Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2025

Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2025

Rome

The famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy

Day 1
View of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Italy
Naples

View of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Italy

Days 2-3
View of Vesuvius from the forum in Pompeii, Italy
Pompeii

View of Vesuvius from the forum in Pompeii, Italy

Day 2
Idyllic Capri and its harbour landscape, Italy
Capri

Idyllic Capri and its harbour landscape, Italy

Day 3
View of Positano, located on the Amalfi Coast, Italy
Positano

View of Positano, located on the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Day 4
The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
Rome

The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Day 5
Palermo, Italy
Palermo

Palermo, Italy

Days 12-13

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$3310

$3152

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2025" tour, a captivating journey through Italy's most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin in the historic heart of Rome, then venture to Naples and the ancient city of Pompeii. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, with its stunning seascapes and a visit to a traditional lemon farm. Discover the allure of Capri and Positano before flying to Sicily, where you'll explore Catania's historic core, the dramatic landscapes of Taormina, and the ancient wonders of the Valley of the Temples. Conclude your adventure in Palermo, delving into its vibrant culture and rich history. With comfortable accommodations and a mix of guided experiences and free time, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Italy's diverse regions. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient city of Pompeii, perfectly preserved in volcanic ash.

  • Discover the glamorous seascapes of Capri and the Amalfi Coast.

  • Visit a lemon farm on the Amalfi Coast and learn about limoncello production.

  • Experience the UNESCO-listed historic core of Catania in Sicily.

  • Take a cable car in Taormina for stunning views and beach access.

  • Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Stroll through the historic streets of Palermo and learn about the anti-Mafia movement.

Places You'll See

St Peter's Basilica Over The Aelian Bridge, Rome, Italy

Sunset View Over Piazza Navona In Rome, Italy

Pompeii, Italy

Naples, Italy

View From Mount Solaro On The Island Of Capri, Italy

View Of Positano, Located On The Amalfi Coast, Italy

Itinerary

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Day 1: Start Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel Marc'Aurelio (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Rome! Once known as the 'capital of the world' this richly historic, passionate and elegant city will steal our hearts as soon as we arrive. We'll meet and greet our Contiki crew at 4pm and enjoy an included dinner this evening.

Day 2: Rome To Naples

Location: Pompeii, Naples

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vergilius Billia (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we're headed to another richly historical and cultural city, known for its naturally beautiful sights and excellent cuisine. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii, you'll have the option to partake in a guided walking tour of the fascinating Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius (and then perfectly preserved in volcanic ash!). Welcome to Naples, the rough & ready but oh so charming city which encapsulates everything we love about Italy. The home of pizza, a hub of culture, and a bundle of passionate Italian energy. Today we have the option to take a tour, learning about the city, its history and its food culture.

Day 3: Naples To Amalfi Coast Via Capri

Location: Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We're headed to the coast today to check out some of the most glamorous seascapes in Europe. Next up is Capri, with its gorgeous cragged coastline and opulent cafes. Its easy to see why this is such a playground for the rich and famous. An optional Capri cruise will let us check out plenty of swim stops to beat the heat. We'll settle on the Amalfi Coast after a day of postcard pretty sun bleached buildings and sparkling sea.

Day 4: Amalfi Coast (Including Positano)

Location: Amalfi Coast, Positano

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've got a free day on the Amalfi coast! Lucky us. Plus, there's an optional visit to a lemon farm, run by a local family whose ancestors introduced the crop (and have been care takers of an age old tradition ever since!). Here we learn how these huge, sunshine coloured fruits are harvested and turned into limoncello. We'll visit one of Amalfi's spectacular jewels today. Dramatic cliffs and idyllic buildings await us in picturesque Positano. You've got the entire evening for yourself. Roam the streets, taste some wine, live the Italian life we've all dreamed of.

Day 5: Amalfi Coast To Rome

Location: Amalfi Coast, Rome

Accommodation Name: Hotel Marc'Aurelio (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We're headed back to Rome today. Back in Rome for more historic spots, foodie shops and photo ops. Today, you'll have the option to head out to a local restaurant and make (and eat) your very own pasta. And even take a tour of Rome's most iconic monuments with a local guide.

Day 6: Rome To Catania

Location: Catania

Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Del Bosco (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we're hopping on a speedy flight to the incomparable isle of Sicily. This colourful cacophony of baroque piazzas and ancient ruins is the perfect place to get acquainted with Sicily. We'll have a chance to check out Catania's UNESCO listed historic core before an included dinner in a local restaurant. Can you taste the difference in Sicilian cuisine? It has to be up there...

