Sicily: Almond Blossoms under the Snow-Capped Etna

Tour start date(s):	04-03-2025
Duration:	8 days
Location:	Palermo - Montreal - Taormina - Catania - Messina - Noto - Catania
Price (including tax):	Double: $2090USD / Single: $2780 (without flight)

Sicily: Almond Blossoms under the Snow-Capped Etna

This tour to the island of Sicily can truly be called unique.
We will visit this hospitable Italian island in winter, when it is not as hot as in summer, allowing us to explore all the cultural gems of the island without suffering from the heat. The average temperature in winter in Sicily is around 10°C. This is also the optimal period, as the main wave of "beach" tourists from Italy fills the island in summer, and it will be much more comfortable for us to visit Taormina, Palermo, and Syracuse without the crowds.
Sicily has always been a favorite winter destination for European aristocracy, as well as for famous writers and artists. The great Goethe adored Sicily, and he certainly knew Italy and its most picturesque places well! "Sicily is the key to Italy, just as Italy is the key to Europe," Goethe once said of Sicily.

We invite you to visit Sicily during the almond blossom season. The Sicilian almond, recognized as a treasure by Slow Food, is rightly considered the best in the world. We will travel to the Noto Valley, where we’ll witness the blooming almonds and have the chance to taste authentic almond wine and almond ice cream. Almonds are an integral part of Sicily's culture and wealth. The almond tree was brought to Sicily from Ancient Greece, where almonds were revered in myths and legends. The almond has thrived in the warm climate and rich soil of Sicily for centuries, and has been used in the production of almond wine and numerous sweets. It’s impossible to count the number of fantastic Sicilian desserts that feature the fragrant and slightly bitter local almond: marzipan, torrone, sorbets, almond milk, biancomangiare (a delicate almond soufflé), and of course, the unparalleled GELATO!!! You’ll get to decide which of these desserts will become your favorite.

Welcome to Sicily, the key to Italy, under the shadow of the great Etna and among the blooming almond trees!

WHY CHOOSE THIS TOUR:

ELEVEN (!) guided excursions with a licensed guide are included in the tour.
We will spend one night in Palermo and stroll through the evening capital of Sicily.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site – the golden Norman cathedral in Monreale.
Sicilian Paradise – Cefalù with its postcard-perfect views.
We’ll ascend Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe.
Visit Savoca, where we’ll uncover the secrets of the Sicilian Mafia.
Olive oil and wine tasting right on the slopes of Mount Etna.
We’ll explore the elegant Taormina and enjoy million-dollar views.
Ortigia Island in Syracuse and its legends.
Visit Noto – a UNESCO World Heritage gem, a baroque pearl, and a city that’s like a stone garden.
Tasting of bitter chocolate and almond wine, and much more!
This is a tour designed to immerse you in the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of Sicily, with an itinerary that blends natural beauty, historical landmarks, and local traditions.

Day 1: Palermo - The Pulsing Heart of Sicily
Arrival at Palermo Airport (Sicily). Please arrive by 2 PM. Meet your guide at the airport and transfer to your hotel in Palermo (8 km). After check-in, meet your guide at the hotel for an evening stroll through the vibrant streets of Palermo.

We’ll begin by visiting the Palermo Cathedral, founded in the 12th century on the site of a mosque. The cathedral features a remarkable blend of Norman, Catalan, and Gothic styles, with traces of Islamic influence still visible. This is where the Kings and Emperors of Sicily were crowned. The Archbishop who commissioned its construction hoped to build a cathedral that would surpass the one in Monreale. Tomorrow, you will visit the cathedral in Monreale, and you can decide for yourself which of these two cathedrals is the true winner of the Cathedral Game.

We’ll also see the Teatro Massimo, the third largest opera house in Europe after Paris and Vienna, an exquisite example of the Liberty style. To make space for the theater, several churches were demolished, and locals claim that the ghost of Saint Agatha still haunts the area around the theater.

Overnight in Palermo.

Day 2: The Golden Cathedral of Monreale and Sicilian Paradise - Cefalù
Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby and check out with your luggage. Transfer to Monreale (12 km).

