Tour description
Ultimate Sicily: Baroque, Volcanoes, Wine & Islands
Discover Sicily through its radiant coastlines, ancient civilizations, volcanic landscapes and extraordinary culinary traditions. This 14-day private journey leads you from Catania’s lively streets to the tranquil Aeolian Islands, from the slopes of Mount Etna to the baroque towns of the southeast, and from the Greek temples of Agrigento to the golden beaches of Cefalù and Palermo’s rich cultural tapestry. Designed as an immersive, slow-travel exploration of the island, this itinerary combines boutique hotels, expert guides, artisan tastings and remarkable natural beauty — revealing a Sicily of depth, warmth, authenticity and unforgettable charm.
DAY 1 ARRIVAL CATANIA
Catania: Flavors, Culture & First Impressions
Upon arrival at Catania Airport, our charming local chauffeur will greet you and transfer you to your elegant boutique hotel located in the city’s historic heart. After settling in, meet our licensed local guide for an engaging afternoon exploration of Catania’s vibrant streets and baroque charm. Stroll past ornate piazzas, medieval lanes and the dramatic façade of Castello Ursino, continuing toward Piazza Duomo, the Fountain of the Elephant and the atmospheric Via Crociferi.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy an immersive street-food experience featuring Catania’s most iconic specialties: arancini, cipollina, spicy anchovies, fresh local fish, ricotta pastries, granita & brioche, all paired with regional wine or refreshing fruit “seltz.” Throughout the walk, your guide will share stories of Catania’s layered history, shaped by ancient civilizations, earthquakes, eruptions and its enduring Sicilian spirit.
Your evening is free, with curated recommendations provided in your Personal Travel Website.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private airport transfer. Guided cultural & tasting tour. Boutique 4* accommodation in central Catania.
DAY 2 SALINA
Island Serenity & Sicilian Charm
This morning your chauffeur will take you to Milazzo, where you board a hydrofoil to Salina, the greenest of the Aeolian Islands. The crossing offers views of volcanic silhouettes rising from the sea, and upon arrival, a local driver will escort you to your countryside boutique hotel surrounded by citrus groves and Mediterranean gardens.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy a private tasting at a small local winery overlooking the sea. Sample Malvasia delle Lipari, Corinto Nero, and other Aeolian varietals while learning about the unique volcanic terroir that defines these expressive wines. Afterward, you may explore the picturesque village of Malfa, relax at your hotel or enjoy a seaside sunset stroll.
Tour in a Nutshell: Chauffeured transfer, hydrofoil crossing to Salina, private tasting, boutique accommodation on Salina.
DAY 3 SALINA & TIPARI
Aeolian Adventure by Sea
Today, celebrate the essence of island life with a full-day private boat tour around Salina and Lipari. Your local skipper will guide you along dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves and ancient volcanic formations. Circle Salina to admire Capo Faro, the cinematic beach of Pollara, and the salt lake of Lingua, then continue to Lipari to view its magnificent Faraglioni sea stacks and the striking Arco degli Angeli. In season, enjoy swimming stops in crystal-clear bays, while a light Sicilian lunch and refreshing beverages is served on board as you soak in panoramic views of the archipelago. This leisurely journey will capture the true essence of island living – sun-drenched, unhurried, and effortlessly elegant.
Upon return, you will have the evening free to relax and dine beneath a glowing island sunset.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private full-day boat tour with lunch. Overnight in Salina.
DAY 4 TAORMINA & ETNA
From Coastal Beauty to Mountain Elegance
After breakfast, take the hydrofoil back to Milazzo, where your private chauffeur awaits. On your way toward Etna, stop in the iconic hilltop town of Taormina, where our wonfetful local guide will await you o visit the magnificent Greek Theatre, with its fascinating history and the sweeping views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.You will then explore Taormina’s elegant pedestrian streets, artisan boutiques and hidden corners. Later in the day, you will continue to your refined rural retreat set among Etna’s vineyards and forests. Combining contemporary design with Sicilian warmth, this serene haven will offer relaxation, fine cuisine, and authentic hospitality. Should you prefer, we can also arrange for accommodations in the heart of Taormina, with many restaurants and terraces just steps away.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private transfers and hydrofoil. Taormina visit. Boutique countryside accommodation near Etna.
DAY 5 MOUNT ETNA
Volcanic Landscapes and Wine Traditions
Today your expert guide will meet you with an off-road vehicle for an unforgettable exploration of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Travel through ancient lava flows, pine forests and lunar-like landscapes shaped by centuries of eruptions. Explore a lava cave (properly equipped with helmets and flashlights) and enjoy scenic viewpoints before continuing to a distinguished Etna winery. Learn about Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Carricante and Etna’s volcanic terroir during a guided tasting, followed by a leisurely multi-course lunch.
Afterward, you will return to your tranquil retreat to relax amid Etna’s tranquil natural beauty.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private full-day Etna 4×4 tour, guided trekking, winery visit, volcanic wine tasting & lunch.
DAY 6 SYRACUSE & ORTIGIA
Timeless Artistry by the Sea
This morning, your chauffeur will transfer you to Syracuse for a full-day private discovery of its Greek, Roman and Baroque heritage. Begin at the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, and the echoing Ear of Dionysius. You will then continue to the island of Ortigia, Syracuse’s elegant heart, where graceful piazzas, ornate palaces, and glittering sea views unfold around every corner. Enjoy a relaxed Sicilian lunch with regional wine before checking into your boutique hotel overlooking the water, ideally located for an evening stroll through Ortigia’s luminous lanes.
Tour in a Nutshell: Chauffeured transfer, private guided tour of Syracuse and Ortigia, lunch with wine, boutique accommodation.
