Highlights Of Southern Italy & Sicily
Highlights Of Southern Italy & Sicily
$2395
Highlights Of Southern Italy & Sicily
10 Days Starting and ending in Rome
Visiting: Rome, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Matera, Alberobello, Taormina, Syracuse, Agrigento, Cefalù, Palermo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ITS
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 51
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Experience the allure of Southern Italy's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic marvels on this unforgettable tour. Dive into ancient Rome's wonders, behold the grandeur of Mount Vesuvius, and wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii. Enjoy free days exploring the Amalfi Coast, Taormina, and Palermo at your own pace. Witness the unique Trulli houses in Alberobello and the ancient cave city of Matera. Immerse yourself in the local flavours and make lasting memories with new friends!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Of Tour In Rome
Location: Rome, Rome
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Rome! Settle in at the hotel and meet up with your tour leader who will be with you for the duration of the tour. Meet your fellow travellers as your tour leader gives you an overview of the upcoming itinerary. Then, embark on an orientation tour of the city. See top attractions such as the Spanish Steps and the Piazza Navona before enjoying some free time to explore on your own. A welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included this evening.
Orientation tour of Rome:Â Get acquainted with the enchanting city of Rome on an orientation tour of Rome with your tour guide. Admire the Spanish Steps, walk to the Piazza Navona to see the Fountain of the Quattro Fiumi) and learn about other attractions that make Rome a perennial favourite with travellers all over the world!
Welcome dinner:Â Join your tour leader and tour group for a welcome dinner. Celebrate the first night of tour with some delicious Italian food at a local Roman restaurant.
Day 2: Rome - Pompeii - Amalfi Coast
Location: Rome, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Rome after breakfast, and travel to the Amalfi Coast. En route, stop off to see Mount Vesuvius, and to explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii; destroyed in 79AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption. Enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site before sitting down for an included lunch. Afterwards, travel onwards to tonight’s hotel in the Amalfi Coast. Arrive in Salerno, where we have a two-night stay. This area is famous for limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur); the perfect way to finish off your evening!
See Mount Vesuvius and explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii:Â Preserved since ancient times under metres of ash and pumice, Pompeii offers superb insights into life (and death) in the ancient Roman Empire. An expert local guide will accompany and introduce you to the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was destroyed in 79 AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption.
Day 3: Amalfi Coast: Free Day
Location: Amalfi Coast
Meals Included: Breakfast
Made up of a number of gorgeous old towns hugging the coastline, the Amalfi Coast is our base for the day. Explore the towns and stunning beaches in your own time. Alternatively, choose our optional excursion to the famous and exceptionally beautiful Isle of Capri. Here, enjoy an orientation tour before spending some free time exploring the rugged coastline, ancient Roman ruins and stylish piazzas. Top the day trip off with a boat trip around the islands and its breathtaking grottos. It is sure to be an unforgettable day in the south of Italy!
Day 4: Amalfi Coast - Matera - Alberobello
Location: Amalfi Coast, Matera, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, it is time to head east and explore the southern Italian region of Apulia, making a stop along the way in the ancient cave city of Matera. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), it is famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts; the ‘Sassi’. Arrive in Alberobello, and enjoy an orientation tour of the region's famous ‘trulli’ houses. These beautiful 14th century whitewashed stone huts have iconic conical roofs, and are specific to the Itria Valley. This afternoon, enjoy free time to further explore Alberobello. Great places to see include the trullo church of St Antony, and the Trulli museum. Find a beautiful spot to enjoy dinner this evening before returning to the hotel for the night.
Stop over in the ancient cave city of Matera: Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), it is famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts; the ‘sassi’.
Walking tour of Alberobello: Discover the area’s beautiful 14th century whitewashed stone huts that have iconic conical roofs, and are specific to the Itria Valley, with a local guide.
Day 5: Alberobello - Taormina
Location: Alberobello, Taormina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a coastal drive along the Ionian Sea this morning. Soon, it is time to head back to the mainland, and enjoy a short ferry ride over to the island of Sicily; home of Mount Etna. Prepare for stunning views while on the way to Taormina. Arrive, and enjoy an orientation walking tour of this hilltop town. Keep an eye out for some of the highlights you can explore further on your free day tomorrow. This evening, top off the Sicilian experience with an included dinner at the beachside hotel.
Ferry ride to Sicily:Â Take a ferry ride to the island of Sicily; the home of Mount Etna.
Orientation walk of Taormina: Your tour guide will take the group on an orientation tour of this charming hilltop town. See top sights including the historic Porta Catania and the Villa Comunale. Explore more attractions on the free day tomorrow!
Dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina:Â Join the group for a lovely dinner at a restaurant overlooking the ocean.