We’ll begin our day with a visit to the Monreale Cathedral, a stunning 12th-century Arab-Norman cathedral that attracts visitors from all over the world. Inside, you’ll witness the extraordinary golden glow of the cathedral’s mosaics. This radiant effect was intentionally created by the builders in the 12th century to evoke the divine presence. We will explore the process behind the creation of these mosaics and uncover the secrets of the master artisans who crafted them.

Next, we head to the charming town of Cefalù. The name “Cefalù” comes from the ancient Greek word Kephaloidion, meaning “head” or “rock,” which refers to the nearby La Rocca mountain that resembles the shape of a human head. The natural beauty surrounding Cefalù—its mountains and crystal-clear sea—has earned the town the title of "Sicilian Paradise."

Overnight at a seaside hotel on the eastern coast of Sicily.

Day 3: Taormina - The Pearl of the Ionian Sea and Castelmola
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll transfer to Taormina (7 km), affectionately called the "pearl of the Ionian Sea" by locals. As Guy de Maupassant once said, "If you only have one day in Sicily, spend it in Taormina..." We’ll stroll along the town's main street, from the Messina Gate to the Catania Gate, and you’ll understand why this street is a favorite among both locals and visitors. It’s lined with countless boutiques and charming restaurants offering something for every taste.

With your guide, we’ll visit the Corvaja Palace, with its Arab tower, explore ancient churches, and wander through the narrowest street in the town, Vicolo Stretto. In front of the Cathedral of Taormina, you’ll encounter an unusual symbol of the town—the crowned centaur maiden. From the elegant Piazza IX Aprile (which your guide will explain to you), you’ll enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramas in the world.

After the tour, you’ll have time to visit the Greek Theatre (optional extra) and enjoy lunch at one of the town's renowned eateries.

Next, we’ll head to Castelmola (7 km), an ancient village perched atop Mount Tauro, overlooking the Ionian Sea. We’ll wander through the Piazza San Antonio, paved with mosaic tiles made of lava stone, visit the ruins of a 12th-century Norman castle, and explore ancient churches. We’ll also stop at a unique bar, where you can taste the region’s famous almond liqueur served in a glass with a phallic design—an experience you can even take home as a souvenir (tasting available as an extra).

Overnight at a seaside hotel on the eastern coast of Sicily.

Day 4: Conquering Mount Etna and Catania - The City of the Sphinx
After breakfast, we depart from the hotel at 9:00 AM and head to Mount Etna (55 km).

For the ancient Greeks, Etna was the home of giants and monsters. Today, we’ll ascend to a tourist platform at 1900 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll have the chance to visit souvenir shops selling lava-based trinkets and taste Etna Fire, a unique liqueur made from red orange zest and spicy chili pepper.

For lunch, you can enjoy a meal at the summit (optional, at an additional cost), or if you're feeling adventurous, you have the option to ascend to 3000 meters using a cable car and a jeep (extra cost). At this height, you can witness the effects of recent eruptions. Afterward, we descend from the slopes of the volcano and stop for a tasting of local wines, olive oils, and the unique honey of Mount Etna, all produced from the volcanic soil. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase these regional delicacies.

Next, we head to Catania (15 km), the largest city on Sicily’s eastern coast. Our tour begins at the historic Catania Fish Market, where you’ll feel the vibrant atmosphere of this traditional Italian market, which has been open for over 300 years. We will then visit the Catania Cathedral, home to the tomb of the great composer Bellini and the relics of Saint Agatha, the patron saint of the city.

We’ll also take a look (from the outside) at the Ursino Castle, which once served as the residence of the Aragonese kings and was the site of the queen's abduction. The ruins of the ancient Roman Amphitheater, dating back to the 2nd century BC, are also on our list of sights to see.

After the tour, your guide will introduce you to a local delicacy—"Saint Agatha's Breast" (a traditional pastry)—and recommend where you can try this sweet treat for yourself.

Overnight at a seaside hotel on the eastern coast of Sicily.

Day 5: Messina - The Gateway to Sicily and Following the Footsteps of The Godfather in Savoca
After breakfast, we check out of the hotel and meet the guide for our departure. We begin with a transfer to Messina (50 km), often called the “Gateway to Sicily.” Founded by the ancient Greeks in the 8th century BC, Messina has a rich historical heritage and is one of the oldest cities on the island.

