The Peoples of Sicily
PRIVATE MULTI-DAY TOUR
- Departure
- Duration
- Available
- Palermo
- 11 Days
- All year
The Peoples of Sicily
This eleven-day journey offers a deep dive into Sicily’s history, culture, and gastronomy.
Explore ancient ruins, charming towns, and indulge in local specialties while traveling through Sicily’s diverse landscapes.
- Locations
Segesta
Erice
Marsala
Mazara
Selinunte
Agrigento
Ragusa Ibla
Modica
Noto
Siracusa
Mount Etna
Land
Palermo airport - west side
Leave
Catania airport - east side
Tour Type
Private Multi Day Tour
People
2-99
Duration
11 Days
Season
All Year
Grade
Easy
See Itinerary Recap
11 days/10 nights: Palermo (2 nights), Marsala (2 nights), Agrigento (1 night), Ragusa (2 nights), Siracusa (3 nights).
Arrival in Palermo, transfer to the hotel, and check-in.
Discover Ragusa Ibla, taste stuffed ravioli, and indulge in Modica chocolate.
Explore Palermo and Monreale, delving into Arab-Norman roots.
Explore Noto‘s baroque charm and Marzamemi‘s fishing village.
Visit Segesta, Erice, and the Salt Way Road, with olive oil tastings.
Guided tour of Siracusa Archaeological Park, Ortigia Island, and Jewish sites.
Discover Marsala‘s saltpans, Mothia island, and enjoy a local winery visit.
Experience Mount Etna’s slopes and Taormina’s highlights.
Explore Mazara‘s Kasbha, Selinunte‘s ruins, and savor a couscous experience.
Transfer to Catania airport for departure.
Visit Agrigento‘s Valley of the Temples and Piazza Armerina‘s Roman Villa.
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
- Modica chocolate tasting
- Cultural experiences (e.g., couscous lunch, local winery visits)
Not Included
- Gratuities and tips
- Admission fees unless specified
- Meals and beverages not clearly listed
- Optional activities and add-ons
Tour Pricing
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
For Tours booked with hotel Accommodation:
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
Preferred hotel chosen for our Tours:
- Palermo (2 nights): Hotel Politeama or Hotel Plaza Opera
- Marsala (2 nights): Hotel Via col Vento or Hotel Baglio Oneto
- Agrigento (1 night): Hotel Colleverde or Baglio della Luna
- Ragusa (2 nights): Hotel San Giorgio or Hotel Antica Badia
- Siracusa (3 nights): Grande Albergo Alfeo or Palazzo Salomone
Hotels can be substituted based on availability at time of booking.
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.
Travel Insurance
- Not included; strongly recommended.
- Covers medical needs, cancellations, COVID-related issues, and travel bans.
- Purchase in your home country.
Cancellation Policy
From time of reservation until 60 days before your arrival: Our Non-Refundable Planning & Administrative Fees as follow:
- 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)
Cancellation Fees:
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, turn on your phone or Wi-Fi and proceed through Passport Control. After collecting your luggage, your Italian-speaking driver will be waiting in the arrivals area with a sign displaying your name.
In case of flight disruptions:
- Missed connection: Contact the local emergency number immediately to reschedule your transfer; failure to do so will result in a loss of service without refund.
- Flight delay: Notify the emergency number promptly to adjust your pickup time.
- Lost luggage: Inform the driver through the customs police office, as they cannot enter the customs area to assist.
The driver will wait for up to 45 minutes after your flight lands. If you require additional time, a surcharge of €30 per hour applies.
Once ready, enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel and begin your Sicilian adventure. Welcome to the island’s warmth and charm!
Day 2
Day 2 Day 2 – On the Roots of Arab-Norman Sites
Your day begins at 8:30 AM with a full-day guided walking tour of Palermo and Monreale, showcasing the unique Arab-Norman heritage of Sicily.
In Palermo, start at the Opera House and stroll to the Four Corners (Quattro Canti), the symbolic center of the old town. This Baroque landmark features sculptures commissioned in 1611, representing the four seasons, Spanish kings, and patron saints of the city’s districts. Continuing down Via Maqueda, arrive at Piazza Pretoria, home to the famed “Fountain of Shame,” a striking Renaissance fountain adorned with nude statues that scandalized the Inquisition era.
Next, visit the Palatine Chapel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site inside the Royal Palace. Built by Roger II in the 12th century, the chapel is a masterpiece of Norman-Byzantine art, featuring dazzling gold mosaics, inlaid marble floors, and intricate wooden ceilings—a testament to Sicily’s rich cultural blend.
