Palermo | Marsala | Castelbuono | Modica | Taormino | Etna | Catania

A captivating 9-day Sicilian adventure, staying at luxurious accommodations, and exploring many architectural and natural wonders, all while indulging in the rich culture of this Italian region.

Date

Sep 14 - 22

Year

2024

Group Size

12 - 17

Tour Escort

Day 1 to Day 9

Embark on a captivating 9-day Sicilian adventure, staying at luxurious accommodations, and exploring many architectural and natural wonders, all while indulging in the rich culture of this Italian region. Treat your taste buds to the richness of Sicilian chocolates, dive into the secrets of local cuisine with a hands-on cooking class, and experience the unique thrill of wine tastings aboard a panoramic train journey, where the train station sits right in the heart of the vineyard!

There’s so much more to discover on this unforgettable adventure! Pelletiere warmly invites you to uncork the fun – let the good times pour!

Trip Highlights

  • 3-night stay at the 5-star Grand Hotel et des Palmes.
  • 4-night stay at Neroli Bio Resort.
  • Wine tastings at 7 renowned wineries/vineyards.
  • Half-day guided tour of Palermo’s historical gems.
  • Scenic journey to Marsala Salt Pans.
  • Guided tasting at “Donnafugata” Wine Cellar, built in 1851, a living example of industrial archaeology.
  • Authentic Cannoli stop in Dattilo at one of the most famous coffee bars in Sicily, where you can eat the original “Cannoli”, handmade with fresh ricotta cheese and fruit skins.
  • Visit Santa Anastasia Winery in Castelbuono, a beautiful Abbey from the XII century that has been artfully restored to its former glory.
  • Journey through the picturesque Noto Valley.
  • Chocolate tastings in Modica, famous for its artistic treasures, but also for an ancient tradition of confectionery. Unlike the rest of the world, this chocolate has never become an industrialized product and therefore has preserved an authentic flavor.
  • Visit to Taormina’s Greco-Roman Theatre and Villa Comunale.
  • Take an authentic Sicilian Cooking Class and enjoy your creations.
  • Panoramic train ride to Campore Winery and wine tasting.
  • Summit Etna Volcano and admire lava flow from past eruptions.

What is included in the price?

• Hotels with daily breakfast and taxes.

• Private airport transfers—arrival into Palermo and departure from Catania.

• All other meals, tastings, and experiences as shown.

• Local transportation via comfortable bus.

• Italian tour manager traveling with the group throughout the tour to provide logistics and traveler support.

• Local guides.

• Whisper devices throughout to facilitate guided commentary.

Not included:

• Tips/Gratuities for guides, drivers, and tour manager (guidelines will be provided.  Tips are appreciated but not mandatory in Italy).

• International air.

• Travel/Cancellation Insurance (every traveler must either show proof of insurance or waive coverage).

• Items of personal nature.

• Anything not included in itinerary.

Day 1 – September 14
Travel Day

Embark on your Sicilian adventure as you depart the US for Palermo, Italy.

Day 2 – September 15
Arrival Day – Palermo, Italy

Arrive in Palermo and begin your 3-night stay at the 5-star Grand Hotel et des Palmes. Your evening unfolds with a delightful welcome dinner, introducing you to Sicily’s culinary treasures.

Day 3 – September 16
Palermo

Explore Palermo’s rich history and cultural tapestry with a half-day guided tour. Marvel at the contrasting architectural beauty of the 12th-century Palatine Chapel and the Church of St. John of the Hermits. Indulge in a delightful lunch in Palermo’s city center before a wine experience and tasting at Baglio di Pianetto Tenuta. Capture the stunning view of Palermo from Belvedere before enjoying the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. Conclude the day with dinner on your own in Palermo.

