At dawn, watch fishermen launch their brightly colored boats into the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean as they have for centuries. Wake up to the scents of espresso and freshly baked bread. Explore ancient monuments, their stone walls fragrant with jasmine. Immerse yourself in Sicily’s history, with ruins of the Greek, Phoenician, and Roman civilizations as much a part of everyday life as the striking beauty of Mount Etna, towering over this lovely island.

Itinerary

Days 1 - 3 - Depart from Palermo, Italy

Arrive in Palermo, situated at the foot of Mount Pellegrino, and relax in the Villa Igiea Hilton. Stroll the fragrant jasmine gardens or enjoy spectacular sunset views of the Mediterranean from your room. Wander Palermo’s intricate streets, admiring the blending of styles that mark its history from a significant medieval city to a model of Baroque architecture, to today’s dynamic and vibrant distillation of old and new. Also visit the 12th century Cathedral of Monreale and admire its beautiful display of mosaics.

Days 4 & 5 - Segesta, Erice & Mazara del Vallo

This morning, explore Segesta, built in 500 B.C. and one of the best preserved Greek architectural sites in the world. Continue to the beautiful Phoenician and Hellenistic town of Erice, dedicated to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of fertility and love. Explore the ancient Greek city of Selinunte. The city was founded in the 7th century B.C. During its glorious two centuries, it was one of the most progressive Greek cities in Sicily.

Day 6 - Agrigento & Siracusa

Founded as the Greek city of Akragas around 582 B.C., it was renamed Agrigentum by the Romans, and Girgenti by the Saracens. Explore this classical city and the Valley of the Temples, erected in the 5th century B.C. as a testimony to the city’s prosperity. Quaint charm and historic grandeur mingle as you traverse the terracelike countryside. Siracusa’s old town, the
legendary Greek home of Archimedes, is situated on the island of Ortigia.
Magnificent remnants of ancient Siracusa surround us as we take an expert-guided walk, discovering the rich history and tides of conquest that have shaped this city.

Days 7 - 10 - Taorimina

Explore Taormina’s winding medieval streets and tiny secret passages and experience the charm of this romantic town. Visit the Greek Theatre, and take in the majestic views of Mt. Etna, Sicily’s tallest peak and Europe’s tallest active volcano. Admire the mysterious bronze warriors at the National Archeological Museum in Reggio Calabria, a small town surrounded by olive groves and citrus trees in mainland Italy.

9/09