Day 7: Catania To Taormina

Location: Catania, Taormina

Accommodation Name: Hotel Isabella (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've got more spectacular Sicilian towns to explore today, as we head from Catania to Taormina. Uniquely perched on the side of a mountain, this elegant resort town is the perfect place to live the good life in Italy. We'll waste no time admiring the gorgeous panoramas, as we take the cable car that connects the town's historic centre with its awesome beaches. After sunning ourselves for a bit, why not opt for a cooking class with some local masterchefs, learning how to whip up local delicacies like Arancini & Cannoli? It's the perfect way to impress everyone when you get back home.

Day 8: Taormina

Location: Mount Etna, Taormina

Accommodation Name: Hotel Isabella (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we've got an unmissable optional for you. Sicily’s stupendous stratovolcano Mt Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe. And what better way to experience this majestic monster than on an adrenaline filled ride, as you pass vineyards and orchards spread across the fertile slopes? You won’t find views quite like this anywhere in Europe. Whether or not you opt for the tour, you'll have a free afternoon to explore Taormina - lazing on the beach, checking out the Roman theatre or sitting and drinking a spritz as life lazily moves by. It's a hard life.

Day 9: Taormina To Syracuse Via Noto

Location: Taormina, Syracuse, Noto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Panorama (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

See ya, Taormina – it's time to visit some historical hotspots. Next stop, Syracuse. We’ll have some free time to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Syracuse. Famed for its rich ancient Roman and Greek history, with ancient amphitheatres and architecture everywhere you look, this place was even mentioned in the Bible (how's that for history creds?). Our next outing is to Noto, home to some of Sicily’s most impressive historic architecture. We’ll check out the Corso Vittoria Emanuele and other legendary landmarks, and then it’s off to an organic farm for a Tastes of Sicily experience – the freshest Sicilian ingredients, brought to us direct from farm to table. Just what the doctor ordered! And after a long day, it’s time to hit the hay. ’Til tomorrow, friends.

Day 10: Syracuse To Cefalù Via Valley Of The Temples

Location: Syracuse, Valley of the Temples, Cefalù

Accommodation Name: Hotel La Giara (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Heading from Syracuse we'll arrive in the Valley of the Temples, the perfect base to explore another ancient wonder... We won't be leaving Italy without visiting the Valley of the Temples. This mystical valley is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological heritage. We'll discover ancient temples, sanctuaries and a necropolis. It’s a spectacular testament to Sicily’s ancient history (and natural beauty). Arriving in Cefalù we'll enjoy another included dinner of Sicilian delicacies. What a day - and we're not done yet.

Day 11: Cefalù

Location: Cefalù

Accommodation Name: Hotel La Giara (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cefalu is a real gem, home to Sicily's best beaches and most impressive Arabic architecture. This truly is the island that keeps on giving. Today's all about coastal vibes, soaking up that sun, sea and sand - with plenty of water sports to get involved with. If you're feeling a little more zen, why not opt for the coastal cruise and soak up some scenery instead? Later on we'll stroll the winding cobbled streets and watch fishermen taking stock of the day's bounties, before exploring the town's foodie and nightlife scene. Ah, Sicily - sigh.

Day 12: Cefalù To Palermo

Location: Palermo

Accommodation Name: Ibis Styles President (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's time to end on a high, as we make our way towards Sicily's sizzling capital. Palermo is vivacious, colourful and boasts a thriving culinary scene, but it’s also been plagued by organised crime for decades. Today on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® experience, you can join a walking tour through the historic centre, learning about the history of the Mafia in Palermo and how the civil antiMafia movement was formed. We'll round things off with a farewell dinner at Al Fresco, AKA the 'bistro of second chances'.

Day 13: End Palermo

Location: Palermo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Time to head home after one final breakfast together. Hug it out, swap social details - and don't be sad, we'll see each other on the road again soon.

What's Included

  • Amalfi Coast Experience

    Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.

  • Capri Experience

    Chill on the beaches of this Mediterranean jewel and explore the famous boutiques.

  • Amalfi Coast Ferry Ride

    Live your best life like a local on a ferry as you glide through azure seas.

  • Positano Visit

    Ramble through the wisteria-lined streets and past sun-bleached houses.

  • Catania Exploration

    Stroll around the ancient Sicilian port at the foot of Mount Etna.

  • Taormina Experience

    Explore Greek and Roman ruins, sun-drenched beaches, and enjoy epic Italian food.

  • Noto Visit

    Float around this opulent Sicilian city, taking in the Baroque architecture.

  • Agrigento Valley of the Temples

    Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO-listed site.

