Sicilian Escape

Sicilian Escape

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7 Days From

$1558

$1298

Sicilian Escape

7 Days Starting in Palermo, Italy and ending in Taormina Riviera, Italy

Visiting: Palermo, Agrigento, Syracuse, Taormina, Taormina Riviera

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

KIJX-2024

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Walking

From: $1558 $1298 Operator discount: -$260 -17%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Sicily with the "Sicilian Escape" tour, a cultural adventure that immerses you in the island's rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin in Palermo, where you'll explore the Church of Immacolata and the Norman Cathedral in Monreale. Discover the ancient ruins of Agrigento's Valley of Temples and marvel at the Roman mosaics in Piazza Armerina's Villa Romana del Casale. In Syracuse, visit the Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheater before savoring a traditional arancino in Catania. Conclude your trip with a guided excursion to Mount Etna and a farewell dinner in Taormina Riviera. Enjoy first-class accommodations in Palermo, Agrigento, Syracuse, and Taormina Riviera, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.

Highlights

  • Welcome dinner in Palermo

  • Guided sightseeing in Palermo including the Church of Immacolata and the cathedral

  • Visit to the Norman Cathedral in Monreale with panoramic views

  • Guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento

  • Visit to Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina with its Roman mosaics

  • Guided visit to the Greek and Roman ruins in Syracuse

  • Excursion to Mount Etna and orientation walk through Taormina town

Places You'll See

Garibaldi

Della Valle

Grand Hotel Villa Politi

Hellenia Yachting Hotel

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Palermo,Italy

Location: Palermo

Accommodation Name: Garibaldi

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Palermo! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel.
ARRIVE IN PALERMO, ITALY Welcome to Palermo! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel. (D)


PALERMO-PIAZZA.jpg

Day 2: Palermo

Location: Palermo

Accommodation Name: Garibaldi

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.


MONREAL-CATHEDRAL.jpg

Day 3: Palermo,Agrigento

Location: 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.


AGRIGENTO.jpg

Day 4: Agrigento,Piazza Armerina,Syracuse

Location: 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.


PIAZZA-ARMERINA-VILLA-ROMANA-DEL-CASALE.jpg

Day 5: Syracuse,Catania,Taormina Riviera

Location: Syracuse

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.


CATANIA-ARANCINO.jpg

Day 6: Taormina Riviera

Location: 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.


TAORMINA-MOUNT-ETNA.jpg

Day 7: Taormina Riviera

Location: Taormina Riviera

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (The nearest airport is Catania.)
TAORMINA RIVIERA Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (The nearest airport is Catania.) (B)


TAORMINA-TOWN.jpg

What's Included

  • Welcome Dinner

    A welcome dinner at the hotel in Palermo on the first day.

  • Guided Sightseeing in Palermo

    Includes visits to the Church of Immacolata, the cathedral, and the Norman Cathedral in Monreale.

  • Guided Walking Tour of the Valley of Temples

    A guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento.

  • Guided Visit to Villa Romana del Casale

    A guided visit to the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, including lunch with regional specialties.

  • Guided Visit to Archaeological Park in Syracuse

    Includes visits to the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater.

  • Arancino Tasting

    An arancino tasting in Catania.

  • Guided Excursion to Mount Etna

    A guided excursion to Mount Etna, including an orientation walk through Taormina town and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Daily Breakfast

    Breakfast is included every morning.

  • Selected Dinners and Lunches

    Includes selected dinners and lunches as specified in the itinerary.

  • First-Class Accommodation

    Accommodation in first-class hotels in Palermo, Agrigento, Syracuse, and Taormina Riviera.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and tips are not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers are not included unless specified.

UNESCO Sites

Arab-Norman cathedral of Monreale|Archeological area of Agrigento|Mount Etna|Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica|Villa Romana del Casale

Accommodation

Palermo: Garibaldi, Agrigento: Della Valle, Syracuse: Grand Hotel Villa Politi, Taormina Riviera: Hellenia Yachting Hotel

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.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes guided sightseeing and transportation between locations such as Palermo, Agrigento, Syracuse, and Taormina Riviera.

Notes

High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. The ascent to Mount Etna reaches an elevation of 6,500 ft. (1,981 m).

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of welcome can I expect upon arrival in Palermo?

    Upon arrival in Palermo, you will meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel at 6 pm.

  • What are some of the key sites visited in Palermo?

    In Palermo, the guided sightseeing includes the Church of Immacolata and a visit to the cathedral. You will also drive up to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and visit the Norman Cathedral.

  • What will I see in Agrigento?

    In Agrigento, you will take a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples, which includes the impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia.

  • What is special about the Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina?

    The Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina is known for having the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. It is an extraordinary example of Roman power and luxury.

  • What unique culinary experience is included in Catania?

    In Catania, you will have an arancino tasting, which is one of Sicily’s most famous street foods. This experience celebrates Sicily’s rich culinary traditions influenced by Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Spaniards, and North Africans.

  • What activities are planned in Taormina Riviera?

    In Taormina Riviera, you will have a guided excursion to Mount Etna, an orientation walk through Taormina town, and free time. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

  • How does the tour conclude?

    The tour concludes with breakfast in the morning at Taormina Riviera. The nearest airport for departure is in Catania.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

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

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • 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.

  • 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.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

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.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

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.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

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

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

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.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

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!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

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.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

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.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

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.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

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.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Nov 17, 2024 - Nov 23, 2024
$1558 $1298

Operator discount: -$260

Sunday - Saturday

Nov 24, 2024 - Nov 30, 2024
$1558

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

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