Treasures of Sicily and Malta

Ciao and welcome to Sicily. On arrival at Catania Airport, transfer to your hotel in Giardini Naxos, set along the coastline near Taormina and within easy reach of the town centre. This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Dinner.

Set out for Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, where you'll explore the lower slopes and view striking lava formations shaped by past eruptions. Later, continue to the beautiful hilltop town of Taormina for a guided walking tour. Visit the historic 13th-century Duomo, admire its blend of architectural styles, and explore the remarkable ancient Greek Theatre. Afterwards, enjoy time to wander Taormina's charming lanes and boutiques before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Spend today at leisure to enjoy Taormina at your own pace. Wander lively streets lined with boutiques and cafes, stroll through peaceful gardens, or relax by the beach and soak up the Sicilian sunshine.

Enhance Your Journey - Taormina Coastline Cruise Discover the dazzling coastline of Taormina and Giardini Naxos, where turquoise waters, hidden grottoes and secluded bays create one of Sicily's most captivating seascapes. Depart from Giardini Naxos and cruise past iconic Isola Bella, with opportunities to swim or snorkel in clear coves and enjoy a refreshing aperitif along the way.

Today travel into the mountains to Castelbuono, a charming town nestled within Madonie Regional Natural Park. Its narrow lanes and beautifully preserved historic centre create an immediate sense of old-world Sicily. Enjoy a special Insider Experience here before continuing to Cefalù, one of the island's most picturesque seaside towns. Wander its atmospheric streets, then journey on to Palermo, where the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Insider Experience - Lunch with Locals in Castelbuono Share a memorable lunch with locals in the hidden hill town of Castelbuono, savouring traditional regional dishes while experiencing the warm hospitality and timeless character of authentic Sicilian life.

This morning, discover the vibrant city of Palermo, one of Sicily's richest centres of history, art and culture. Visit the magnificent Palermo Cathedral, the richly decorated Church of St Mary of the Admiral, and the breathtaking Palatine Chapel, renowned for its glittering Byzantine mosaics. This afternoon, enjoy a memorable Insider Experience, then spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Insider Experience - A Taste of Palermo Set out on a mouth-watering food tour through Palermo, sampling a variety of authentic local dishes and drinks that capture the bold, layered flavours of Sicilian cuisine and everyday life.

Travel to Monreale this morning to visit the Monreale Cathedral and Benedictine Cloister, which form part of the Arab-Norman Palermo route, together with the Cefalù Cathedral - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, continue to Agrigento to explore the remarkable Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily's most significant archaeological treasures. Wander through this vast site, home to the remains of seven ancient Greek temples, all in Doric style, and a collection of well-preserved monuments. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Journey along the Mediterranean coast, stopping in the beautiful city of Ragusa. On arrival, join a local guide for a walking tour through the old town, weaving through a portion of Ragusa's maze of narrow streets. Learn about the city's rich architectural heritage, where centuries-old buildings stand in striking contrast to its modern quarters, before enjoying some free time to explore at your own pace.

Later, continue to the port town of Pozzallo to board the ferry to Malta. Relax on the crossing and take in the salty sea air as the Maltese coastline comes into view. On arrival, transfer to your hotel in Sliema, a lively seaside town just across the harbour from Valletta.

Today, discover Valletta, Malta's captivating capital. Founded in 1566 by the Knights Hospitaller, this fortified city rises between the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, its golden limestone streets laid out with military precision and Baroque grandeur.

Begin along historic Strada Reale - today's Republic Street - where everyday Maltese life unfolds. Visit the magnificent St John's Co-Cathedral, famed for its lavish interior and extraordinary collection of art and marble tombs, before continuing to St George's Square. Here, view the Grandmaster's Palace from the outside and step inside Casa Rocca Piccola, a privately owned 16th-century palace.

End the day with a traditional dhajsa boat cruise through Valletta's natural Grand Harbour, gliding past bastions and fortifications that reveal why this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is often described as an open-air museum.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Take time to simply relax and make use of your hotel's facilities, or choose to join an optional excursion to Gozo.

Enhance Your Journey - Full-Day Tour of Gozo with Lunch Travel by ferry to the island of Gozo and discover its distinctive character. Visit Ġgantija, home to the earliest of the Megalithic Temples of Malta, remarkable structures that predate the pyramids of Egypt. Continue to Victoria's historic Cittadella, admire the coastal beauty of Xlendi Bay, and browse for local crafts. Conclude the day with a light lunch at a traditional Maltese restaurant, complemented by a tasting of local Gozitan wine.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your Insider Experience. This evening, discover the timeless charm of Mdina, Malta's former capital. Nicknamed the ‘Silent City', Mdina is especially enchanting after dark, when lantern light casts a golden glow across its narrow streets. As you explore, your guide reveals the city's layered history and legends, including tales of the White Lady of Mdina. Take in sweeping views from the bastions before enjoying a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience - Pastizzi Cooking Experience Join a local chef in the tranquil Ta' Xmun Olive Grove for a hands-on cooking experience, learning the traditional art of making Malta's beloved pastizzi - crisp pastry filled with ricotta or pea puree.

Your journey through Sicily and Malta comes to an end this morning. transfer to the airport for your onward flight. If you're not quite ready to say goodbye, consider extending your travels with our European Gems river cruise.