Sicily and Aegadian Islands

Arrive independently to the hotel in the charming city of Catania (optional private transfer on request at additional cost). In the evening you will meet your tour-leader and your travel companions and enjoy a welcome dinner. Overnight at Il Principe Hotel / Romano House Hotel or similar.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Syracuse, an ancient city rich in history and art. Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, home to the Greek Theatre; one of the largest ancient theatres in the world, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the ancient stone quarries of Latomie of Paradise. The tour includes a walk to the Ear of Dionysius. Continue to Ortigia, the historic center of Syracuse, to see Piazza Duomo, the Sicilian Baroque Cathedral, and the Arethusa Fountain. After lunch, depart for Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque, to admire its 18th-century architectural masterpieces. Enjoy free time in Noto before transferring to Ragusa for dinner and an overnight stay at Mediterraneo Palace Hotel or similar. (B)

This morning continues to Ragusa Ibla, known for its numerous churches, the splendid Giardino Ibleo, and beautiful Baroque palaces. Strolling through the cobbled streets, experience the atmosphere of a bygone era. Ragusa Ibla is also famous as the set of "Il Commissario Montalbano." Head Modica, another Baroque gem, with a stop at the renowned Sabadì chocolate shop, known for its unique, I.G.P. certified chocolate. Lunch at the Orti di San Giorgio, before afternoon departure for Piazza Armerina to visit the Villa Romana del Casale, famous for its extraordinary mosaics, considered among the best preserved in the Roman world. Transfer to Agrigento for dinner and overnight at Baia di Ulisse Wellness & SPA or similar. (B)

The day begins with a visit to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a key archaeological site of the ancient world. Explore the remains of Akragas, including the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Concord, and the Temple of Hercules. Next, depart for Marsala, known for Garibaldi's landing and its noble palaces, to admire Baroque monuments. The tour includes an exclusive visit to the Florio Cellars, featuring 19th-century vats and three historic wineries, with a light lunch and wine tasting. Later, tour along the Salt Road to see Marsala's historic salt pans of one of the oldest salt-extracting industries in the world! Transfer to Palermo for accommodation, with a free evening and overnight stay at Mercure Palermo Centro or similar. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, visit Monreale, renowned for its magnificent Arab-Norman Cathedral and its stunning Byzantine mosaics. Explore the Cloister with its finely carved columns. Continue to Palermo, a city at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, rich in diverse architectural styles. The tour begins at the Cathedral, an imposing structure with Norman, Arab, and Baroque influences, followed by visits to the Martorana Church, known for its splendid mosaics, and the Cappella Palatina, famous for its golden mosaics. After lunch at a local restaurant, admire the Teatro Massimo and the ornate fountain in Pretoria Square. Dinner is on own, followed by an overnight stay at Mercure Palermo Centro or similar. (B)

After breakfast private transfer to Trapani. (The tour now continues without the tour leader). Here you will board a hydrofoil to reach Favignana. The largest and most important of the Aegadian Islands, in the 1970s was named “La Farfalla” by the painter Salvatore Fiume, because of its butterfly shape. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner in a local restaurant and overnight at Hotel Aegusa or similar. (B)

Day beginss with a departure from Favignana harbour, for a relaxing circumnavigation of the island. First stop of this tour will be in Cala Rossa in Favignana, whose cliff is characterised by wonderful tuff caves surrounded by blue and crystalline waters. Later, arrive in Bue Marino, Cala Azzurra – famous for its sandy white beach – and Lido Burrone to enjoy free time for a dip. Arriving to the southern side of the island (Marasolo/Preveto), we will stop for a typical lunch onboard. Time for snorkelling or swimming to discover the charming coves. In the afternoon, departure for Cala Rotonda for a swim, coffee break and pastries and return to Favignana, after one last stop to Cala del Pozzo for a swim. Dinner and overnight at Hotel Aegusa or similar. (B)

After breakfast, free time to explore the beautiful island. Wander through the city's two squares and admire the traditional Mediterranean architecture with its white walls and blue or green windows. The waterfront offers a picturesque scene reminiscent of a painting, with the vintage charm of Favignana’s harbor, complete with ancient boats, nets, and anchors. Opportunity to swim in one of the stunning sea coves or opt for an extra boat excursion to Levanzo. Visit the fishing village, and sample local “granita” and “gelato.” The tour will continue to Il Faraglione, Cala Fredda, and Cala Minnola, with a stop for a swim. Return to Favignana harbor in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight at Hotel Aegusa or similar. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and head to Trapani. Spend the afternoon exploring Trapani's city center, known as the “City of 100 Churches” and famous for its fine local coral art crafts. With a rich history linked to Carthage, the Roman Empire, and the Spanish kingdom, Trapani offers a unique blend of cultures. Wander through charming alleys and experience its Arab-influenced atmosphere. Dinner and overnight in Trapani in Hotel Punta Tipa / Hotel Vittoria or similar. (B)

After breakfast, end of services. (B)

Please note the company is not responsible for any disruption due to weather and sea conditions concerning all hydrofoil and ferry crossings among the islands.