Gold Sicily
PRIVATE MULTI-DAY TOUR
- Departure
- Duration
- Available
- Palermo
- 8 Days
- All year
Gold Sicily
This eight-day adventure takes you through Sicily’s vibrant cities and serene landscapes.
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, savor exquisite cuisine, and relax in Sicily’s finest towns like Palermo, Siracusa, and Taormina.
- Locations
Marsala
Agrigento
Piazza Armerina
Siracusa
Ragusa Ibla
Noto
Taormina
Land
Palermo airport - west side
Leave
Catania airport - east side
Tour Type
Private Multi Day Tour
People
2-99
Duration
8 Days
Season
All Year
Grade
Easy
See Itinerary Recap
9 days/8 nights: Palermo (3 nights), Siracusa (2 nights), Taormina (3 nights).
Arrival in Palermo, airport transfer, and hotel check-in.
Guided tour of Siracusa Archaeological Park and Ortigia Island.
Explore Palermo and Monreale, including a street food tasting.
Discover Ragusa Ibla, Noto, and enjoy Modica chocolate tasting.
Visit Marsala and Erice, with a light lunch at an olive oil farmhouse.
Relax and enjoy Taormina at leisure or choose optional add-ons.
Explore Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples and Piazza Armerina‘s Roman Villa.
Transfer to Catania airport for departure.
More details
Included
- Private vehicle with air conditioning
- English/Italian-speaking driver
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (where accessible)
- Guided tours as specified (e.g., Valley of the Temples, Siracusa Archaeological Park)
- Meals and wine tastings in select locations
Not Included
- Gratuities and tips
- Admission fees unless specified
- Meals and beverages not clearly listed
- Optional activities and add-ons
Tour Pricing
Rates are available on request.
Our Team can provide price for:
- Ground Services only (no hotel accommodation)
- Accommodation in Standard First class or Boutique Hotels
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off is included.
For Tours booked as Ground Services only:
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off will depend on the location chosen by you.
Our driver will do their best to get there or, in case of difficulties, the closest meeting point will be used for pick-up and drop-off.
It will be required to provide details of accommodation booked at the time of Tour Confirmation.
Accommodation Details
- Palermo (3 nights): Hotel Politeama or Hotel Plaza Opera
- Siracusa (2 nights): Grande Albergo Alfeo or Palazzo Salomone
- Taormina (2 nights): Hotel Splendid Taormina or Hotel Villa Schuler
Booking/Payment Terms
Deposit:
30% deposit required, payable by Visa/MasterCard/American Express.
Balance Payment:
- Due 2 months before tour starts.
- Reminder sent by booking team.
Cancellation Policy
- Euro 100 per person (considering a total tour amount of euro 1499)
- Euro 300 per person (considering a total tour amount between euro 1500 and euro 3499)
- Euro 500 per person (considering a total tour amount of more than euro 3500)
59–45 days: 25% non-refundable.
44–30 days: 50% non-refundable.
29–15 days: 75% non-refundable.
14 days or less: No refund.
For details, please visit Terms & Conditions.
Gratuities and Tips
Suggested Guidelines
- Airport Transfer: €10
- Half-Day Guides: €20–€30
- Full-Day Guides: €40–€50
- Half-Day Drivers: €20–€30
- Full-Day Drivers: €40–€50
Miscellaneous Information
- Emergency mobile number provided before arrival (WhatsApp available).
- 1 suitcase (23 kg) + 1 carry-on bag.
- Tour runs rain or shine; dress in layers with sturdy shoes.
Day 1
Day 1 Day 1 – Welcome to Sicily!
Upon your arrival at Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport, activate your phone or Wi-Fi and proceed through Passport Control. After collecting your luggage in the customs area, you’ll meet your Italian-speaking driver, who will be waiting in the arrivals section holding a sign with your name.
If you miss your flight connection or experience a delay, it’s crucial to contact the local emergency number immediately to reschedule your transfer or inform about changes in your pickup time. In case of lost or missing luggage, notify the driver through the customs police office, as they cannot enter the customs area.
The driver will wait for a maximum of 45 minutes after your flight lands. If you need the driver to wait longer, a surcharge of €30 per additional hour applies. Failure to communicate will result in a no-show with no refund.
Once you’re ready, your driver will transfer you to your hotel, marking the beginning of your unforgettable Sicilian adventure. Welcome to this warm and beautiful island!
