PALERMO, AGRIGENTO, SYRACUSE, NOTO, TAORMINA
Gourmet & Wine, History & Culture, Nature & Wildlife
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean basin, a fascinating wealth of flamboyant Arabo-Norman cathedrals, stunning galleries and the best collection of Greek temples outside Greece, complemented with gorgeous natural landscapes such as the mighty Mount Etna volcano and pristine beaches and coves against the backdrop of pretty villages and mountains. It’s no wonder that it has seven UNESCO Heritage sites!
We start in the provincial capital Palermo, with its wealth of historical landmarks in the region from Byzantine churches, ancient theatres, and the fascinating salt pans. Then move inland to the impressive Valley of the Temples, and then to the east coast to explore the Greek ruins of Syracuse, and marvel at the gorgeous Baroque architecture of the southeast. End the trip in Taormina to pay homage to Mount Etna, with an exciting 4×4 jeep ascend to Europe’s greatest volcano.
Upon arrival, be met and transfer to your hotel. (Early check in subject to hotel’s availability). Enroute, visit Monreale, famous for its beautiful position overlooking the city of Palermo. Inside the Cathedral of Monreale, admire amazing mosaics representing stories from Old and New Testament, made by Byzantine artists.
This afternoon, enjoy a half-day guided tour of Palermo, the regional and provincial capital of Sicily. It is one of the World’s most splendid cities with its unique and charming Afro, Arab and Italian blend of architecture. Visit the old town of the city with the Royal Palace, the Palatine Chapel and the Cathedral.
This morning, embark on a walking street food tour through the main squares and street markets of the city centre to sample the best and authentic Palermitan street food. Palermitan street food is worldwide renowned not only for its unique flavours but also for its large variety. We find places only visited by locals and discover the hidden artistic gems of Palermo.
After lunch, drive to Cefalu (approx. 70km, 1hr), a former fishing village with a beautiful setting. Here, visit the Romanesque Cathedral and the museum that houses Antonello’s masterpiece of “Portrait of an Unknown Man”.
This morning, drive 1 hour to Segesta (approx. 80km, 1hr) to admire its temple and theatre. Afterwards, arrive to the medieval village of Erice (approx. 45km, 45min) perched on the top of a hill, and walk along the tiny and characteristic streets. Your last stop of the day is Trapani (approx. 10km, 20min) to visit the working salt windmills before returning to Palermo in evening.
Today, we travel to Agrigento. Enroute to Agrigento, take a short break at Scala dei Turchi (approx. 150km, 2hrs), a unique beach known for their chalky white cliff.
Continue to Agrigento (approx. 15km, 20min) and explore the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site – Temple of Hercules, Zeus, Hera, Concordia, Dioscuri and more.
Leave Agrigento today for the interior of Sicily to Villa Romana in Piazza Armerina (approx. 110km, 1.5hrs drive), well known for its 63 room-villa built in Roman times in splendid mosaics.
Continue onwards for 2hrs to Syracuse – one of the great ancient capital of Western civilization. Some important sites that we will visit includes the Neapolis Archaeological Park, as well as Ortigia, well known for the ruins of the earliest Greek constructions.
Today we will explore the south-east of Sicily, through the late Baroque Towns, whose heritage, both for importance and beauty, has been declared World Heritage by the UNESCO. Our first stop is at Noto (approx. 40km, 40min) at the foot of the Iblean Mountains and a grand ancient baroque town. A tour of Noto might start from the main square where to visit Palazzo Ducezio, Palazzo Vescovile, Palazzo Lanolina, the Church of San Domenico and, of course, the town’s magnificent Cathedral – to name but a few of the many buildings worth visiting in Noto. Next, transfer to Ragusa (approx. 55km, 1hr) to explore the magnificent Church of San Giorgio, the Hyblean Gardens, the Church of San Giuseppe, and La Rocca Palace.
We drive on to Taormina (approx. 170km, 2hr 15min) where you will spend the night.
Today, we take a morning excursion to the volcano Etna, known as the highest mountain in Europe at 3,340 meters, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. Along the way, pass by small charming villages with different zones of vegetation. Visit Valle del Bove, part of the protected area of the Etna Regional Park, walking through old lava flows to panoramic viewpoints to admire the majesty of the valley and Ionian Coast, visiting the craters of the Sartorius Mountains.
End your day in Taormina and take a city tour. From the Greek theatre, you will be able to see a blend of architectural influences of old Greek, Roman and Etna. Look out over the magnificent Bay of Naxos and Mt Etna before visiting the Palazzo Corvaja. This palace, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, represents several different architectural styles: Arab, Gothic and Norman. The main street Corso Umberto is an excellent place to visit interesting boutiques.
