Compare Treasures of Sicily by Exodus Travels vs 14 Day Discover Sicily & Malta 2020 Itinerary by Gate 1 Travel

Day 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 views of Mount Etna. The current old town centre was founded in 1408 but the first settlement here was founded under Greek rule. The ancient Roman road that led to Messina gives the name to the village (Viagrande means big road). Depending on the arrival time of the group, we 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. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar)

Day 2 Excursion on Mount Etna; 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 (pants). In the afternoon, we enjoy a wine-and-cheese tasting in one of the most-celebrated cellars in the area. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar)

Day 3 Drive to Syracuse to visit its archeological site; on to the Unesco-badged 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. Accommodation: Hotel Flora (or similar)

Day 4 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 (approximately 90 minutes), a maze of winding streets with remarkable baroque churches, and continue on to Agrigento (2hr 30min). Here we enjoy a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples: the Temple of Juno; the Temple of Concorde, one of the most well-preserved doric temples in the ancient Greek world; the Temple of Hercules; and the Temple of Castor and Pollux. Accommodation: Hotel Della Valle (or similar)

Day 5 Visit ruins of Selinunte, overlooking the Mediterranean; drive to the hilltop village of Erice

Our day starts with a transfer to Selinunte (90 minutes) to explore one of the most important archeological sites in the Mediterranean, set high overlooking the sea. We then move on to the mountaintop village of Erice (90 minutes), and stop en route for a view of the Mozia salt flats, which are dotted with characteristic windmills (time permitting). Once in Erice, we have time for a stroll through its narrow streets and will try the best almond biscuits on the island. We stay overnight in the town of Buseto Palizzolo or Trapani. Accommodation: Baglio Fontana or B&B Trapani Crystal (or similar)

Day 6 Walk in the Zingaro Nature Reserve; afternoon transfer to Palermo

This morning head to the coast to explore the idyllic Mediterranean landscape on foot. Stretching along the coast for 4.3mi (7km) between the lovely village of Scopello in the east to San Vito Lo Capo in the west, the Zingaro Nature Reserve has 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 three 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 (approximately 1hr 30min) where we can enjoy time at leisure to discover the vibrant historic centre and lively streets filled with restaurants and bars. Accommodation: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (or similar)

Day 7 Morning visit to Monreale Cathedral; guided tour of Palermo and free time

After a short transfer to Monreale (approximately one hour), we visit its extraordinary cathedral, considered the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world. We then head to Palermo (approximately one hour) where our local guide will show us the most important sites in this beautiful city, including Quattro Canti, Pretoria Square, the cathedral and Marina Square. In the afternoon, we have free time in Palermo to enjoy this eclectic city at our own pace. Accommodation: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (or similar)

Day 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 (approximately 1hr 15min), where we visit the impressive cathedral, home to elaborate Byzantine mosaics, and the lovely historic centre with its winding medieval streets. Our tour ends in one of the most renowned treasures of Sicily: the charming town of Taormina (approximately 2hr 40min drive). We have time to visit its Greek theatre and enjoy the spectacular views of Mount Etna and the sea. Accommodation: Hotel Villa Esperia (or similar)

Day 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. Once you’re full, it’s time to start your return journey home.

Day 1: Saturday - Depart for Italy

Depart for Italy

Day 2: Sunday - Arrive in Palermo

Meals: Dinner

Overnight: Palermo

Welcome to Sicily! Arrive in Palermo, the energetic capital of Sicily, and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest and relax. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting at approximately 6 PM (exact time will be advised on tour arrival day) with your Tour Manager on the upcoming journey that awaits you, followed by a Welcome Dinner with the group

Day 3: Monday - Palatine Chapel and Palermo City Tour

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight: Palermo

Start your tour of Palermo with a visit to the Palatine Chapel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located inside the complex of Palazzo dei Normanni. Its glittering gold mosaics, complemented by inlaid marble floors and wooden ceilings, reflect Norman Sicily's cultural complexity. Continue with a walking tour of the Cathedral, Piazza dei Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, and the church of Casa Professa, an expression of the Baroque style in its most amazing form. Visit a Puppet Theater, which is a traditional form of Sicilian entertainment that dates back to the 15th century and is still alive today. Discover Palermo on your own with its winding alleyways and colorful back streets during free time.

Day 4: Tuesday - Segesta, Farm Lunch, Erice

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Marsala Area

Embark on a morning drive through western Sicily and view the famous Doric Temple of Segesta rising high on a hill, which was constructed in the 5th century B.C. and is one of the greatest examples of this Doric style of architecture. Afterward, savor lunch with an olive oil tasting at a local farm. Continue to the mountaintop Erice, a wonderfully preserved medieval town with breathtaking views and a great historical presence. Walk along the cobbled streets lined with superb examples of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture, home of the “Ericina” ceramic handicraft art. Continue to your hotel for dinner.

