Highlights of Sicily: Palermo, Taormina & Mount Etna
This seven-night Sicily guided holiday is an excellent choice for Irish holidaymakers looking to experience the rich history and beautiful coastlines of Italy’s largest island. The tour is well-organised to show you the most significant landmarks while providing plenty of time to relax by the sea. Your journey begins in the vibrant capital of Palermo, a city where ancient and modern styles sit side by side. You will spend two nights here, with a full-day excursion to see the incredible architecture of the city and the famous mosaics of nearby Monreale. A group dinner at a local restaurant is included, offering a friendly start to your trip.
As the tour continues, you will head inland to visit the renowned Villa Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina. This site is famous for its vast collection of Roman mosaics, which are among the best-preserved in the world. Following this visit, the group transfers to the seaside resort of Giardini Naxos. This town serves as your peaceful base for the next five nights, situated directly on the Mediterranean with views of the mountains. It is a perfect spot for those who enjoy coastal walks and fresh sea air.
One of the true highlights of this Sicily guided holiday is the trip to Mount Etna. You will travel up the slopes of this active volcano to a height of 1,900 metres, where the panoramic views over the Sicilian countryside are truly spectacular. The day also includes a visit to the picturesque hilltop town of Taormina, where a guided tour of the ancient Greek Theatre is a must-see. Later in the week, you will explore the historic city of Syracuse, visiting the island heart of Ortygia and the impressive local archaeological sites.
To ensure a rounded experience, the holiday also includes a visit to Catania on your final day. Here, you can admire the unique Baroque buildings and enjoy a guided street food tasting to experience authentic Sicilian flavours. This holiday is designed to be straightforward and stress-free, with return flights, transfers, and the expertise of a local guide all included in the price. For guests travelling in September or October, the itinerary is slightly extended to eight nights, allowing for an extra day at leisure in Palermo to enjoy the city at your own pace.
What is the activity level for this Sicily guided holiday?
Are meals included in the price?
Will I have a guide during the excursions?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights and transfers
- 7 nights accommodation in 3 or 4-star hotels
- 7 breakfasts and 6 evening meals
- Full day guided excursion to Palermo and Monreale with a group dinner
- Guided visit to the Roman mosaics at Piazza Armerina
- Full day excursion to Mount Etna and the town of Taormina
- Guided tour of historic Syracuse and the island of Ortygia
- Guided tour of Catania with a Sicilian street food tasting experience
- Expert local representative to assist with your holiday
Itinerary
1Arrival for Your Sicily Guided Holiday+
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel in Palermo. During the drive, your guide will provide an introduction to the region and suggest some initial activities to help you settle in for your stay in the Sicilian capital.
2Exploring Monreale and Palermo+
Enjoy a full day discovering the varied history and architecture of Palermo and nearby Monreale. You will see how different cultures have influenced the city's landmarks, including the Norman Palace and Palermo Cathedral. The day concludes with a relaxed group dinner at a local restaurant.
3Piazza Armerina and Transfer to Giardini Naxos+
Today you travel inland to the town of Piazza Armerina to visit the Villa Romana del Casale. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains some of the world's most impressive Roman mosaics. In the afternoon, you will transfer to the coastal resort of Giardini Naxos for the remaining five nights of your trip.
4Free Time in Giardini Naxos+
This is a full day at leisure to relax. You can enjoy the facilities at your hotel, take a stroll along the sandy beach, or swim in the Mediterranean. Your guide can provide suggestions for local activities or places to visit based on your interests.
5Excursion to Mount Etna and Taormina+
Visit the slopes of the famous Mount Etna, travelling to 1,900 metres above sea level for breathtaking views of the coast. Afterwards, you will visit Taormina, a charming town known for its narrow streets and a guided tour of its historic Greek Theatre.
6Guided Tour of Syracuse+
Discover the ancient city of Syracuse today. The tour includes the historic island of Ortygia, home to the Arethusa Fountain and the city's cathedral. You will also visit the UNESCO-protected archaeological area to see the Greek Theatre and the Ear of Dionysius cave.
7Leisure Time by the Mediterranean+
Enjoy a final day to relax at your own pace in Giardini Naxos. You might choose to return to nearby Taormina independently for further exploration or simply enjoy the sun and sea air. Your guide remains available to offer tips for your free time.
8Catania Tasting and Journey Home+
After checking out, travel to Catania for a guided tour of its Baroque architecture and lively markets. You will enjoy a Sicilian street food tasting to sample local culinary specialities before transferring to the airport for your return flight to Ireland.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09 May 2027 | Twin | €1,719 | Enquire Now |
| 13 Jun 2027 | Twin | €1,719 | Enquire Now |
| 05 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,719 | Enquire Now |
| 03 Oct 2027 | Twin | €1,719 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices 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.
Ref: TD
