Sicily Jewel of the Mediterranean

Sicily Jewel of the Mediterranean

Sicily, at the geographical and historical heart of the Mediterranean, has been coveted, fought over and colonised for millennia.

As such, the island presents a unique culture, best exhibited in its architecture, language and cuisine, which bears the stamp of the Phoenicians, Athenians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Byzantines and Bourbons.

This comprehensive 10-day exploration introduces you to Sicily’s best-known treasures, including its superbly well-preserved Greek temples, legendary Mount Etna and splendid Monreale Cathedral.

What’s Included:

• 9 nights in hotels (accommodation as specified or similar)
• International flights
• 16 meals: 9 breakfasts (days 2-10) 7 dinners (days 1, 2, 4 and 6-9)

13 included excursions and visits

• Guided tours of Syracuse, Segesta, Selinunte, Valley of the Temples, the Roman villa at Piazza Armerina, and Taormina (including Greek theatre and Alcantara Gorge)
• Visits of Aci Castello, Catania, Cefalù, Monreale, Palermo and Mount Etna
• Wine tasting at Cantina Murgo

Plus all these benefits

• Portable audio headset system on excursions
• Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service
• Titan tour manager
• Travel in destination by coach
• Porterage

Day 1: UK - Catania

Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your flight to Catania. On arrival we drive to our hotel for the next three nights, the UNA Hotel Palace (4T) or Katane Palace Hotel (4T), where dinner is included this evening.

Day 2: Syracuse - Ortigia

Today we travel south with our local guide to Syracuse, rich in Ancient Greek history. Later we visit Ortigia, a small island joined to Syracuse by a bridge since the 16th century, but its past goes further back and it is a pleasure to explore the narrow medieval lanes. Dinner is included at the hotel.

Day 3: Aci Castello - Catania

This morning we travel to Aci Castello, whose 11th century Norman castle is built out of lava, before moving on to Catania, Sicily’s second largest city, and its beautiful historic centre shaped by Mount Etna’s temper. You are then free for the rest of the day.

Day 4: Cefalù - Santa Flavia

We spend some time in the pretty beach town of Cefalù on our way to the Palermo area. Wander its narrow lanes, or perhaps treat yourself to a gelato to enjoy by the sandy beach. Stay overnight in Dominia Zagarella Sicily, Santa Flavia (4-star).

Day 5: Palermo - Monreale

We visit Palermo for a guided tour of this bustling city. We’ll then travel to Monreale to visit the magnificent cathedral, famed for its multi-coloured marble paintings and mosaics.

Day 6: Segesta - Trapani - Selinunte - Agrigento

Our first stop today is Segesta for a guided tour including a visit to the fascinating Greek temple ruins. We then continue to the fishing port of Trapani. Lastly, at Selinunte, we’ll be joined by a local guide to view the Greek archaeological site. We arrive early evening at our hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel Baia di Ulisse, Agrigento (4-star)

Day 7: Agrigento - Valley of the Temples - Piazza Armerina - Giardini Naxos

We start our day with one of the highlights - a guided visit of the nearby Valle dei Templi, a collection of classic Greek temples scattered across a valley of almond trees. After time for lunch, we head east to Piazza Armerina. A guided tour of the Roman villa reveals an incredible floor mosaic. We then continue to Giardini Naxos, a lovely coastal resort. We stay at our hotel for the next three nights, the Sant Alphio Garden Hotel & Spa (4T) or similar.

Day 8: Taormina

Our walking tour shows us the sights of the cliffside town of Taormina, including its Etna-view Greek theatre. We’ll then continue our journey to nearby Alcantara Gorge.

Day 9: Mount Etna

This morning we take a drive to the slopes of Etna. After a short walk, there will be free time to explore this fascinating area at your own pace. Be sure to bring a camera - on a clear day, the views from here are spectacular. Later, we visit Cantina Murgo winery for a tasting of delicious Sicilian wine and local produce.

Day 10: Giardini Naxos - Catania - UK

We transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.