  • Transport

    Travel through Italy and Sicily with a combination of coach transfers and a flight from Rome to Catania.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Optional Excursions

    Some optional activities and excursions may require an additional fee.

  • Personal Expenses

    Expenses for personal items and tips are not included.

  • Meals Not Listed

    Only selected meals are included; others will be at your own expense.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 12 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

  • London: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
  • Rome: Can arrangements be made for travellers with accessibility needs? If you require arrangements to be made for your accessibility needs, please inform your Trip Manager as soon as possible. We try our best to contact all accommodations and secure ground floor rooms for easy wheelchair access.Please remember that Italy can be physically challenging to get around. Coaches can’t access historical centers, and there will be lots of walking (on roads that are often uneven and cobbled). Travellers with accessibility needs will find this trip challenging.
  • Madrid: Do the included meals have a set menu? Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
  • Rome: When would be the best time to book tickets for museums and other attractions? This would depend on the museums & attractions you’re planning to visit. If you’d like to know the exact timings, please contact our 24x7 Helpline to access your day-to-day itineraries to check when you’ll have free time in each city.
  • Madrid: I need to refrigerate my medication. Can I do that on the coach? Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.

Included Experience

  • Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
  • Capri: Chill on the beaches of this Mediterranean jewel. Explore the famous boutiques then stop off for a Spritz in the sun.
  • Amalfi Coast: Live your best life like a local (on a ferry!) as you glide through azure seas, past cliffs filled with rainbow-coloured buildings.
  • Positano: Ramble through the wisteria-lined streets and past sun-bleached houses as you live La Dolce Vita. Don’t forget an iconic selfie with the village backdrop.
  • Catania: Stroll around the ancient Sicilian port at the foot of Mount Etna. See the Piazza Stesicoro and the Baroque and Renaissance buildings of Via dei Crociferi.
  • Catania: Time to take to the sky. Catania, here we come!
  • Taormina: Greek and Roman ruins. Sun-drenched beaches. Epic Italian food. There’s so much to do in this seaside town, you’ll never want to leave.
  • Noto: Float around this opulent Sicilian city, taking in the Baroque architecture and panoramic views as you go.
  • Agrigento: Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO-listed site featuring some of the world's most treasured Greek art and architecture.

Mode of Transport

Travel through Italy and Sicily with a combination of coach transfers and a flight from Rome to Catania. Enjoy scenic drives along the Amalfi Coast and explore the beautiful landscapes of Sicily with ease.

Accommodation

Stay in comfortable accommodations such as Hotel Marc'Aurelio in Rome, Hotel Vergilius Billia in Naples, and Grand Hotel Salerno on the Amalfi Coast. Experience the charm of Sicily with stays at Hotel Villa Del Bosco in Catania, Hotel Isabella in Taormina, and Hotel La Giara in Cefalù.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour includes a combination of coach transfers and a flight from Rome to Catania. There are also scenic drives along the Amalfi Coast and through the landscapes of Sicily.

  • What kind of accommodations can I expect on this tour?

    You will stay in comfortable accommodations such as Hotel Marc'Aurelio in Rome, Hotel Vergilius Billia in Naples, and Grand Hotel Salerno on the Amalfi Coast. In Sicily, you will experience the charm of Hotel Villa Del Bosco in Catania, Hotel Isabella in Taormina, and Hotel La Giara in Cefalù. ...more ...less

  • Are international flights included in the tour package?

    No, international flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included in the package.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    Travel insurance is not included in the tour package and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Are there any optional activities during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities such as a guided walking tour of Pompeii, a Capri cruise with swim stops, a visit to a lemon farm on the Amalfi Coast, and a cooking class in Taormina.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 4 dinners and 12 breakfasts. Some meals are included, while others will be at your own expense.

  • What is the focus of the tour in Palermo?

    In Palermo, the tour includes a walking tour through the historic center, learning about the history of the Mafia and the civil anti-Mafia movement. The tour concludes with a farewell dinner at Al Fresco, known as the 'bistro of second chances'.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future ...more ...less

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
$3310 $3152 (USD)

Operator discount: -$158 (USD)

Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2026

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 08, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$3310 $3152 (USD)

Operator discount: -$158 (USD)

Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2026

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
$3310 $3152 (USD)

Operator discount: -$158 (USD)

Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2026

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Italian Escape & Sicily | Classic | 2025

13 Days Starting in Rome, Italy and ending in Palermo, Italy

Visiting: Rome, Pompeii, Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Positano, Catania, Taormina, Mount Etna, Syracuse, Noto, Valley of the Temples, Cefalù, Palermo ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

BBIEMP20

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 31

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $3310 $3152 (USD) Operator discount: -$158

NB: Prices correct on 21-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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