DAY 7 RAGUSA & NOTO
Baroque Jewels of Sicily
Today, your guide and driver will accompany you on a full-day private tour of two of Sicily’s most beautiful UNESCO-listed towns. You will begin in Ragusa Ibla, a stunning labyrinth of honey-colored stone, ornate churches, and noble palaces rising from a deep gorge. As you wander its winding streets, you will uncover stories of resilience and artistry born from the great earthquake of 1693. After lunch featuring regional flavors, you will continue to Noto, celebrated for its harmonious golden facades and baroque splendor. Here you will visit its grand Cattedrale di San Nicolò, and stately palaces like Palazzo Ducezio and Palazzo Nicolaci. End with a tasting of traditional almond pastries or granita before returning to Ortigia for an evening at leisure.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private guided tour with chauffeur, entrances, tastings, and lunch with wine.
DAY 8 ORTIGIA
A Day of Leisure and Coastal Discovery
Today, you will enjoy a leisurely day to explore Ortigia at your own rhythm. You may wander through the lively morning market filled with colorful produce, local cheeses, and aromatic herbs, or revisit the charming lanes and sunlit piazzas you discovered earlier. For a touch of adventure, you may embark on a private boat tour around the island to admire sea caves and swim in clear turquoise waters. If you prefer to unwind, you can reserve a lounger at one of Ortigia’s elegant beach clubs offering direct sea access and Mediterranean views. Your travel concierge will be available to arrange any desired experiences, from dining reservations to seaside transfers. The evening will be yours to savor Ortigia’s serene coastal beauty.
Tour in a Nutshell: Leisure day in Ortigia with personalized recommendations. Overnight Ortigia.
DAY 9 VILLA ROMANA DEL CASALE & AGRIGENTO
Roman Elegance and Timeless Ruins
This morning, your private chauffeur will take you inland to the extraordinary Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its 4th-century mosaics. Your expert guide will bring the villa’s intricate artworks and Roman heritage to life as you walk through its lavish halls depicting mythological scenes and daily life. You will then continue to a nearby medieval town of Piazza Armerina for lunch and a leisurely stroll through its medieval streets before traveling onward to Agrigento. Here, you will check into a charming boutique hotel near the Valley of the Temples, where illuminated ruins create a mesmerizing backdrop at night. The evening will offer time to relax and dine in tranquil surroundings.
Tour in a Nutshell: Chauffeured transfers, private guided tour of Villa Romana del Casale, boutique accommodation near Agrigento.
DAY 10 AGRIGENTO & CEFULU
Ancient Glory Meets Coastal Grace
In the morning, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily’s most iconic archaeological sites. You will walk among monumental Greek temples dedicated to Hera, Concordia, Heracles and Zeus, learning about the ancient city of Akragas and its golden age. After the visit, your chauffeur will drive you across the island to the northern coast and the charming coastal town of Cefalu framed by golden beaches and its Norman cathedral. Upon arrival, you will check into an elegant five-star retreat featuring sea-view terraces, lush gardens, and private access to pristine coves. The afternoon will invite rest by the water, followed by a sunset stroll through Cefalù’s old town, where history and coastal beauty meet effortlessly.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private guided tour of the Valley of the Temples, chauffeured transfer to Cefalù, seaside accommodation.
DAY 11 CEFALU
A Seaside Haven of Relaxation
Today is devoted to the art of dolce far niente. Enjoy your hotel’s terraced gardens, inviting pool and crystal-clear coves. For those who prefer exploration, the medieval old town of Cefalu awaits with its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, artisan boutiques, and magnificent Norman cathedral. Optional experiences include a private coastal cruise, rejuvenating spa treatments or a guided tour.
Tour in a Nutshell: Leisure day in Cefalù. Overnight in 5* seaside retreat.
DAY 12 PALERMO
Baroque Splendor & Market Life
After breakfast, your private chauffeur will drive you west to Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant and multifaceted capital. Upon arrival, you will check into your boutique hotel housed in an elegant historic building within the city’s old quarter. Our charismatic local guide will await for a private tour through the city’s rich tapestry of Arab-Norman architecture, ornate baroque palaces and lively marketd like Ballarò. Taste authentic street foods such as panelle, Palermo-style arancine, warm ricotta pastries and, of course, cannoli or gelato. Your guide will offer personalized advice for further enjoying Palermo’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene this evening.
Tour in a Nutshell: Chauffeured transfer to Palermo, private guided tour with tastings, boutique accommodation.
DAY 13 PALERMO
A Sicilian Cooking Experience
This morning, you will join a passionate local chef for an engaging hands-on cooking class that will immerse you in Sicily’s gastronomic traditions. Together, you will prepare a menu inspired by local ingredients and family recipes – perhaps crafting golden arancini, fresh handmade pasta, and a traditional dessert featuring sweet ricotta and aromatic citrus. Throughout the experience, your host will share the stories and heritage behind each dish, revealing how Sicily’s diverse cultures have shaped its cuisine. You will then sit down to savor your creations over a relaxed lunch accompanied by regional wine. This authentic culinary encounter will be a perfect finale to your Sicilian journey.
Tour in a Nutshell: Private cooking class and lunch with wine. Overnight in Palermo.
DAY 14 DEPARTURE PALERMO
Arrivederci, Sicilia
After a final breakfast overlooking the rooftops of Palermo, your private chauffeur will transfer you to the airport for your departing flight. As you journey home, you will carry with you the colors, flavors, and spirit of Sicily—its volcanic landscapes, radiant coastlines, and timeless art of hospitality. Each experience, from the Aeolian Islands to Mount Etna and the baroque towns of the southeast, will remain a vivid memory of beauty, culture, and connection.
Tour In a Nutshell: Private transfer to Palermo Airport.
Tour quotation
Ultimate Sicily: Baroque, Volcanoes, Wine & Islands Tour Details
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