Highlights of Sicily

Day 1  Palermo  
Arrive in Palermo, Sicily’s captivating capital and pick up your car. After settling into your hotel, wander the charming streets and admire the city’s Arab-Norman architecture. Experience the popular markets of Ballaro and Vucciria before dining al fresco in one of the central piazzas such as Piazza Pretoria and Piazza Bellini.

Day 2  Palermo to Marsala  
This morning, drive to the west coast and visit the picturesque salt pans and nature reserve of Il Stagnone en route to your hotel in Marsala. This afternoon, perhaps discover the region’s famed wine with a wine tasting experience before strolling through the pedestrian-friendly historic centre, admiring its baroque architecture and quaint squares.

Day 3  Marsala  
Today, why not embark on a boat trip to the stunning Egadi Island archipelago? Popular for snorkelling, hiking or simply soaking up the natural beauty, enjoy the history and natural wonders of these protected islands.

Day 4  Marsala to Agrigento  
Embark on a scenic drive to Agrigento, perhaps stopping en route at the historic spa town of Sciacca. Once settled into your Agrigento hotel, wander the historic centre where the central Via Atenea branches off to charming alleys lined with bars, restaurants and shops. Stumble upon palaces, imposing churches, and enter the Agrigento Cathedral.

Day 5  Agrigento  
Today, explore the ruins of UNESCO World Heritage listed Valley of the Temples. Visit the Temple of Hercules, Zeus and more before enjoying a peaceful respite in the Kolymbethra Garden located within the site. In the afternoon, relax with a trip to San Leone beach for a sunbathe and refreshing swim.

Day 6  Agrigento to Syracuse  
This morning, drive to Syracuse and settle into your hotel. A city of two hearts, there lies the ancient Greek city of Neapolis on the mainland and the Sicilian side on the island of Ortigia. Begin with a stroll through the maze of narrow streets in Ortigia lined with distinct buildings built in honey-coloured stone. Visit the popular Ortigia markets, the ancient Temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Diana and the Baroque churches and palaces in the Piazza Duomo. After discovering the wonderful sights of Ortigia, head across the bridge back to the mainland to see the famed Neapolis Archaeological Park. This site includes an impressive quarry, the Eurialo castle, a Roman amphitheatre and a huge Greek theatre. The theatre still hosts some classical plays from the end of May to early July, so perhaps find yourself watching a Greek tragedy!

Day 7  Syracuse to Taormina  
Drive to the hilltop town of Taormina, known as the pearl of Sicily for its stunning landscapes and historic grandeur. Wander through the winding streets lined with shops, bars and restaurants, and discover beautifully restored medieval buildings around every corner. This afternoon, explore the Greek-Roman theatre, uniquely offering a magnificent backdrop of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.

Day 8  Taormina  
Today, visit the famed Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe and among the most active in the world. Witness the volcano’s beauty, whether by hiking or taking a cable car, there are plenty of ways to see it for yourself. Afterwards, opt to enjoy a wine tasting tour with more majestic views of Mount Etna. This afternoon, stroll along Corso Umberto, the main pedestrianised street lined with shops and restaurants that lead to buzzing piazzas and historic churches.

Day 9  Taormina  
Discover Taormina’s breathtaking coastline and choose to visit the stunning Isola Bella to swim in the clear waters and sunbathe on the beach. This afternoon, stroll through the serene Villa Comunale (public gardens) for a tranquil escape from which you can enjoy dramatic views over Mount Etna.

Day 10  Taormina to Cefalu  
This morning, drive to Cefalu, your final stop on this Sicilian adventure. Spend today exploring the old town, home to picturesque lanes that sit at the base of La Rocca, an imposing cliff with Greek, Roman and Norman remains on top. With every street leading to the central Piazza del Duomo, it would be impossible to miss the atmospheric main square. Admire the 12th Century cathedral and browse the shops before dining al fresco in the centre, soaking up the ambience.

Day 11  Cefalu  
Today, enjoy a trip to the beach to unwind, perhaps visiting the small and peaceful pebble beach of Kalura or Cefalu Beach for views of the entire waterfront and La Rocca.

Day 12  Cefalu  
This morning, perhaps embark on a scenic hike up to the historic ruins of La Rocca, high in the cliffs above the old town it boasts spectacular panoramic views. Alternatively, why not relax with another day of bliss on the beach and try another of Cefalu’s idyllic beaches?

Day 13  Cefalu  
Enjoy a final morning in Cefalu before driving back to Palermo airport and dropping off your car before your flight home.