Sicilian Wonders

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Palermo, Sicily.

Benvenuto! Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a representative of Mayflower Cruises and Tours and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to begin exploring the local surroundings. This evening, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for dinner at the hotel. Meal: D

Begin the day with a discovery of Palermo, home to Byzantine mosaics, Arabesque domes, and frescoed cupolas. During the tour of this capital city, stroll through the city center with your local guide to experience the rich blend of architectural styles and cultural influences. Pass the Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, Teatro Massimo and the lively local markets that capture Palermo’s authentic spirit. Journey to Monreale and visit its UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture. Your guide will explain the symbolism, craftsmanship and historical significance of its exquisite Byzantine golden mosaics, considered to be the most magnificent in the world. Return to Palermo for the remainder of the day at leisure. Meal: B

Today’s adventure takes you to northern Sicily to discover two of its most picturesque towns. Upon arrival in Castelbuono, a charming medieval village nestled in the Madonie Mountains, your local guide walks you through the winding alleyways of the historic center. See the imposing Ventimiglia Castle and learn about the town’s long-standing traditions and renowned local crafts. Continue to the coastal town of Cefalù. After free time for lunch on your own, enjoy a guided walk through the medieval streets and along the scenic waterfront. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cefalù Cathedral, celebrated for its breathtaking Norman mosaics, is sure to be a highlight of the day. Return to Palermo for the evening at leisure. Meal: B

Departing Palermo, enjoy a scenic drive en-route to Agrigento. Upon arrival, a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples, one of the country’s most historical attractions, showcases an outstanding example of Magna Graecia art and architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses the ruined ancient city of Akragas and is highlighted by the stunningly well-preserved Doric Tempio della Concordia, one of several ridge-top temples, resembling the Parthenon in Athens. Enjoy a light lunch at a local farm, featuring authentic Sicilian products and dishes, before arriving at the hotel. Meals: B, L

Depart Agrigento and journey by coach along Sicily’s southern and eastern coastline toward Giardini Naxos. En-route, visit Syracuse for a guided walking tour in the old town of Ortygia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ‘historical heart of Syracuse’. See the ruins of the Greek Temple of Apollo from the 6th century BC – one of the first Greek temples built in Syracuse. Learn the mythological legend of the Arethusa Fountain, a freshwater spring overlooking the Great Harbor, and see the city’s Cathedral. You’ll have time to browse in the local shops before continuing to the hotel in Giardini Naxos for dinner and overnight. Meals: B, D

Depart the hotel by coach for a beautiful drive through the rugged and fertile countryside to Mount Etna – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Ascend by coach to the base station Rifugio Sapienza at approximately 5900 feet. Board the cable car to reach the now extinct ‘Monti Silvestri Craters’. Admire a variety of landscapes created over the centuries that now represent a distinctive place where nature, culture and history combine. After visiting the volcano, a unique lunch experience is in store. Arrive at a winery on the slopes of Mount Etna where a lunch of regional dishes paired with Etna’s volcanic wines is served in a stunning setting. After a relaxing lunch, return to the hotel in Giardini Naxos for the remainder of the day at leisure. Meals: B, L

The final day takes you to the hilltop town of Taormina. With sweeping views of Mt. Etna in the distance and the Ionian Sea below, the setting is picture-perfect. While wandering through the winding medieval streets of town, the local guide provides insight into the rich history and cultural heritage. See the main square and the Duomo - the symbol of the city. Stroll along Corso Umberto - the vibrant heart of the city center, lined with elegant boutiques, cafés, and artisan shops. A visit to the magnificent Ancient Theater of Taormina — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sicily’s most impressive archaeological sites — offers spectacular panoramas of the sea and surrounding landscape. Enjoy free time for lunch on your own and personal exploration before returning to Giardini Naxos for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant on the final night in Sicily. Meals: B, D

It’s time to bid ‘arrivederci’ to Sicily as you depart the hotel on the transfer to the Catania airport for your flight home. Meal: B