoying the breathtaking view of the sea. As you continue to wander through the park, you will come across the Ear of Dionysius, a fascinating cave famous for its impressive acoustics. According to legend, the tyrant Dionysios could hear every whispered word here, which gave him a significant advantage in monitoring his subjects. Afterwards, you’ll head to the heart of Syracuse and start a tour on foot of the island of Ortigia, where the Greek city layout has been well preserved. Here you will find monuments from numerous periods of world history and follow in the footsteps of the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Normans. Syracuse was the largest and richest city in the Mediterranean at the time of the Greeks. Great importance was given to the city by the geological features such as the direct location on the sea and the steep cliffs, which above all facilitated warfare and trade. In addition to a rich source of fresh water, the coastal shape created two natural harbors. Because the city was located only a few meters from the mainland, it was well protected on the one hand, but on the other hand it was easy to reach. In addition, the lime provided good opportunities for constructing buildings.

Catering
Breakfast is included.

Accommodation
Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort [Followed by overnight]
Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort is your accommodation also today.

Notes
The driving distance is about 230 kilometers. The driving time is about 3 hours.
Day 8 Day 8: Etna And Taormina
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Etna And Taormina

Hopefully you put on sturdy shoes. Weather permitting, our destination today is the volcano Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in Europe. Etna is Europe’s most powerful volcano and with a height of about 3,350 meters it dominates the east coast of Sicily. In 2013, UNESCO included Etna in the list of natural world heritage sites. Via a picturesque road and past idyllic Sicilian villages as well as the most famous wine-growing areas of Sicily, you will go high up. With the cable car you will overcome a few more meters of altitude and finally you will be taken by bus-jeep to the vicinity of the crater rim. A local guide will explain many details about the past of the volcano and its myths. Finally, at an altitude of about 2,500 meters, you will enjoy a magnificent view over the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts. Afterwards, at the foot of the volcano, you can discover how fertile the local soil is thanks to the volcano, as you visit an apiary and take part in a wine tasting with a light meal. In Taormina, take a walk in the center as if you were an Italian on vacation. Enjoy the flair of the city and admire the ancient theater! After all the experiences you will go back to the accommodation, where you can dream about the impressive play of colors of the black lava and the contrast between the wild nature and the sophisticated life.

Meals
Breakfast and lunch are included in the price.

Accommodation
Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort [Followed by overnight]
Agriturismo Il Borgo Resort is your accommodation also today.

Notes
The driving distance is about 100 km. The driving time is about 2 hours.
For the excursion to Mount Etna we recommend weatherproof and warm clothes. The crater rim is located at about 2,500 meters above sea level. Other guests may participate in this excursion. In case of bad weather, the excursion to Etna will have to be cancelled.

Pick-up times for tomorrow will depend on your flight. You will receive the exact information from your tour guide today.
Day 9 Day 9: Return Home
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Return Home

Today it’s Arrivederci Sicilia! With many beautiful memories in your luggage you will be brought to the airport of Catania and fly back home. Afterwards you will continue your journey by train or plane to your home town.

Meals
Breakfast is included.

Notes
The driving distance is about 60 kilometers. The travel time is about 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.

9 days tour

Sicily Adventure - 9 Days

This tour includes:

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Sicily Adventure - 9 Days

Day 1: Welcome To Bella Sicilia!

Day 2: Monreale And Palermo

Day 3: The West Coast

Day 4: Along The Southwest Coast

Day 5: The Valley Of The Temples

Day 6: The Southeast Coast

Day 7: In The Footsteps Of The Baroque And Antiquity

Day 8: Etna And Taormina

Day 9: Return Home

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