After breakfast, a transfer will be arranged to Catania Airport for your departure flight (approx. 55km, 50min).
Palazzo Natoli • Villa Athena • Grand Hotel Minareto • Grand Hotel Miramare
This refined boutique hotel in Palermo’s city centre is an intimate affair, housed in a charming former noble residence. Its 9 rooms are full of character, contemporary furnishings blends effortlessly with its classical environment. It’s steps from Palermo Cathedral and an excellent base to explore the city’s bustling markets and historic landmarks.
(Renovated: 2018; Rooms: 9)
In an astounding position within a stone’s throw of the Temple of Concordia (which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Valley of Temples), this 300-year-old villa has a delightful collection of rooms and suites tastefully decorated in designer fabrics and furnishings, set in landscaped gardens with a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool and wellness centre.
(Renovated: 2009; Rooms: 27)
Located on a rocky promontory in the Plemmirio Nature Reserve surrounded by lush vegetation and direct access to pristine beaches, yet only a 10min water taxi ride across to bustling Ortigia. Rooms are set across sprawling grounds with their own balcony and terraces, and there is a restaurant and private spa on site.
(Renovated: 2013; Rooms: 96)
Lush greenery surrounds this charming traditional hotel, an old noble villa with panoramic views of the Gulf of Taormina. It’s an oasis set away from the bustle of the city centre, with an outdoor pool to relax with an aperitif after a day of sightseeing, before a short walk to the restaurants and nightlife of the historic core.
(Renovated: 1992; Rooms: 63)
Grand Hotel et des Palmes • Villa Athena • Algila Hote • Hotel Metropole Taormina
Take a step back in time at this prestigious hotel that has been recently restored to its former glorious days, an icon of the Liberty style and romanticism using rich fabrics paired with elegant clean lines and classy furniture. The F&B establishments pay tribute to Sicilian gastronomic tradition, with a gourmet restaurant and chic mixology bar.
(Renovated: 2020; Rooms: 98)
In an astounding position within a stone’s throw of the Temple of Concordia (which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Valley of Temples), this 300-year-old villa has a delightful collection of rooms and suites tastefully decorated in designer fabrics and furnishings, set in landscaped gardens with a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool and wellness centre.
(Renovated: 2009; Rooms: 27)
Take refuge in this boutique hotel which is housed in two former historic palaces, proudly displaying its historic arches and carved keystones that has been restored to their former glory while being furnished with a blend of traditional and contemporary furnishings to create cozy and elegant spaces.
(Opened: 2007; Rooms: 54)
Right in the heart of Taormina main drag, Corso Umberto, this classy hotel is perfect for hitting the restaurants, shops and nightlife in Taormina. It boasts of incredible views over the Mediterranean sea, with modern furnishings complementing the elegant building which was once an ancient palace.
(Renovated: 2005; Rooms: 25)
Grand Hotel Villa Igiea • Villa Athena • Ortea Palace • Grand Hotel Timeo
Discover history, majesty and serenity at this restored Art Nouvea villa of a noble family. The newest property of the luxurious Rocco Forte hotel group, this Palermo landmark features elegant guestrooms that has welcomed royalty, dignitaries and Hollywood luminaries - trace their paths through meticulously kept gardens with a year round display of fragrant Mediterranean flora.
(Renovated: 2005; Rooms: 121)
In an astounding position within a stone’s throw of the Temple of Concordia (which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Valley of Temples), this 300-year-old villa has a delightful collection of rooms and suites tastefully decorated in designer fabrics and furnishings, set in landscaped gardens with a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool and wellness centre.
(Renovated: 2009; Rooms: 27)
Once a Mussolini-era post office, today, this impressive grand building has been converted into an opulent hotel with light-filled rooms. It’s just steps to the trendy bars and restaurants of Ortiga as well as the bustling Ortiga market.
(Renovated: 2018; Rooms: 75)
Formerly a magnificent patrician residence house, this legendary hotel occupies an unbeatable position in the city's historic centre directly opposite Taormina's legendary Greek Theater. Each of the beautifully appointed bedroom opens out on to its own private terrace.
(Renovated: 2012; Rooms: 70)
Kindly call us at (852) 2885 2181 if you require any immediate assistance.
Call us at (852) 2885 2181 or email us at enquiry@intriqjourney.com to start planning for a holiday that is completely tailored to your preferences.
Contact Us
