Highlights of Sicily

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. Stay: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar) Upgrade to a superior room today - speak to your sales representative for more details.

Enjoy a spectacular guided walk on Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, hiking on hilly, steep terrain of dried lava, rocky ash and sand. We pass 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). If you'd prefer to skip the walk, you can ascend the central crater (see Extra Expenses for prices), first by cableway to the terminal, before a 4×4 ride and walk with a volcanology guide. 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. Stay: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar) Upgrade to a superior room today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

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. We also visit Ortygia, where we have an exploration with the tour leader and free time to rest or explore some more.

In the afternoon, we drive to our next destination, the World Heritage site of Noto (approximately 45 minutes), a beautiful town built in the Sicilian baroque style using honey-coloured stone. Stay: Hotel Flora (or similar) Upgrade to a junior suite with terrace today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Della Valle (or similar) Upgrade to a superior room today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

Start with a transfer (1hr 30min) to Selinunte to explore one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, set high overlooking the sea. We then drive (1hr 30min) to the mountaintop village of Erice. Here, we have time to stroll through the narrow streets − you may also like to try some of the best pastries on the island! Head to Trapani, where we check into our hotel, then join the tour leader for an orientation tour around this city founded by the Elymians to serve as a port for Erice. Today, Trapani is famous for salt production and coral crafts. Stay: B&B Trapani Crystal (or similar) Upgrade to a deluxe room today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

Head to the coast this morning 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. If you'd prefer to opt out of the walk, you can rest at the visitor centre.

In the afternoon, we head 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. Stay: Hotel Posta (or similar) Upgrade to a superior room today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Posta (or similar) Upgrade to a superior room today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

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. Stay: Hotel Villa Esperia (or similar) Upgrade to a superior room today - speak to your sales representative for more details (B).

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 (B).