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Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Sicily with the "Sicilian Escape" tour, exploring the island's rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin in Palermo, where you'll enjoy a welcome dinner and guided sightseeing of the Church of Immacolata and the Norman Cathedral in Monreale. Discover the ancient ruins of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento and marvel at the Roman mosaics in Piazza Armerina's Villa Romana del Casale. In Syracuse, explore Greek and Roman ruins before savoring a traditional arancino tasting in Catania. Experience the natural wonder of Mount Etna and enjoy a farewell dinner in the picturesque Taormina Riviera. With first-class accommodations in central locations and a small-group setting, this tour offers an intimate and enriching experience of Sicily's cultural treasures. ...more ...less
Highlights
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Explore the stunning mosaics of the Norman Cathedral in Monreale.
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Discover the ancient ruins of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
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Marvel at the Roman mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina.
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Visit the Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheater in Syracuse's Archaeological Park.
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Enjoy a traditional arancino tasting in Catania.
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Experience the natural wonder of Mount Etna, Europe's tallest volcano.
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Stroll through the charming town of Taormina with its breathtaking views.
Places You'll See
Old town of Cefalu, Sicily, Italy
Piazza San Domenico, Catania, Sicily
Port of Catania, Sicily
Taormina Town Hall, Public Garden Taormina.