Day 5: Wednesday - Saltpans, Motya Charioteer, and Mazara Kasbah Maze & Dancing Satyr

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Overnight: Marsala Area

A short drive to the salt pans area before boarding your boat to cruise on the Stagnone Lagoon to the island of Motya, an ancient trading outpost for Phoenician merchants. Here, you will see the beautiful and unique marble statue of the Motya Charioteer, a Greek influenced masterpiece dated back to the 5th century BC. It was found inside Phoenician fortifications, which were quickly erected before Dionysios I of Syracuse invaded and sacked Motya in 397 BC. Time for lunch before continuing to Mazara to walk the Kasbah maze of streets and view the statue of the Dancing Satyr, a rare example of Greek bronze sculpture, which was accidentally discovered by a fishing boat in 1998. End your day with dinner facing the sea before returning to your hotel

Day 6: Thursday - Valley of Temples

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Agrigento

This morning, view the stone quarries of Cusa before enjoying lunch featuring local specialties. In the afternoon, continue to discover Agrigento's celebrated Valley of the Temples, the largest and best preserved temple ruins outside of mainland Greece. Tour this magnificent archaeological park, built between 430 and 510 B.C. and majestically positioned on rocky crests south of modern day Agrigento.

Day 7: Friday - Make your own Pizza and Piazza Armerina

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Overnight: Ragusa

Today, enjoy making your own Pizza using local, fresh ingredients. After tasting your own creation, travel to Piazza Armerina to view the intricate examples of Roman mosaics at the famous Roman Villa del Casale, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These extraordinarily vivid mosaics deal with numerous subjects, ranging from Homeric escapades and mythological scenes to portrayals of daily life. The villa itself was rediscovered in the 19th century after being almost completely covered by a landslide. Continue on to check into your hotel in Ragusa.

Day 8: Saturday - Ragusa-Ibla, Modica, Aromatic Herb & Plant Gardens

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight: Ragusa

This morning, indulge in the baroque atmosphere of Ragusa-Ibla, with its breathtaking sights of houses, churches, and palaces that seem layered on top of one another. After lunch, travel to Modica, known all over the world for its chocolate production. Then, visit a garden of aromatic herbs & plants. Test your senses as you learn how to identify, grow, and use the herbs. Return to your hotel in Ragusa in the evening.

Day 9: Sunday - Noto, Siracusa with its Neapolis & Ortigia

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Overnight: Catania

Today, travel to Noto, a wonderful Baroque town, where you will have time to wander and discover one of the most spectacular urban settlements. Arrive in Siracusa to admire the “Old City,” Città Vecchia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the island of Ortigia. After free time for lunch, continue with a visit to the archaeological area of the Neapolis and get a glimpse of Siracusa as it was in ancient times with its Greek theater, the remains of Roman Amphitheater, and the "Ear of Dionysius," an awe-inspiring artificial limestone cave renowned for its outstanding acoustics. Travel to Catania, a wonderful combination of ancient and modern, under the shadow of Mt. Etna.

Day 10: Monday - Mt. Etna Summit & Taormina

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Overnight: Catania

Begin the day with a visit to the lava-crusted slopes of Mt. Etna, which dominates the scenery and is the most active volcano in Europe! Ascend via cable car and bus to reach the altitude of 9,000 feet; step carefully on the varied layers of lava which have solidified over the centuries. Learn about Etna’s impact on the surrounding area and its unique geology. Stop to sample some typical street food for lunch before heading toward Taormina, where you will take a walk on the main Corso, followed by free time to enjoy the city. Perhaps visit the massive Greek theater, from where you can admire the remarkable panoramas of the city and countryside. Return to Catania in the late afternoon.

Day 11: Tuesday - Arrival in Malta, Valletta Sightseeing

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Overnight: Sliema

This morning, depart for your early flight to Malta. Begin your discovery in Valletta, the beautiful walled capital of Malta. The town was built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, and maintains the same historical feel with its majestic gardens and baroque art & architecture. Afterwards, head across the Grand Harbor to explore the historical area known as the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Cospicua & Senglea. Tonight, experience your first taste of Maltese cuisine during dinner at your hotel.

Day 12: Wednesday - Explore Gozo

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Overnight: Sliema

Begin your day early and travel to Malta’s sister island of Gozo, an island where time stands still and traditions and customs form the daily life of the islanders. Gozo is greener, more rural, and offers beautiful scenic views, having most of the population still following their forefathers' trades of farming and fishing. During this excursion, visit the Temple of Ggantija, which is the only major prehistoric site on the Island of Gozo. The temple is among the oldest and best preserved in the world. Afterwards, enjoy a Mediterranean tasting of wine and local delicacies followed by lunch. This afternoon, return to Sliema and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 13: Thursday - Mdina & Rabat

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Overnight: Sliema

Your tour today will first take you to Rabat to explore St Paul’s Catacombs, which feature an extensive underground system of tombs that date back to the medieval period. Continue to Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta, located in the central part of the island. This walled city dates back to prehistoric times and has witnessed Malta's major historical events, having a strategic position on one of the land´s highest plateaus. During your walk in the silent city, visit the Mdina Cathedral and the imposing bastions that allow you to admire panoramic views of most of the island. Proceed to Naxxar, the oldest village on the island, to visit Palazzo Parisio, a unique 19th century palace with splendid gardens. Afterward, return to your hotel in Sliema. Tonight, enjoy dinner together and bid farewell to your Tour Manager and newfound friends.

Day 14: Friday - Depart Malta

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.