Highlights of Sicily including Palermo
Join us as we explore the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily, with its incredible beaches, delicious cuisine and storied past. We’ll experience the island’s rich history and unique culture on this 7-night group holiday in Italy. Starting in the buzzing city of Palermo, where ancient meets modern in spectacular style, we’ll spend two nights discovering its historic landmarks and cultural heritage before travelling on to the popular resort town of Giardini Naxos, the site of Sicily’s first Greek colony and our base for the remainder of the holiday. Directly on the Mediterranean and with spectacular views of Mount Etna, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. From there, we will explore ancient civilisations, tiny seaside villages and have time to relax by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean.
What’s Included:
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return direct flights from Dublin
- All Airport taxes and charges
- 10kg check-in bag per person
- 7 nights accommodation, 2 nights in Palermo & 5 nights in Giardini Naxos
- All coach transfers
- 7 breakfasts & 5 dinners
- Enjoy a full day guided tour highlighting the incredible art & architecture of Palermo & nearby Monreale.
- Discover the highest peak in Sicily on an excursion to Mt. Etna, with stunning views overlooking the sea.
- Step back into ancient Greece on visits to the historical cities of Taormina & Syracuse.
- Relax & soak up the Italian sun or explore on your own with plenty of free time & tips from your expert guide
- The assistance of our tour leader
- The assistance of our tour guide
More On Escorted Tours
Our full range of Escorted Tours
Please note that while this is our planned itinerary, we may have to make slight changes due to unforeseen circumstances. Regardless, we’ll pack in as much beauty and adventure as possible on this holiday of a lifetime!
Prices
| Dates | Cabin Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 May 2026 | Twin Sharing | €1759 | Enquire Now |
| 14 Jun 2026 | Twin Sharing | €1799 | Enquire Now |
| 06 Sep 2026 | Twin Sharing | €1799 | Enquire Now |
| 04 Oct 2026 | Twin Sharing | €1979 | Enquire Now |
Agent
Booking Remarks
Booking deposit €300Prices are per person based on two sharing.
Single Supplement applies
A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
Balance due 16 weeks before departure
Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply)
Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change
Booking terms & conditions apply
Travel Insurance is not included
TD
Good to Know
All of our tours include some level of walking activity and may include ascending/descending steps. Guests should be in relatively good health and have adequate mobility.Itinerary
Catania, Sicily, Italy
Transfer to Hotel
Upon arrival in Catania, we will transfer with guide assistance to Palermo, to enjoy a two night stay in the heart of this vibrant, fascinating city. The transfer time The transfer time between Catania and Palermo is approx. 3 hours & 30 minutes.
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
Full Day Guided Excursion to Monreale & Palermo
Full DayEnjoy a full day excursion to the city of Palermo and nearby Monreale. Discover the patchwork history created by wave upon wave of invaders, reflected in the varying architectural styles from the Norman Palace to Palermo Cathedral. In the evening you will visit a typical local restaurant for a relaxed group dinner
Visit the Town of Piazza Armerina
MorningToday, you will visit the lovely inland town of Piazza Armerina, for a visit to the renowned Villa Romana del Casale. This is a World Heritage Site which is a fantastic example of a luxury Roman villa, with stunning examples of Roman mosaics in almost every room.
Transfer to Giardini Naxos
AfternoonAfternoon transfer to the pretty beachside resort of Giardini Naxos for a relaxing five night stay.
At Leisure
4
Free Time in Giardini Naxos
Full DayEnjoy a day at leisure. Relax and enjoy the superb range of facilities at your hotel, take a stroll along the beach or dip your toes in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea! Your local guide will be happy to suggest activities to suit your interests.
Mount Etna & Taormina
5
Guided Excursion to Mount Etna & Taormina
Full DayToday’s excursion will take you to two of Sicily’s most famous attractions. Enjoy a visit to the slopes of magnificent Mount Etna. At 1900 metres above sea level, the panoramic views over the coast and countryside will take your breath away. Next you will visit the charming coastal town of Taormina, a colourful maze of narrow streets and terraces, where you will enjoy a guided tour of its famous Greek Theatre.
Syracuse, Sicily, Italy
Guided Tour of Syracuse
Full DayToday you will visit the spellbinding city of Syracuse. The historic heart of the city is located on the island of Ortygia, measuring just 1km by 500 metres, but packed with over 2,500 years of history. Sightseeing highlights include the Arethusa Fountain and Cathedral, as well as the city’s UNESCO protected archaeological area, with its Greek Theatre, the Latomie and the spectacular Ear of Dionysius.
At Leisure
7
Free Time in Giardini Naxos
Full DayTake a day relax by the bright blue sea at Giardini Naxos, and perhaps make an independent return visit to nearby Taormina. Your guide will be happy to make suggestions of places to see and things to do in the area.
Catania, Sicily, Italy
Depart Giardini Naxos
Today we will check out of our hotel and settle any charges incurred, we will be transferred to Catania for our return flight home.
Explore Catania & Transfer to the Catania Airport
Join us as we explore Catania, a vibrant city that perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. On our guided tour, we’ll uncover its iconic Baroque architecture, lively markets, and the unique charm that makes Sicily so charming. Following the tour, we will enjoy a Sicilian street food tasting experience, where we’ll savour some of the region’s most beloved culinary delights.
After enjoying some free time to explore at our own leisure (dependent on flight times), we will transfer to the airport for our return flight home.
Please Note: For 05 October departure you will fly in and out of Palermo with Ryanair. Due to the early return flight time and the long transfer back to Palermo we will depart Giardini Naxos a day earlier on 11th October and transfer to Santa Flavia with a stop in the charming coastal town of Cefalu, located in northern Sicily en route. We will enjoy a short guided tour of Cefalu famous for its Norman cathedral with elaborate Byzantine mosaics. Lunch is included in a local restaurant before continuing onto Santa Flavia where will check into the Hotel Domina Zagarella for one night stay on half board basis. We will check out of our hotel on the 12th October and transfer to Palermo airport for our return flight home. Breakfast boxes will be included.
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