Central Palace Hotel Federico II

Garibaldi

Della Valle

Grand Hotel Villa Politi

Hellenia Yachting Hotel
Itinerary
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Cultural tours in Italy Cultural tours Tours in Italy Ruins-Archaeology tours History tours Small Group tours Gardens & Nature tours Foodie and Wine toursDay 1: Arrive In Palermo,Italy
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Central Palace Hotel Federico II
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Palermo! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Palermo
Location: Palermo, Monreale
Accommodation Name: Central Palace Hotel Federico II
Meals Included: Breakfast
PALERMO Sicilian Specialties PALERMO Guided sightseeing includes the Church of Immacolata, and a visit to the cathedral. Drive up to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and visit the Norman Cathedral. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The story of the splendid Monreale cathedral starts when the Arabs took control of Palermo. They transformed the cathedral into a mosque and banished the Bishop of Palermo from town. Not wishing to venture too far from his beloved cathedral, the Bishop settled in a small village in the hills overlooking Palermo, the site of modern-day Monreale. There, he built a modest church to keep the flame of local Christian worship alive. Today the cathedral is known for its stunning mosaics that cover an area of over 64.500sq ft.
Day 3: Palermo,Agrigento
Location: Palermo, Agrigento
Accommodation Name: Della Valle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
PALERMO–AGRIGENTO Timeless Temples AGRIGENTO Take a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples. (B,D) 87 mi / 140 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGY The ruins of Akragas remain Sicily's most amazing archaeological site. The impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia sits in spectacular setting upon a ridge where it served as a beacon for homecoming sailors and today draws enthralled visitors to revel in the remarkable Valley of the Temples.
Day 4: Agrigento,Piazza Armerina,Syracuse
Location: Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Syracuse
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Villa Politi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
AGRIGENTO–PIAZZA ARMERINA–SYRACUSE Ancient Artistry In Sicily PIAZZA ARMERINA Take a guided visit of the Villa Romana del Casale with the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Enjoy lunch with regional specialties at a local restaurant. (B,L) 162 mi / 260 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Explore the extraordinary example of Roman power in one of the most luxurious villas of its kind in the Italian countryside. Marvel at the magnificently preserved mosaics that embellish the Villa Romana del Casale, designed and installed by African mosaic workers and the strength of the Roman influence and power throughout the Mediterranean region.
Day 5: Syracuse,Catania,Taormina Riviera
Location: Syracuse, Catania, Taormina
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYRACUSE–CATANIA–TAORMINA RIVIERA Coastal Treasures SYRACUSE Guided visit to the Greek and Roman ruins of the Archaeological Park features the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater.
CATANIA [LF] Arancino tasting and free time on the way to Taormina Riviera. (B) 75 mi / 120 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Sicily’s love affair with food goes back a long way. Cooking traditions originating from the Greeks, Arabs, and Normans blend with those from Spain and North Africa resulting in a fabulous melting pot of flavors and unique dishes. Celebrate this feast of cultures with a traditional arancino tasting one of Sicily’s most famous street food.
Day 6: Taormina Riviera
Location: Mount Etna, Taormina
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
TAORMINA RIVIERA The Pearl of the Mediterranean TAORMINA RIVIERA Guided excursion to Mount Etna. Orientation walk through Taormina town and free time. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDER Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano and one of the most active in the world. Learn how in 1669, an eruption that lasted 112 days developed a record long stream of lava that destroyed the city of Catania.
Day 7: Taormina Riviera
Location: Taormina
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (The nearest airport is Catania.)
What's Included
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Guided Sightseeing in Palermo
Guided sightseeing in Palermo includes the Church of Immacolata and a visit to the cathedral.
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Visit to Monreale
Drive up to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and visit the Norman Cathedral.
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Guided Walking Tour of the Valley of Temples
Take a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento.
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Guided Visit of Villa Romana del Casale
Take a guided visit of the Villa Romana del Casale with the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world.
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Guided Visit to Archaeological Park in Syracuse
Guided visit to the Greek and Roman ruins of the Archaeological Park features the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater.
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Arancino Tasting in Catania
Enjoy an arancino tasting, one of Sicily’s most famous street foods, in Catania.
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Guided Excursion to Mount Etna
Guided excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano and one of the most active in the world.
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Orientation Walk in Taormina
Orientation walk through Taormina town and free time.
What's Not Included
High Altitude Challenges
High altitudes may be challenging for some guests, especially during the ascent to Mount Etna which reaches an elevation of 6,500 ft. (1,981 m).
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Central Palace Hotel Federico II and Garibaldi in Palermo, Della Valle in Agrigento, Grand Hotel Villa Politi in Syracuse, and Hellenia Yachting Hotel in Taormina Riviera.
Meals
6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinner
Notes
High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. The ascent to Mount Etna reaches an elevation of 6,500 ft. (1,981 m).
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds. ...more ...less
UNESCO Sites
Arab-Norman cathedral of Monreale|Archeological area of Agrigento|Mount Etna|Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica|Villa Romana del Casale|Villa Romana del Casale (Piazza Armerina)
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of meals are included in the Sicilian Escape tour?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.
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Are there any high-altitude activities on this tour?
Yes, the ascent to Mount Etna reaches an elevation of 6,500 ft. (1,981 m), which may be challenging for some guests.
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What is the group size for the Sicilian Escape tour?
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select dates, limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure.
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What are some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites visited on this tour?
The tour visits several UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Arab-Norman cathedral of Monreale, the archaeological area of Agrigento, Mount Etna, Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica, and Villa Romana del Casale.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Agrigento?
In Agrigento, the highlight is a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples, which includes the impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia.
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What unique culinary experience is included in the tour?
The tour includes an arancino tasting in Catania, which is one of Sicily's most famous street foods.
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What can I expect during the visit to Mount Etna?
During the visit to Mount Etna, you will have a guided excursion to Europe's tallest and one of the most active volcanoes, learning about its history and impact on the region.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Reviews of this operator
Great Value for your Money
This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites. ...more ...less
My go-to escorted travel Co My...
My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.
What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus
Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon ...more ...less
Great guide, accommodations, and tours.
We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.
Globus exceeded my expectations!
This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.
The experience was amazing!!
The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!! ...more ...less
Did the Globus Highlands and...
Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both. ...more ...less
Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...
Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos. ...more ...less
I have done Newfoundland &...
I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market. ...more ...less
I really enjoyed my Cosmos...
I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed. ...more ...less
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Sicilian Escape
7 Days Starting in Palermo, Italy and ending in Taormina, Sicily, Italy
Visiting: Palermo, Monreale, Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Syracuse, Catania, Taormina, Mount Etna
Tour operator:
Tour code:
KIJ-2026
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Physical rating:
Medium
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
NB: Prices correct on 19-Mar-2025 but subject to change.
Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
Cultural tours in Italy Cultural tours Tours in Italy Ruins-Archaeology tours History tours Small Group tours Gardens & Nature tours Foodie and Wine tours