In the afternoon, a short drive takes you to Monreale, where you’ll visit its iconic Duomo, another UNESCO site. Commissioned by William II in 1174, the cathedral is renowned for its breathtaking golden mosaics that depict biblical scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
The day concludes with a return to Palermo, filled with insights into Sicily’s extraordinary artistic and architectural heritage.
Day 3
Day 3 Day 3 – From Palermo to Marsala: Segesta, Erice, and the Salt Way Road
Begin your day at 8:30 AM with a drive through western Sicily to explore its historical and scenic gems. Your first stop is the Doric Temple of Segesta, an extraordinary 5th-century B.C. structure perched on a hill, showcasing one of the finest examples of ancient Doric architecture.
Next, enjoy lunch and an olive oil tasting at a local farm, immersing yourself in the flavors of Sicily.
Continue to the medieval town of Erice, perched atop a mountain and offering breathtaking views. Wander its cobbled streets lined with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. Highlights include visits to the Pepoli Castle, built by the Arabs, and the Venus Castle, a Norman fortress on the site of the ancient Temple of Venus. Don’t miss the famous pastry shops, known for their almond and pistachio treats and marzipan candies.
In the afternoon, travel along the Trapani-Marsala Salt Way Road, where ancient saltpans still produce sea salt using traditional Phoenician methods. The striking landscape, with its colorful basins ranging from green to pink, is dotted with restored windmills and piles of crystallized salt. The area is particularly enchanting at sunset, when the scenery is bathed in warm red hues.
The remainder of your day is free to relax and explore at your leisure.
Day 4
Day 4 Day 4 – Mothia Island and Marsala: Lagoon and Marsala Wine
Begin your day with a visit to the Marsala Saltpans, where the landscape is a striking mosaic of colorful basins, terracotta-topped salt piles, and historic windmills. These windmills, some still functioning, highlight the centuries-old Phoenician tradition of sea salt production.
Board a shuttle-boat to cruise across the Stagnone Lagoon to the island of Motya, a former Phoenician trading outpost. Here, explore the island’s rich history, including the remarkable Motya Charioteer, a 5th-century BC marble statue with Greek influences, found amidst ancient Phoenician fortifications hastily built during a siege by Dionysios I of Syracuse in 397 BC.
Lunch will be enjoyed at a local trattoria in Marsala, featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit a Marsala winery to sample the renowned Marsala DOC wine, Italy’s oldest DOC wine. With its rich, aromatic flavor and an alcohol content of about 18%, Marsala wine owes its unique character to the ancient “sapling” method of vine cultivation, preserving traditions that date back millennia.
This day offers a blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of Sicily’s finest flavors.
Day 5
Day 5 Day 5 – From Marsala to Agrigento: Mazara Kasbah, Couscous Experience, and Selinunte
Start your day at 8:30 AM with a visit to Mazara del Vallo, where the Kasbah, a maze of narrow streets, reflects its Saracen past and retains a strong Arab influence through its Tunisian immigrant community. Explore its unique atmosphere, with remnants like the historic Via Bagno and its ancient hammam (public baths).
For lunch, enjoy a Couscous Experience, featuring Sicily’s renowned seafood couscous. This traditional dish, introduced by Arab rulers in the 9th century, showcases Sicilian flavors with fish stock infused with cinnamon, bay leaves, and almonds, offering a taste of the island’s multicultural history.
In the afternoon, visit Selinunte, one of Sicily’s most significant Greek archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located near the sea, Selinunte’s vast archaeological park features ancient temples, city walls, and residential ruins, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of this once-thriving city. Its picturesque setting by the coast makes it a must-visit for history and nature lovers alike.
The day concludes with a drive to Agrigento, where your exploration of Sicily continues.
Day 6
Day 6 Day 6 – From Agrigento to Ragusa: Valley of the Temples and Roman Villa
Begin your day at 8:30 AM with a guided tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its iconic ancient landmarks, including the Temples of Hera, Concordia, Hercules, and Zeus, which showcase the city’s grandeur during its peak in the 5th century B.C. Founded in 582 B.C. as Akragas, Agrigento flourished under rulers like Phalarides and Theron, becoming a center of art, philosophy, and military strength. Described by Pindar as “the most beautiful of mortal cities,” its stunning temples are a testament to its rich legacy.
In the afternoon, visit the Roman Villa del Casale in Piazza Armerina, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This luxurious 4th-century Roman villa features remarkably preserved mosaics depicting mythological scenes, daily life, and Homeric adventures. Rediscovered in the 19th century after being buried by a landslide, the villa offers an extraordinary glimpse into ancient Roman artistry and culture.