Day 6: Taormina: Free Day
Location: Taormina
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to relax on Taormina's beautiful beaches, or explore the charming hilltop town which is one of Italy’s most popular summer destinations. For those looking to explore further afield, why not embark on a day trip to Mount Etna? This is one of the tour’s top optional excursions and perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure. Take a cable car and a 4x4 to the top station, walk in the volcanic ash and learn more about the volcano from the local guides. After, indulge in a feast of local produce at a charming enoteca. This evening, choose to enjoy a sunset cruise and swim in Taormina’s crystal clear waters!
Day 7: Taormina - Syracuse - Agrigento
Location: Taormina, Syracuse, Agrigento
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a drive through the heart of Sicily today, and be charmed by the gorgeous Sicilian scenery en route. Along the way, make a stop in Syracuse, an ancient town on the southeast coast of Sicily that was built in ancient Greek times. Syracuse is home to an excellent food market, making it a perfect spot to grab lunch. Then, drive the final stretch for the day to ‘Valle dei Templi’ (Valley of the Temples); one of the most outstanding examples of Magna Grecia art and architecture. Enjoy a guided sunset tour with an expert local guide. Spend the night in the hilltop city of Agrigento.
Visit Syracuse:Â The historically significant Sicilian city of Syracusa (as the locals call it) is located on the southeast coast of Sicily. Syracuse was originally a Greek colony, and today is home to a number of Greek remains like a Greek theatre that dates back to the 5th Century BC. You will be transported back in time as you meander cobbled lanes, pavement cafes and baroque architecture. While here, shop locally-grown pistachios, almonds and sun-dried pachino (tomatoes).
Explore the Valley of the Temples: The ‘Valle dei Templi’ is a national monument of Italy, and archaeological site in Agrigento. The Valley includes the remains of seven temples built in the Doric style. It is famous for being home to incredible examples of Magna Grecia art and architecture.
Day 8: Agrigento - Cefalù - Palermo
Location: Agrigento, Cefalù, Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving Agrigento this morning, take a scenic drive through central Sicily and arrive in the town of Cefalù. Cefalù is a historic town that boasts some of Italy’s finest beaches. Here, enjoy free time to explore or join the locally guided tour which includes lunch at a local restaurant. Next, travel on to Palermo. Arrive in the afternoon, and enjoy a walking tour that will introduce you to the city’s highlights. Founded more than 2,700 years ago by the Phoenicians, Palermo is noted for its history, culture, architecture and food. Top sights on the walking tour include the Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate) and the Cathedral of Palermo. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
Visit Cefalù: Travel to the historic city of Cefalù where you have free time to find a place to enjoy lunch. This coastal city is famous for its incredible beaches as well as its Norman cathedral complete with soaring towers and Byzantine mosaics.
Walking tour of Palermo:Â Follow your guide, and look out for popular attractions like the Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate) and the Cathedral of Palermo.
Day 9: Palermo: Free Day
Location: Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to further explore Sicily’s capital; Palermo! Over the centuries, Palermo has been colonised by many different rulers, including the Greeks, Romans and Normans. This melting pot has resulted in a variety of architectural styles for you to explore in its historic old town. Be sure to visit Italy’s largest opera theatre which is widely considered the city’s most beautiful building! Palermo is also renowned for its delicious cuisine and irresistible dishes like arancini and cannoli. To try some of these delectable treats at two of Palermo’s most vibrant markets, join today’s optional excursion! This evening, take an overnight ferry back to the Italian mainland.
Day 10: End Of Tour In Rome
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
After your overnight ferry, arrive in Naples and board the coach for the return journey to Rome, where the tour concludes this afternoon. Please note that the ferry times may differ throughout the year and take this into account when booking your outbound flight. Bid farewell to Italy, your newfound friends, and Expat Explore, who wish you safe travels and future adventures!
What's Included
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Accommodation
8 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
1 night's accommodation in twin share ferry cabin with private bathrooms -
Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Overnight ferry from Palermo to Naples
Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days) -
Meals
9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners
*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request -
Tour Leader
Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
What's Not Included
International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.
All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.
Mode of Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Overnight ferry from Palermo to Naples
Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days)
Accommodation
8 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
1 night's accommodation in twin share ferry cabin with private bathrooms
Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
Experiences
Orientation tour of Rome
Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome
See Mount Vesuvius; an ancient volcano
Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii
Visit Matera; an ancient cave city
Explore Alberobello; famous for its conical houses
Catch a ferry from mainland Italy to Sicily
Discover Taormina; a hilltop town in Sicily
Dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina
Visit Syracuse; a historic Sicilian city
Explore the Valley of the Temples
Check out our Q&As
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included.
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.
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Are flights included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All our tours are conducted in English.
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.
In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test -
Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes, As detailed in the itinerary
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
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What is the maximum group size?
It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.
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What is the tipping policy?
Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide. Expat Explore crew members
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.
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Children on tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc
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Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.