In Messina, we’ll visit the magnificent Messina Cathedral and explore the astronomical clock tower, which was used as a precise timekeeping device until the mid-19th century. The astronomical clock of Messina is the largest of its kind in the world!

Afterward, we head to Savoca (42 km). This picturesque village (75 km from Messina) is where much of Francis Ford Coppola’s famous film The Godfather was filmed. We’ll visit Bar Vitelli, the location where Michael Corleone met his future father-in-law, and the Church of Saint Lucy, where the iconic wedding scene was shot.

Your guide will also share the fascinating, yet dark, real-life history of the Sicilian Mafia, discussing the modern-day Mafia and the violent clan wars over territorial control that have shaped the island's criminal underworld.

After this journey into the heart of Sicilian history, we’ll return to our hotel (30 km).

Overnight at a seaside hotel on the eastern coast of Sicily.

Day 6: Ortigia Island in Syracuse and Noto - The "Stone Garden"
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for Syracuse. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the central market on the island of Ortigia, where your guide will introduce you to local delicacies.

We’ll then walk along the island’s oldest street to the Temple of Apollo and visit the Syracuse Cathedral, located on the site of an ancient Greek temple. We’ll also explore the stunning 15th-century Church of Saint Lucia and hear the captivating legend of the beautiful nymph Arethusa, who was transformed by divine intervention into a life-giving spring to escape the amorous advances of the river god Alpheus.

You’ll have free time to wander along Ortigia’s seafront, where your guide will point out the best fish restaurants. You can enjoy local delicacies like tuna tartare, swordfish rolls, baby fish fritters, paired with refreshing local white wine, all while taking in the charming views of the bay. We’ll also take a walk in front of the Byzantine General Maniace’s Castle, where you can snap some photos before we continue our journey to Noto (40 km).

Noto lies in the picturesque Azìna valley, surrounded by groves of ancient olive trees, almonds, and citrus fruits. The city is known as the “Stone Garden” for its stunning Baroque architecture, with its elaborate and unique facades, balconies, arches, and windows.

We’ll pass through the Royal Gates, adorned with Bourbon symbols, visit the Noto Cathedral, and admire the “necklace” of churches and aristocratic villas that line the streets. We’ll also stop for a tasting of Modica's bitter chocolate and almond wine, both famous local treats.

Overnight at a seaside hotel on the eastern coast of Sicily.

Day 7:
Breakfast at the hotel. Free day by the sea or optional excursion available for an additional fee (to be paid locally).
You can choose to relax at the beach, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or opt for an additional excursion to explore more of Sicily's wonders.

Overnight at a seaside hotel on the eastern coast of Sicily.

Day 8: Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Catania Airport (65 km) according to your flight schedule (available for any flight).
For night flights between 10 PM and 6 AM, an additional fee of $25 per person will apply.

Package available for a minimum of 6 people and a maximum of 7 people.

Pricing and Accommodation:

½ Double (Shared Room): $2090 USD per person
Single Supplement: $2780 USD

Hotels Along the Route:

1 Night: Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal or similar
6 Nights: Hotel Rivage Taormina or similar

The Package Includes:

Accommodation:

1 night in Palermo
6 nights at a resort on the eastern coast of Sicily, including breakfast
Excursions along the itinerary

Transfers as per the program (available for ANY flight arrival and departure. For night flights between 10 PM and 6 AM, an additional fee of $25 per person applies)

Russian-speaking tour guide for the entire tour

Entrance ticket to the Cathedral of Monreale

Wine, olive oil, and honey tasting on the slopes of Mount Etna

Tasting of famous Modica chocolate in Noto and almond wine

The Package Does Not Include:

City taxes at the hotels (to be paid in cash upon check-in, ranging from 3 to 5 euros per person per night)
Tips for the guide

Cost of Extra Nights:

Hotel in Palermo:

½ DBL-BB (Shared Room): $95.00
Single Room: $165.00
City Tax: To be paid directly at the hotel upon check-in

Hotel at a Seaside Resort on the Eastern Coast of Sicily (such as Letojanni, Giardini Naxos, or Catania):

½ DBL-BB (Shared Room): $105.00
Single Room: $176.00

City Tax: To be paid directly at the hotel upon check-in