12-Nights Sicily and Its Isles - Explorations – Small Group from $5,999

Day 1 Overnight Flight
You’re on your way to Sicily, an island paradise nestled amongst the deep blue waves of the Mediterranean. Look past the Italy you think you know and see how this coastal farmland balances ancient traditions and modern comforts.

Day 2 Palermo, Italy
Hotel: Hotel Porta Felice
Arrive in Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital city. As travelers’ arrival times will vary, we have not included any sightseeing. Spend the day exploring independently, taking in Palermo’s gritty, unshakable spirit and captivating energy. Late this afternoon, we'll meet for a briefing about the journey ahead. Tonight, come to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner.(D)

Day 3 Palermo
Hotel: Hotel Porta Felice
Begin your adventure tasting your way through Palermo’s lively markets on a walking tour unveiling the city’s historic center and introducing you to traditional Sicilian street food. Palermo’s culinary heritage layers Arab and Norman influences with local produce such as wild fennel, olives, and spices. This afternoon, head to Monreale Cathedral, ascending 92 steps on foot to see its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Then, it’s your choice! Explore the cathedral’s cloisters, taking in their serene atmosphere of the monastic complex -OR- ascend the southern tower’s narrow staircase to the panoramic terraces for a bird’s-eye view over Palermo.(B, L)

Day 4 Palermo - Marsala
Hotel: Hotel Stella d'Italia
Make your way to a family-owned winery deeply nestled in Sicily’s largest wine-producing region. Venture off the beaten path and meet a local winemaker. Learn about the local types of grapes and production techniques, before joining a hands-on cooking class just for your group. Share the meal you prepared for lunch, paired with the farm’s own wines. Late this afternoon, settle into your hotel in coastal Marsala for a 3-night stay. Perhaps you’ll take a sunset walk along the waterfront before heading out for an evening at leisure.(B, L)

Day 5 Marsala
Hotel: Hotel Stella d'Italia
Discover the ancient craft of sea-salt harvesting during a guided visit to the salt pans of the Stagnone Lagoon, once at the confluence of Phoenician, Greek, and Roman civilizations. Hop on a local boat* and take in the views of the lagoon and surrounding, low-laying islands before returning to Marsala for an afternoon at leisure.(B)

Day 6 Marsala
Hotel: Hotel Stella d'Italia
The day is yours to explore Marsala as you please. Perhaps you’ll visit one of the city’s numerous wineries, noted for producing the eponymous fortified wine. Or you may join a full-day optional excursion to Favignana. A short waterjet ride* from Sicily’s mainland, Favignana island is part of the Egadi archipelago. Once famous for its tuna fish production, this small island boasts crystal clear waters and enchanting gardens.(B)

Day 7 Marsala - Agrigento
Hotel: Hotel Foresteria Baglio della Luna
Begin the day with an Impact Moment as you visit an olive oil maker who champions ethical, sustainable farming. Hear his story, and how he resists the pressures the Mafia tries imposing on local farmers. Stroll through the olive groves and pause for a rustic picnic-style lunch before continuing to Agrigento. This afternoon, explore the imposing Greek ruins of the Valley of the Temples, uncover the myths enshrouding the foundation of ancient Akragas, and watch history come alive. Then, settle in for a 1-night stay and dinner at your hotel.(B, L, D)

Day 8 Agrigento - Cefalù Coast
Hotel: Mangia's Pollina Resort
This morning, travel through rolling hills and peaceful farmland to a family-owned farmhouse, where you’ll meet the owners and glimpse daily life on a Sicilian farm. Sit back and tuck into a hearty farm-to-table lunch, made from cherished family recipes. Then, relax aboard your bus as you travel along Sicily’s northern coast, en route to a relaxing 2-night stay. As the sun sets, acquaint yourself with the extensive grounds of your cliffside resort before an evening at leisure.(B, L)

Day 9 Cefalù Coast
Hotel: Mangia's Pollina Resort
Today, set off for the seaside town of Cefalù. Stroll the medieval streets and enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. Perhaps you’ll peek into the city's impressive cathedral showcasing Norman architecture or take in Sicilian medieval art at the Mandralisca Museum. Return to your coastal resort mid-afternoon. You will have time to venture down to the resort’s private beach and dip your feet in the Mediterranean, if you choose.(B)

Day 10 Cefalù Coast - Ferry to Aeolian Islands - Isle of Salina
Hotel: Hotel La Salina Borgo di Mare
Grab your bags** and hop on a ferry in Milazzo. Sail by Vulcano and Lipari on your way to Salina,* a far-flung isle surrounded by vibrant blue waters and dark volcanic rock. Somewhat off the beaten path, Salina is one of the less-traveled Aeolian Islands, preserved as a vacation getaway for Italians. Upon arrival, take in the island’s dramatic landscapes of rocky cliffs as vibrant vineyards pass you by on your way to Pollara, famous for its traditional caper cultivation. Wander through the fields and taste the salted flower buds accompanied by a glass of Malvasia, a locally produced dessert wine. Check into your hotel in the late afternoon and start your 2-night stay.(B)

Day 11 Isle of Salina
Hotel: Hotel La Salina Borgo di Mare
The day is yours to do as you please. Perhaps you’ll venture by ferry to a nearby island, settle into a café by the sea, and soak in local life while sampling their every flavor of granita ice-slush. Or stay local, slow your rhythm and simply bask in the gentle pace of this small island.(B)

Day 12 Isle of Salina - Ferry to Sicily - Taormina
Hotel: Splendid Hotel
Early this morning, ferry* back to mainland Sicilia. Journey along the Ionian Coast to Taormina, a seaside hub of ancient Greek theatres and hilly walkways. Discover its well-preserved Greek theatre in the company of a local guide. Walk in the footsteps of ancient attendees and take in unparalleled views of the Mediterranean Sea. Spend the evening on your own. Perhaps you’ll grab a bite to eat at a sidewalk café or peruse the local boutiques for handcrafted souvenirs.(B)

Day 13 Taormina - Mount Etna - Taormina
Hotel: Splendid Hotel
See Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano. Spend the morning exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks before returning to Taormina for an afternoon at leisure. This evening, toast to your Sicilian sojourn at dinner, surrounded by local musicians.(B, D)

Day 14 Taormina - Tour Ends
Your journey through Sicily comes to a close today. Return home with memories of Italy’s favorite island.(B)