Conclude your day with a journey to Ragusa, where you’ll prepare to explore the Baroque splendor of southeastern Sicily.
Day 7
Day 7 Day 7 – The Jewels of Baroque Sites: Ragusa Ibla and Modica
Start your day at 9:00 AM with a visit to Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO-listed Baroque gem in southeastern Sicily. Admire its stunning hilltop setting, with layered houses, churches, and palaces that create a breathtaking panorama. This picturesque town, a key filming location for the famous Commissario Montalbano series, captures the essence of Sicily’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
For lunch, savor a traditional Sicilian dish: ravioli stuffed with ricotta cheese, served with fresh tomato sauce, offering a true taste of the region’s cuisine.
In the afternoon, travel to Modica, renowned worldwide for its chocolate-making tradition. For over 400 years, Modica has preserved the ancient Aztec method of producing granulated chocolate, introduced during Sicily’s time under Spanish rule. Sample this unique chocolate, often flavored with chili pepper, cinnamon, or vanilla, as you explore the town’s chocolate shops. For enthusiasts, there’s even the chance to watch skilled chocolatiers at work.
End the day with a return to Ragusa, completing a journey filled with history, Baroque beauty, and delicious flavors.
Day 8
Day 8 Day 8 – From Ragusa to Siracusa: Baroque Noto and the Fishing Village of Marzamemi
Begin your day at 9:00 AM with a visit to Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular Baroque architecture. Wander through this stunning southeastern Sicilian town, exploring its elegant palaces, churches, and beautifully planned streets that make it one of the most iconic Baroque settlements in the region.
Next, travel to Marzamemi, a charming seaside village steeped in history. Dating back to the 1600s, this picturesque fishing town features colorful fishermen’s houses, the historic tuna fishing nets (tonnara), and the stunning Piazza Regina Margherita. The combination of rustic charm and coastal beauty creates an idyllic atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the essence of Sicilian maritime culture.
The day concludes with your arrival in Siracusa, ready to explore another captivating chapter of Sicily’s heritage.
Day 9
Day 9 Day 9 – The Best of Siracusa: Archaeology, Ortigia, and Jewish Heritage
Your day begins at 9:00 AM with a visit to the Siracusa Archaeological Park, where you’ll explore iconic ancient landmarks such as the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Paradise Quarry. This UNESCO-listed site showcases Siracusa’s rich history as a cultural hub of Magna Grecia, set against a stunning natural backdrop of cliffs, beaches, and valleys.
Afterward, return to the city center for a guided walking tour of Ortigia Island, the historical heart of Siracusa. Cross the Umbertino Bridge to discover highlights like the Baroque Dome, the Arethusa Fountain, the Temple of Apollo, and the Maniace Castle (external view). Strolling through Ortigia’s picturesque streets, you’ll experience its unique blend of ancient and medieval architecture.
In the afternoon, delve into Siracusa’s Jewish heritage. Walk along Via Della Giudecca (“Road of the Jews”), once home to the city’s Jewish community, the second largest in Sicily after Palermo. Visit the remarkable Mikveh, a ninth-century Jewish ritual bath rediscovered beneath a modern hotel. This site, fed by natural spring waters, is a powerful reminder of the vibrant Jewish life that flourished here for over 1,500 years before the expulsion ordered by Ferdinand and Isabella.
This full-day tour offers a rich tapestry of history, blending Siracusa’s ancient Greek origins, Baroque elegance, and profound cultural layers.
Day 10
Day 10 Day 10 – Mount Etna and Taormina: Volcano Adventure and Coastal Beauty
Start your day at 8:30 AM with a scenic drive to the southern slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Explore the lava fields from the 2002 eruption and take in the dramatic landscapes that highlight Etna’s turbulent volcanic history. For a more immersive experience, an optional cable car ascent to higher elevations is available (fee not included), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape—weather and volcanic activity permitting.
Next, visit Taormina, Sicily’s renowned resort town. Enjoy an independent exploration of the Greek-Roman Theater, where stunning panoramas of the town, countryside, and coastline provide a perfect backdrop for your visit.
In the afternoon, return to Siracusa, bringing an unforgettable day of natural wonder and historical charm to a close.
Day 11
Day 11 Day 11 – Arrivederci!
It’s time to bid farewell to Sicily. Your Italian-speaking driver will pick you up from your hotel in Siracusa and transfer you to Catania Airport for your departure.
Take with you the memories of Sicily’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Safe travels, and arrivederci!
PRIVATE MULTI-DAY TOUR
- Departure
- Duration
- Available
- Palermo
- 11 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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