Sicily & Malta Tour

Arrive and make your own way to the hotel in the city of Catania. Overnight at Il Principe Hotel, Romano House Hotel or similar.

After breakfast visit Syracuse, the greatest Greek colony in Sicily and a World Heritage Site. The visit will start with the Archaeological Park of Neapolis with its Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, Latomie of Paradise, and Ear of Dionysius. Continue to the splendid Ortigia, a small island which is the historical centre of Syracuse. In Ortigia admire the beautiful Cathedral which dominates the square with its authoritative presence. From Piazza Duomo you will reach a wide terrace on the waterfront surrounding the famous Arethusa’s Fountain, one of the most famous freshwater sources of the Greek world. Free time for lunch. Depart for Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque, famous for its fine buildings of the early 18th century and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will visit Palazzo Nicolaci Villadorata, beautiful noble residence in Baroque style and once the residence of Don Giacomo Nicolaci, a patron of the arts. Continue to Ragusa for dinner and overnight at Mediterraneo Palace Hotel or similar. (B, D)

After breakfast visit Ragusa and its historical centre cradle of Sicilian Baroque. In the past used as a location of the popular TV series “Police Inspector Montalbano” this ancient town is a home to more than 50 churches and many other architectural treasures and is also one of 44 Italian World Heritage Sites. The tour then continues towards Modica, a charming town with tiny streets. Here you will stop at ‘Sabadi’, one of the most renowned chocolate manufactures and will have an opportunity to enjoy a multi sensorial chocolate tasting. We will then reach Piazza Armerina where we will admire the splendid polychrome mosaics of the famous Villa Romana del Casale, World Heritage Site. The complex includes some of the most extensive and most beautiful Roman mosaics known. Continuing to Agrigento for dinner and overnight at Baia Di Ulisse Wellness & Spa. (B, L, D)

After breakfast visit the famous Valley of the Temples, a jewel recognised by UNESCO. Here you can admire the Temples of Juno, Concord and Hercules. Continue on to Marsala, known for Garibaldi’s landing. Strolling through the historic center, you’ll be captivated by elegant palaces and baroque landmarks. Enjoy some wine tastings before a light lunch accompanied by wines. Next, explore the picturesque Salt Road, with views of the Stagnone Islands and ancient salt pans, among the oldest in the world and still active today. Arrive in Palermo this evening and overnight at Mecure Palermo Centro, Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal or similar. (B, L)

Depart for Monreale to visit the magnificent Arab-Norman Cathedral, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and the majestic Cloister. Return to Palermo for a visit to the Cathedral, a striking fusion of Gothic, Baroque, and Norman influences. Admire the beauty of the Martorana Church and the splendour of the Palatine Chapel, both richly decorated with golden mosaics. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties. In the afternoon, stroll through Palermo’s historic center to see the Teatro Massimo, one of Europe’s largest opera houses, and the elegant Pretoria Fountain. Overnight at Mecure Palermo Centro, Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal or similar. (B, L)

The day begins with a visit to the charming seaside village of Cefalù, known for its impressive Norman Cathedral. Enjoy free time to wander the cobbled streets of the old town or explore the Mandralisca Museum. In the afternoon, depart for Catania. Enjoy a walk in the historic center, characterised by its unique late-Baroque style and use of Etna’s lava stone. Stroll through Duomo Square to admire the Cathedral  of Sant’Agata and the iconic lava stone Elephant, the symbol of the city. Dinner at leisure and overnight at Il Principe Hotel, Romano House Hotel or similar. (B, L)

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a brief visit to Catania’s lively fish market, the “Pescheria.” Then, depart for an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano (3,350 m). Its dramatic lunar landscape offers stunning views and a memorable experience. The Etna Park, covers 59.000 hectares and is home to extremely varied and rich flora, along with many protected species. At Rifugio Sapienza, visit the “Crateri Silvestri,” two ancient craters inactive since 1888. During the visit, sample artisanal honey and other local products. Next, continue to Taormina, renowned for its natural beauty and historic charm. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant in the old town, savouring regional specialties. Explore the magnificent Greco-Roman Theatre, boasting spectacular views of the sea and Mount Etna. Take free time to stroll Taormina’s picturesque streets, browse local craft shops, or simply relax and soak in the town’s unique atmosphere. Return to Catania for dinner at leisure and overnight at Il Principe Hotel, Romano House Hotel or similar. (B, L)

After breakfast, free time to discover the city centre of Catania. According to flights’ schedule, private transfer to the airport and direct flight to Malta. The tour continues now without the tour leader. Arrive to Malta and private transfer to the hotel. Dinner at leisure and overnight in Hotel Argento St Julians, Seashells Resort at Suncrest or similar. (B)

Today options of 2 tours. Full day excursion with driver and guide to discover the beauty of this magical Island. Start with Cottonera and continue to visit the fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Free time to stroll along the streets of the city centre and browse among the stalls of the famous local market. Continuing you will visit the town of Wied iz-Zurrieq where you will embark on a sea excursion towards the famous Blue Grotto. Your tour will continue in the direction of Dingli through the Maltese countryside. Return transfer to hotel included. Dinner at leisure and overnight at Hotel Argento St Julians, Seashells Resort at Suncrest or similar

After breakfast you will be transferred to Bugibba, where you will board a comfortable boat for a fantastic mini cruise. Sailing through the north of the Maltese coast to the island of Comino; you will stop at the famous Blue Lagoon for about an hour. Afterwards you will reach Gozo for a visit of about 3 hours, discovering the most charming places of the island. At the end of tour, you will return on board to circumnavigate Comino and visit the famous caves. Return to Bugibba at late afternoon. Transfer to your hotel and overnight at Hotel Argento St Julians, Seashells Resort at Suncrest or similar. (B)

After breakfast in hotel, half day excursion to discover the treasures of Valletta. Visit the wonderful Casa Rocca Piccola. Then visit the Cathedral of St. John where you will admire the beautiful “Beheading of St. John the Baptist” and the Barraca Gardens. Later visit the Grand Master’s Palace. Your tour continues on to Mdina, the former capital of Malta. You will visit the Cathedral of St. Paul and then free time to walk along its lovely streets. Transfer to your hotel. Free afternoon. Overnight at Hotel Argento St Julians, Seashells Resort at Suncrest or similar. (B

After breakfast make your own way to the airport. (B)