Sicily: 8-Day Excursion Tour With Hotel Accomodation

Sicily, the stunning island in the Mediterranean, beckons travelers with its captivating beauty and rich history. This 8-day excursion tour promises an immersive experience, exploring the island’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic Mount Etna to the ancient Greek temples of Agrigento. Discover the vibrant cities of Palermo and Erice, where medieval charm and modern vibrancy coexist. With comfortable hotel accommodations and optional activities, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to uncover the enchanting secrets of Sicily. What awaits those who embark on this journey? Prepare to be captivated by the island’s allure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8-day Sicily excursion tour starting from Catania Airport, with transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, and guided visits to major historical and cultural sites.

• Highlights include exploring Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, and visiting ancient cities like Syracuse, Agrigento, and Palermo to discover Greek and Roman heritage.

• Opportunity to experience Sicilian cultural activities, such as sampling almond pastries in Erice and tasting renowned Marsala fortified wines.

• Optional excursions available, including a scenic coastal cruise and a Godfather movie tour, to further immerse in the island’s history and culture.

• Tour concludes with hotel check-out and optional group transfer to Catania Airport, providing a convenient end to the 8-day Sicilian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Arrival in Taormina Area

On arrival at Catania Airport, guests have the option of taking a group transfer to their hotel in the Taormina area, where their rooms will be available after 2 PM.

The day is free, with dinner and overnight accommodations provided at the hotel. This allows travelers to rest and get settled after their journey. There are no planned activities, so guests can explore the local area at their own pace or simply relax.

The tour officially begins the next day with a visit to the impressive Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe. This first day sets the stage for an exciting 8-day exploration of Sicily’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and renowned cuisine.

Exploring Mt. Etna

After a restful arrival day, the tour escort leads guests on an exploration of Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe.

Towering over 10,000 feet, Etna’s dramatic landscapes offer a glimpse into Sicily’s volcanic past. Participants will marvel at the black lava flows, jagged rock formations, and steaming fumaroles that dot the mountainside.

The tour provides an up-close encounter with this geological wonder, allowing visitors to appreciate Etna’s raw power and natural beauty.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the volcano’s eruption history and the role it has played in shaping the island’s culture and environment.

This Etna adventure promises to be a highlight of the Sicilian excursion.

Discovering Syracuse

Travelers embark on a captivating journey to the ancient city of Syracuse, uncovering its rich Greek and Roman heritage.

The tour guide leads the group through the renowned Archaeological Park, where they marvel at the impressive Roman Amphitheatre and the magnificent Greek Theatre, once the site of grand performances.

They’ll also explore the Ear of Dionysus, a unique limestone cave with impressive acoustics, and the Cave of the Cordari, an ancient limestone quarry.

The day culminates on the charming Island of Ortigia, a historic center boasting a magnificent cathedral and lively piazzas.

This immersive experience provides a deep appreciation for Sicily’s storied past and its enduring cultural legacy.

Visiting Agrigento and Palermo

The tour continues its exploration of Sicily’s ancient wonders as it ventures to Agrigento and Palermo. In Agrigento, the group visits the Temples’ Valley, an archaeological site showcasing remarkably well-preserved Greek temples from the 5th century BC. After, the tour heads to Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital. Here, visitors discover the city’s diverse cultural influences, from the Norman-style Palermo Cathedral to the Palazzo dei Normanni, the former royal palace.

Highlights in Agrigento	Highlights in Palermo
Temple of Concordia	Palermo Cathedral
Temple of Juno	Palazzo dei Normanni
Temple of Heracles	Quattro Canti

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Erice, Riserva Dello Stagnone and Marsala

From Palermo, the tour heads west to the medieval town of Erice, known for its charming alleyways and stunning views overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here, travelers will stop to sample the town’s renowned almond pastries.

The next stop is the Riserva dello Stagnone, a breathtaking nature reserve featuring saltwater lagoons and windmills.

Afterwards, the group will visit Marsala to explore its rich winemaking heritage. At a local winery, they’ll have the chance to taste the region’s celebrated fortified wines.

This day offers a delightful blend of history, nature, and culinary delights – a true immersion in the diverse charms of western Sicily.

Highlights of Palermo and Monreale

On the sixth day, the tour explores the highlights of Palermo and Monreale.

Travelers begin the morning with a guided tour through the historic capital city of Palermo, admiring its vibrant mix of architectural styles and cultural influences.

After, the group ventures to the nearby town of Monreale to visit its renowned cathedral, famous for its magnificent Norman-Byzantine mosaics.

The cathedral’s opulent interior, with its gleaming gold tiles and intricate designs, is a testament to Sicily’s diverse heritage.

Afterward, the group returns to the Taormina area for dinner and an overnight stay, having immersed themselves in the rich history and cultural treasures of this remarkable region.

Optional Activities

Guests have the opportunity to partake in optional excursions on the seventh day, providing additional opportunities to explore Sicily’s diverse offerings. Travelers can choose from two exciting options: the ‘Taormina Coast to Coast by Boat’ tour, which allows for a scenic cruise along the coast (weather permitting), or the ‘Sicily Godfather Tour’, which takes guests on a journey to explore filming locations from the iconic Godfather movies.

Optional Excursion	Description	Price
Taormina Coast to Coast by Boat	Scenic cruise along the coast (weather permitting)	€50 per person
Sicily Godfather Tour	Explore filming locations from the Godfather movies	€75 per person

These optional activities offer a chance to customize the tour and delve deeper into the island’s rich history and culture.

Departure

After exploring the optional activities on the seventh day, the tour concludes on the eighth day with departure from the hotel by 10:00. Guests will have one final breakfast at the hotel before checking out and departing.

The tour includes:

1. An optional group transfer to Catania Airport, providing a convenient way for travelers to reach their next destination.

2. Ample time for guests to finalize any last-minute packing or personal matters before departing.

3. A seamless end to the 8-day excursion, allowing travelers to reflect on the highlights of their Sicilian adventure.

With the conclusion of the tour, guests depart with a wealth of memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of Sicily.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Flexible Is the Daily Schedule?

The daily schedule appears flexible, with a mix of structured activities and free time for optional excursions or personal exploration. Travelers can adapt the itinerary to their interests and pace, within the overall tour framework.

Can I Opt Out of Any Included Activities?

Participants can opt out of any included activities. The tour allows flexibility, so travelers can choose to participate in or skip activities according to their interests and preferences during the 8-day itinerary.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, many small-group excursions in Sicily range from 10-25 participants, providing an intimate experience. The exact group size may vary depending on tour dates and demand.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for This Tour?

Travel insurance isn’t required, but it’s recommended to protect against unexpected events. It can cover trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other potential issues during your tour. Purchasing travel insurance gives you added peace of mind.

How Accessible Are the Tour Sites for Individuals With Disabilities?

The accessibility of the tour sites varies. Some locations, like Taormina’s historical center, may have challenges for individuals with disabilities. Travelers should inquire about specific accessibility accommodations when booking the tour.

Recap

Sicily’s 8-day excursion tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences.

From the majestic Mount Etna to the stunning Greek temples, travelers will be immersed in the island’s enchanting charm.

With comfortable hotel accommodations and optional activities, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure, leaving visitors with cherished memories of Sicily’s captivating essence.

You can check if your dates are available here: