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Treasures of Sicily: 8-Nights

Price $3045 $2895 9 Days
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Treasures of Sicily: 8-Nights

$3045 $2895 per person

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*Prices are per person in CAD dollars, based on double occupancy; land only

*Price displayed is the lead in rate and the discounted rate includes the member savings 

Discover Baroque towns and ancient Greek ruins whilst enjoying stunning scenery in Sicily

Sicily is one of the most fascinating islands in Europe, thanks to the indelible marks left by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish civilizations. This comprehensive tour explores its sophisticated cities, picturesque villages, well-preserved archaeological sites and splendid scenery. It starts with an excursion on Mt Etna, continuing to the towns of Syracuse, Agrigento and Selinunte – all listed as UNESCO heritage sites. There is also a day in Zingaro National Reserve with magnificent views of the Mediterranean.

What’s Included: All breakfasts and one wine tasting; All accommodation; Tour leader throughout; Special guided tours in main Unesco sites and cities; Group arrival and departure transfers available

What’s Not Included: Travel insurance; Single accommodation; Visa or vaccinations; Local city taxes (approximately €10-€15)

*MEMBER BENEFIT: $150 CAD off per person. Discount off Land Only; Price valid for new bookings only; Cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or offer; Excludes Tailormade tours.

Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext. 1
Mention Promo Code for Savings: 3068

Departure Dates

August 26
September 2
October 7, 14, 21
March 23
April 6, 13, 27
May 4, 11, 18
June 1, 8, 22
August 24, 31
September 7, 14, 21, 28
October 5, 12, 19
  • Destination
  • Arrival City
    Aci Trezza, Sicily
  • Departure City
    Taormina, Sicily
  • Activity Level
    The overall Activity Level for this trip is 2 (Leisurely/Moderate) meaning that it is suitable for all people who are in good health and fitness
  • Passenger Limit
    Normally 6 to 18, plus local leader
1
Start in Viagrande
Welcome to Viagrande, a traditional Catanian village with a privileged view of Mount Etna. From its lofty position above the sea it offers stunning views of Mount Etna. The current old town centre was founded in 1408 but Viagrande’s first settlement of the village was founded under the Greek domination. The ancient Roman road which led to Messina, gives the name to the village (Viagrande = big road). Important is the territory and the crops that, like the whole of Sicily and the rest of the Mediterranean, are present with vineyards, olive groves, and citrus groves. Depending on the arrival time of the group, we’ll have a welcome briefing at the hotel either this evening or tomorrow morning; a great chance to meet your tour leader and the rest of the group.

Overnight: Viagrande
Meals Provided: None
 
2
Excursion on Mt Etna, Europe's highest active volcano; afternoon wine tasting.
After breakfast we enjoy a spectacular guided walk on Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. We hike past several old lava flows to be rewarded with a dramatic panorama of the volcanic landscape and old craters (one to two hours’ walking, 3.1mi/5km). You are strongly advised to take a waterproof/windproof jacket, a warm top and to wear long trousers. In the afternoon, we enjoy a wine and cheese tasting in one of the most-celebrated cellars in the area.
Overnight: Viagrande
Meals Provided: Breakfast
3
Drive to Syracuse to visit its archaeological site; on to the UNESCO Baroque town of Noto.
This morning we drive to Syracuse (approximately 1hr 15min drive), the most powerful city-state in the ancient Greek world and briefly the capital of the Byzantine empire. Here we visit the superb Neapolis Archeological Park, home to a spectacular Greek theatre and well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, accompanied by a local guide. In the afternoon we drive to our next destination, the Unesco World Heritage site of Noto (approximately 45 mins), a beautiful town built in the Sicilian baroque style using honey-coloured stone.
Overnight:  Noto
Meals Provided: Breakfast
4
Morning visit the hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla; transfer to Agrigento's Valley of the Temples.
After breakfast we drive to the hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla (approx. 1hr 30 mins), a fascinating maze of winding streets dotted with remarkable baroque churches and continue to Agrigento (2hrs 30 mins). Here we enjoy a guided visit of its magnificent Valley of the Temples: The Temple of Juno, the Temple of Concorde, one of the most well-preserved Doric temples in all the Greek world, the Temple of Ercules and the Temple of Castor and Pollux. 
Overnight: Agrigento
Meals Provided: Breakfast
5
Visit ruins of Selinunte, overlooking the Mediterranean; drive to the hilltop village of Erice.
Our day starts with a transfer to Selinunte (1hr 30 mins) to explore one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, set high overlooking the sea. We then move on to the mountaintop village of Erice (1hr 30 mins) and stop en route for a view of the famous salt flats of Mozia, dotted with characteristic wind mills (time permitting). Once in Erice, we have time for a stroll through its narrow streets and will try the best almond cakes (cassata) on the island. 
Overnight:  near, San Vito Lo Capo
Meals Provided: Breakfast
6
Walk in the stunning Zingaro Nature Reserve; afternoon transfer to Palermo.
This morning we take a break from the cultural highlights of the island and head to the coast to explore one of the best examples of idyllic Mediterranean landscape on foot. Stretching along the coast for 7km between the lovely village of Scopello in the east to San Vito Lo Capo in the west, the Zingaro Nature Reserve boasts some stunning walking trails with views out to the cliffs and the glistening sea, hidden coves and pristine beaches. We take a leisurely walk for up to 3 hours (including stops) along beautiful coastal trails with the opportunity of a quick swim before returning to the bus. In the afternoon we make our way to Palermo (approx. 2hrs) where we can enjoy some time at leisure to discover the vibrant historic centre and lively streets filled with restaurants and bars. 
Overnight: Palermo
Meals Provided: Breakfast
7
Morning visit to Monreale Cathedral; guided tour of Palermo and free time.
After a short transfer to Monreale (approx. 1 hr), we visit its extraordinary cathedral, considered the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world. We then head to Palermo (approx. 1 hr) and our local guide will show us the most important sites of this beautiful city, including Quattro Canti, Pretoria Square, the Cathedral and Marina Square. In the afternoon we have some free time in Palermo to enjoy this eclectic city at our own pace. 
Overnight: Palermo
Meals Provided: Breakfast
8
Drive to the fishing village of Cefalu to visit its Norman Cathedral; on to charming Taormina; free time to explore.
This morning we drive to the fishing village of Cefalu (approx. 1 hr 15 mins), where we visit the impressive cathedral, home to elaborate Byzantine mosaics, and the lovely historic centre with its winding mediaeval streets. Our tour ends in one of the most renowned treasures of Sicily: the charming town of Taormina (approx. 2hrs 40 mins drive). We have time to visit its Greek theatre and enjoy the spectacular views of Mt Etna and the sea.
Overnight: Taormina
Meals Provided: Breakfast
9
End in Taormina.
Enjoy your final breakfast of this Sicilian adventure, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the many wonders of this Italian island.
Meals Provided: Breakfast
10
Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext. 1
Mention Promo Code for Savings: 3068

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