Day 2
Day 2 Day 2 – The Capital of Sicily and Monreale
Your day begins at 8:30 AM with a guided exploration of two iconic destinations: Monreale and Palermo. Start with a short taxi ride to Monreale, where you’ll visit the magnificent Duomo, a masterpiece of Arab-Norman art and architecture. Commissioned by William II in 1174, this cathedral is famous for its stunning golden mosaics depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
Next, a short drive takes you to Palermo, where the tour begins with the Palatine Chapel, an extraordinary example of Norman-Byzantine art built by Roger II between 1130 and 1140. The chapel’s intricate mosaics are among the most remarkable in the region.
From there, you’ll visit the Four Corners (Quattro Canti), the central intersection of Palermo’s old town. This Baroque landmark features sculptures commissioned in 1611 that represent the four seasons, four Spanish kings, and the four patron saints of the city’s historic districts. Continuing along Via Maqueda, you’ll arrive at Piazza Pretoria, home to the famous “Fountain of Shame.” This striking fountain, adorned with nude statues of nymphs, mermaids, and satyrs, earned its nickname during the Inquisition for its bold design.
The tour concludes at Palermo’s vibrant Open Air Market, a bustling hub of fresh seafood, local cheeses, and produce, reminiscent of an eastern souk. This historic market, influenced by Sicily’s Moorish past, offers a sensory feast of colors, aromas, and flavors. Here, you’ll have the chance to sample a traditional Palermo street food dish, such as Panelle, thin chickpea fritters served in pizza-like slices.
This half-day tour blends history, culture, and gastronomy, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Sicily.
Day 3
Day 3 Day 3 – Marsala and Erice
Your day begins at 8:30 AM with a journey to the enchanting hilltop town of Erice, once a significant religious site dedicated to the goddess Venus. Stroll through its well-preserved medieval streets, explore renowned pastry shops famous for marzipan and pistachio treats, and take in breathtaking views that offer a palpable sense of history. Highlights include visits to the Pepoli Castle, built by the Arabs, and the Venus Castle, a Norman structure standing on the site of the ancient Temple of Venus, said to have been founded by Aeneas.
For lunch, you’ll visit a local Sicilian farmhouse renowned for its olive oil production. Enjoy a tasting of mixed local products, offering an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
In the afternoon, travel along the Salt Way Road, a scenic route dotted with historic saltpans where sea salt is still harvested using ancient Phoenician techniques. This picturesque landscape features windmills, terracotta-covered salt piles, and the shimmering lagoon, creating a unique and timeless atmosphere.
The journey continues to Marsala, known as “Marsa Allah” or the “Harbor of God.” This charming town is world-famous for its Marsala wine, Sicily’s oldest DOC wine, celebrated for its rich flavor and high alcohol content of approximately 18%.
After a day filled with history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights, you’ll return to Palermo, carrying the flavors and stories of western Sicily with you.
Day 4
Day 4 Day 4 – From Palermo to Siracusa: The Valley of the Temples and the Roman Villa
Your day begins at 8:00 AM with a drive through the heart of Sicily to reach Agrigento, home to the magnificent Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. During a two-hour guided walking tour, you’ll explore its renowned ancient landmarks, including the Temples of Hera, Concordia, Hercules, and Zeus.
Agrigento, known as Akragas in ancient times, was founded in 582 B.C. by Rhodian-Cretan colonists. Once a powerful and culturally rich city, it gained prominence under the rule of Phalarides and later Theron, expanding its influence across northern Sicily. The valley’s stunning temples, built during its golden age, are a testament to its historical and architectural significance.
In the afternoon, you’ll travel to Piazza Armerina for an independent visit to the Roman Villa of Casale, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the 4th century AD and rediscovered in the 20th century, this luxurious Roman villa showcases 3,500 square meters of stunning mosaics, depicting vivid scenes from Roman life. Likely the residence of an elite Roman citizen, the villa offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient opulence. Informative boards in each room provide details as you explore at your own pace.
After immersing yourself in Sicily’s rich history and archaeological wonders, the day concludes with a journey to Siracusa, where your adventure continues.
Day 5
Day 5 Day 5 – The Best of Siracusa
Your day begins at 9:00 AM with a guided exploration of Siracusa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a cultural gem of Magna Grecia. Start with a taxi transfer to the Siracusa Archaeological Park, where you’ll visit landmarks like the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Paradise Quarry. This park showcases Siracusa’s historical significance and its striking natural beauty.
