Your Itinerary:

Day 0 – Departure September 13

Fly from the USA to Catania , Sicily.

Day 1 – Catania - September 14

Welcome to Sicily . Upon arrival in Catania , you will be transferred to your hotel and you will have time to rest up from your flight before meeting your guide and co-travelers for a welcome talk and dinner.

Sleep in Catania (D)

Day 2 - Taormina – September 15

This morning we will start our Sicilian adventure with a beautiful drive to Taormina , one of the pearls of the Mediterranean Sea . You will be able to unpack your bags in Taormina for several nights as you visit a beautiful and historic Greek theatre, walk along colourful cobble-stoned streets and hanging gardens and enjoy a true Sicilian classic: iced coffee with cream. Another feast awaits you tonight in a special local restaurant.

Sleep in Taormina (B, D)

Day 3 – Mount Etna – September 16

Today we will explore the amazing volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe . Learn about the many legends connected with its magic lava-crusted slopes, and enjoy fabulous views of the region before heading to a winery where you will savour local wines and food specialties.

Sleep in Taormina (B, L)

Day 4 – Eolie Islands – September 17

This morning we will depart from Taormina heading towards Milazzo where, weather permitting, we will catch a mini-cruise along the fascinating Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Vulcano. The town of Lipari , with its 16th century castle, is the largest and one of the oldest settlements on the islands. It was believed by the ancients that Lipari was the home of Aeolus, God of the Winds. From the sea you will then behold amazing white-sand beaches, the Lovers Cave and dramatic cliffs before heading to the hot sulphur waters and black-sand beaches of Vulcano. Lunch will of course be a fish feast worthy of a king.

Sleep in Taormina (B, L)

Day 5 – Cefalù and Palermo – September 18

Today we will leave Taormina and head towards Palermo , the elegant Queen of Sicily. En route we will stop to explore Cefalu, one of the nicest small cities of the island which is famous for both its amazing beaches and the beauty of its historical centre. We will also visit its imposing Norman Cathedral and the Arab lavatories, before getting on the road to reach Palermo in the early afternoon.

Sleep in Palermo (B, D)

Day 6 – Palermo – September 19

We will spend the full day visiting beautiful Palermo and its amazing Cathedral, the Palatine Chapel, Piazza Pretoria, the many narrow streets and alleys and market stalls packed with all sorts of merchandise. Tonight we will visit the exclusive and beautiful Palazzo Aiutamicristo where the Barons Calafati Canalotti will welcome you, tour you through their incredible palace and host you to a special dinner.

Sleep in Palermo (B, D)

Day 7 – Monreale and Erice – September 20

Any visit to Palermo must include a sightseeing journey to the "Conca d'Oro," a beautiful valley beyond Palermo itself, where we will stroll through the small hill town of Monreale . Here you will see the mosaics of the Norman Cathedral which are among the most extraordinary in Italy . This amazing monument is a dazzling mixture of Arab, Byzantine and Norman artistic styles all framed by traditional Romanesque architecture. Nowhere else on the planet can you find such a perfect blend of the Christian and Muslim artistic worlds of the 12th century.

In the afternoon we will drive to Erice, a delightful small medieval city nested on a 2,200-foot hill. Walking though its narrow streets you can make your way to a traditional pastry shop where you will sample some of the most amazing almond pastries you have ever had. But don't forget to try the Cannoli and the shop's famed Cassata! These delicious treats will augment the breathtaking views over the Egadi Islands below.

Sleep in Marsala (B,D)

Day 8 – Selinunte and the Salt Road – September 21

Today we will make our way to breathtaking Selinunte where we will enjoy amazing views of the sea and one of Europe 's largest archaeological parks.

Returning to our hotel we will stop to enjoy the views over the amazing Saline – the saltpans – and the windmills on the Salt Road , learning more about the history of this incredible tradition. Tonight we will try the sweet and smooth Marsala wine, while sampling some of the best desserts of the region.

Sleep in Marsala (B, D)

Day 9 – Agrigento – September 22

This morning you will depart for Agrigento , where you will visit the Ancient Valley of the Temples , one of the richest archaeological areas of the world. A passionate and knowledgeable art historian will tour you among the remains of approximately 20 ancient temples including the Temple of Concord , Castor, Pollux and Hercule. In the afternoon we will transfer to our countryside resort in the area of Noto.

Sleep near Noto (B, D)

Day 10 – Piazza Armerina and Noto – September 23

The Piazza Armerina and the Imperial Roman Villa of Casale are our destinations for the morning. Incredible mosaics decorate this famous 4th century hunting lodge. We will also stop in the countryside of Caltagirone for a wonderful ricotta tasting along with other delicious typical Sicilian products. In the late afternoon we will visit the baroque jewel of Noto, an amazing city built at the end of the 17th century after an earthquake destroyed Old Noto almost entirely.

Sleep near Noto (B, L, D)

Day 11 – Siracusa – September 24

As one of the paramount jewels of Sicily , Siracusa deserves a full day sightseeing. You will explore the beautiful Piazza del Duomo and the poetic Fonte Arethusa in the morning, and in the afternoon you will enjoy the amazing Archaeological Park of Neapolis, with its incredible Greek theatre, limestone quarries and the famous Ear of Dyonisus. Tonight you will have some down time to relax and soak in the beauty of Sicily at your own peace.

Sleep in Siracusa (B)

Day 12 – Giardino del Biviere and Siracusa – September 25

This morning we will have a relaxed departure for the renowned botanical garden of Giardino del Biviere , owned by the Prince and Princess Borghese. You will explore the garden and the House of the Borghese, and will then have a light lunch served al fresco in the company of the Princess Maria Carla. Next, you will enjoy a relaxed afternoon in Siracusa shopping, browsing and exploring, before heading to our farewell dinner. Sleep in Siracusa (B, L, D)

Day 13 – End of tour

This morning you can either start your extension in Siracusa, or you can travel to the airport of Catania for your flight back to the States.

Keep in mind that there are no direct flights from Catania to the USA so you may have to overnight in Rome . Please let M&G know about your flight plans. M&G staff is ready to help in any way , including arranging a post-night hotel and airport transfer in Rome should you need one. You will receive a pre and post trip registration form which you can fill out with your requests at least 60 days prior to your departure.

Have a nice flight back and see you in Italy again very soon!!

Your Journey:

1 night in Catania

3 nights in Taormina
2 nights in Palermo

2 nights in Marsala

2 nights in the Noto countryside

2 nights in Siracusa

Trip Facts:
13 days, 12 nights
US $ 3,895 per person in double room (land only)
US $ 680 single supplement

What 's included in your trip:

- Accommodation in carefully selected, centrally-located hotels and charming country inns

- All group transportation in a deluxe air-conditioned private bus

- Meals: all breakfasts, 9 dinners (3 to 5 courses with wine) including a reception in the historic Palace of Palermo , 4 lunches, including an al fresco lunch at Princess Borghese estate.

- 2 wine tastings

- pastry tastings

- ricotta cheese tasting

- boat mini-cruise (Lipari and Vulcano) - weather permitting*

- Tour leading by a professional tour leader and guide

Not included:

- International airfare to and from Italy

- Personal expenses

- Tips for drivers and guides

* If the weather does not allow us to participate in the cruise, we will arrange for alternate activities, including a cooking class that will teach us about the local specialties.