Day 4 – September 17
Marsala – Erice – Segesta

Begin the day with an early breakfast at the hotel before setting off for Marsala, a scenic journey showcasing the mesmerizing saltpans and historic windmills along the road from Trapani. Dive into the world of wine at the renowned “Donnafugata” Wine Cellar, an industrial archaeological gem built in 1851. Experience a guided tasting of four exquisite wines in the charming “Sala delle Botti,” paired with a delectable lunch featuring typical starters, couscous, local cheeses, fresh fruit, dessert, and coffee.

In the afternoon, make a stop at “Dattilo” to indulge in authentic hand-made Cannoli at one of Sicily’s most famous coffee bars. Each Cannolo, filled with fresh ricotta cheese and fruit skins, is a culinary delight weighing almost a pound.

As the day unfolds, savor the evening with dinner of your choice in Palermo. The day is a perfect blend of scenic beauty, wine exploration, and the indulgence of Sicily’s culinary treasures.

Day 5 – September 18
Castelbuono – Catania

Day 5 unfolds with a leisurely breakfast before a delightful journey to Cefalù, a charming seaside town offering free time for relaxation and, if desired, a refreshing dip in the sea. Around 11:00 am, the adventure continues to Castelbuono, a medieval gem nestled in the Madonie Mountains. Explore the beautifully restored Santa Anastasia Winery, originally an abbey from the 12th century, surrounded by lush lands yielding exquisite wines. Indulge in a wine tasting paired with a light lunch.

Following this culinary experience, the journey proceeds to Catania, where a guided panoramic tour unveils the city’s treasures. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your pace. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at a local resort restaurant in Belpasso, where you’ll begin your 4-night stay at the Neroli Bio Resort.

Day 6 – September 19
Modica – Marzamemi

Day 6 promises a journey through the picturesque Noto Valley. Immerse yourself in the allure of the Val di Noto, where the meeting of the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas paints a breathtaking backdrop. Explore Modica, a UNESCO Heritage Site celebrated for its artistic treasures and renowned chocolate. Delve into a unique chocolate tasting, savoring the authentic flavors preserved through centuries.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Barone Sergio winery for a delightful wine tasting. Lunch at your leisure in the charming Marzamemi, a historic fishing village with a timeless ambiance. Indulge in the best seafood suggestions, connecting with the generations of families that built this enchanting place.

The journey proceeds to Avola, where an organic winery awaits to showcase the iconic Nero d’Avola wines. Return to the hotel for some free time before an evening of culinary delights at a local restaurant.

Day 7 – September 20
Taormina

Embark on a captivating day after breakfast as you journey to Taormina. Witness the grandeur of the Greco-Roman Theatre, a monumental masterpiece that stands as one of the world’s most impressive theaters. Continue your exploration with a stroll through the enchanting Villa Comunale, where a rich variety of flowering plants await. Your local guide will unveil the botanical wonders of this public garden.

After the guided tour, relish the free time to explore Taormina’s beauty or unwind on the spectacular central square, offering unparalleled views. Indulge in a lunch of your choice in Taormina before returning to the hotel for an authentic Sicilian Cooking Class. Your teacher will guide you through traditional recipes, and you’ll have the pleasure of savoring the Sicilian feast you’ve prepared.

Day 8 – September 21
Etna

Day 8 unfolds with a departure after breakfast to the mesmerizing Etna area. As you ascend towards the summit of the Etna volcano, traverse charming Sicilian villages like Santa Venerina and Zafferana. The journey leads to the awe-inspiring Silvestri craters (7000 ft.), offering a striking landscape with vast lava flows from past eruptions.

En route, soak in the beauty of Etna’s vineyards and farms overlooking the Catania coast. Experience a unique panoramic train ride to Campore Winery, where the train station is nestled in the heart of the vineyard. Indulge in a delightful wine tasting and a picturesque picnic lunch featuring local products amid the vineyards.

The afternoon invites free time to explore at your leisure before a special farewell dinner at the Neroli Bio Resort.

Day 9 – September 22
Arrivederci!

Day 9 marks the conclusion of your remarkable Sicilian adventure. After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a seamless transfer to Catania airport, bidding farewell to the enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant flavors of this unforgettable journey. Safe travels and arrivederci!