Siracusa is a city of contrasts, with its urban landscape split between the mainland and the island of Ortigia. Its geographic diversity, from jagged cliffs to serene beaches, is paired with rich archaeological treasures, creating a truly unique destination.
Next, return to the city center for a guided walking tour of Ortigia Island, connected to the mainland by the Umbertino Bridge. Stroll through the charming streets of this historic hub, founded by Corinthian colonists in 735 B.C. Explore key landmarks, including the Baroque Dome, the Arethusa Fountain, the Maniace Castle (external view), the Temple of Apollo, and the elegant palaces surrounding the island.
The afternoon is yours to explore Siracusa at your own pace. For an unforgettable experience, consider an optional Ortigia Sunset Boat Tour with an aperitif, perfect for soaking in the city’s beauty from the water.
Day 6
Day 6 Day 6 – From Siracusa to Taormina: Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Noto
Your journey begins at 8:30 AM with a departure from Siracusa to Ragusa Ibla, a stunning example of Sicilian Baroque architecture. You’ll have time to independently explore the historic heart of the city, adorned with 18th-century churches, grand buildings, and charming gardens. Ragusa Ibla’s unique atmosphere and artistic heritage make it a truly unforgettable destination.
Next, you’ll visit Modica, where you’ll discover a gem of Sicilian gastronomy: Aztec-style chocolate. This specialty, rooted in an ancient Aztec recipe, was introduced to Sicily by the Spanish conquistadors. With its unique texture and rich flavor, Modica’s chocolate offers a delicious taste of history.
The journey continues to Noto, a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture and once the capital of the Arab Val di Noto. After the catastrophic earthquake of 1693, the city was rebuilt closer to the Ionian Sea, emerging as one of Sicily’s most beautiful Baroque towns. Along Noto’s main street, admire its honey-colored tufa stone buildings, including elegant churches and noble palaces.
In the late afternoon, the journey concludes as you arrive in Taormina, where you can relax and prepare for the next chapter of your Sicilian adventure.
Day 7
Day 7 Day 7 – Relax in Taormina
Today is a day for leisure, allowing you to explore Taormina, Sicily’s most cherished resort town, at your own pace. Perched on a coastal bluff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Taormina offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and charm. Wander its ancient streets lined with specialty shops, cafés, and restaurants, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.
Steeped in history, Taormina dates back to 395 BC, when it was settled by residents of nearby Giardini-Naxos, the oldest Greek colony in Sicily. This fascinating past adds depth to the town’s picturesque setting, inviting you to uncover its stories.
For those looking to enhance their experience, a variety of optional tours are available:
- Cooking Class with Lunch: A hands-on culinary adventure in the morning.
- Boat Tour Experience: Explore the coastline by sea during a half-day excursion.
- Godfather Village Tour: Visit the iconic villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, featured in The Godfather.
- Godfather Tour: Explore the historic Castello degli Schiavi, another Godfather filming location.
- Taormina Walking Tour: Discover highlights like the Greek-Roman Theatre with a guided visit.
- Etna Group or Private WD4X4 Tours: Enjoy a jeep excursion with lunch at a rustic trattoria or a winery.
- Etna Ascent Experience: Ascend to 3,000 meters for breathtaking views, paired with a snack.
- Etna Sunset Experience: Witness the volcano’s beauty at sunset on a half-day tour.
Whether you choose to relax in Taormina or embark on one of these exciting add-ons, the day is yours to create unforgettable memories.
Day 8
Day 8 Day 8 – Arrivederci!
It’s time to say farewell to Sicily. Your Italian-speaking driver will pick you up from your hotel in Taormina and transfer you to Catania Airport for your departure.
As you leave this enchanting island, take with you the memories of its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Safe travels, and arrivederci!
PRIVATE MULTI-DAY TOUR
- Departure
- Duration
- Available
- Palermo
- 8 Days
- All year
Private Multiday Tour
A personalized, immersive journey across Sicily, tailored to your group's needs and interests.
These exclusive tours range from 7 to 12 days and provide a flexible itinerary, private transportation, and dedicated guides, ensuring a seamless experience. Ideal for small to large groups (2-50 people), they allow you to explore Sicily’s rich history, culture, and landscapes at your own pace, with the comfort of expert support and insider access. Enjoy the luxury of privacy and the convenience of having all logistics managed by a trusted local team.
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