ITINERARY
Day 1
May 26th – Arrival Day
Welcome to Sicily! Upon your arrival at Catania Airport, we’ll be there to greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to Taormina. As we make our way along the scenic coastal road, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Ionian Sea and, on a clear day, the impressive silhouette of Mount Etna. The winding drive through the hills will take us to the beautiful town of Taormina, known for its cozy streets and breathtaking sea views.
Once we arrive, you’ll have time to check in at the hotel and unwind. In the early evening, we’ll meet by the hotel lobby for a short meet and greet and orientation, where we’ll share what’s ahead for the trip. Afterward, we’ll stroll through Taormina’s charming streets to a nearby restaurant for a special welcome dinner. You’ll have the chance to taste some of Sicily’s most beloved dishes, setting the stage for the culinary experiences to come.
Day 2; Exploring Taormina
May 27th
After a relaxing morning, we’ll begin our day with a visit to Taormina’s beautiful communal gardens. Here, you can stroll through lush greenery while enjoying panoramic views of the coast and Mount Etna in the distance. It’s a peaceful way to start the day and take in the natural beauty of this charming town.
For lunch, we’ll keep it light and casual with a stop at a local paninoteca, where you can savor fresh sandwiches made with local ingredients, such as Sicilian cheeses, cured meats, and vegetables.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a guided tour of the Teatro Antico, one of Taormina’s most iconic landmarks. This ancient Greek-Roman theater offers not only a fascinating glimpse into history but also spectacular views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore Taormina at your own pace. Whether you want to shop, relax at a café, or wander through the picturesque streets, the town is yours to discover. In the evening, we’ll come together again for dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy more of Sicily’s delicious cuisine.
Day 3
May 28th;Linguaglossa and a Winery in Etna
On Day 3, we’ll leave Taormina and set off for Linguaglossa, where we’ll visit the renowned Donnafugata winery. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious brunch accompanied by a wine tasting, giving you the chance to savor some of the region’s best wines. After the winery visit, we’ll spend some time exploring the charming town of Linguaglossa, taking in its local atmosphere and discovering its hidden gems.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to Taormina, where you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore or relax as you wish. You can stroll through the town, shop, or simply unwind. Dinner will be at your own discretion, and we’ll be happy to provide recommendations for local restaurants.
Day 4; Free Day in Taormina
May 29th.
Day 4 is all about enjoying Taormina at your own pace. You’ll have the entire day free to explore the town, visit a local spa, or take part in one of the many activities available in the area. We’ll provide a detailed list of recommended places to visit, local restaurants to try, and dishes and wines to taste, ensuring you get the most out of your free time.
If you’re looking for adventure, you might consider a boat ride around Isola Bella, a visit to Mount Etna, or other exciting activities in the region. Whether you choose to relax or explore, the day is yours to enjoy.
Day 5; On our Way to Ortigia
May 30th.
On Day 5, we’ll depart from Taormina and head to the historic island of Ortigia, a cultural gem known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the local mercato, where you’ll experience the lively energy of a traditional Sicilian market. We’ll enjoy a light lunch at a renowned salumeria, where you can taste local specialties like cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread.
After lunch, we’ll check in at our hotel, giving you some time to relax and get settled. In the afternoon, we’ll take you on a guided tour of Ortigia, exploring its narrow streets, historic sites, and waterfront views. You’ll get to know the rich history and cultural significance of this fascinating island.
In the evening, we’ll meet in the hotel lobby and head out together for dinner at a local restaurant. The meal will feature traditional Sicilian seafood, offering you the chance to enjoy the freshest catches of the day, prepared with authentic regional flavors.
Day 6; Visit a Local Cheesemaker, Guided Visit of Ragua
May 31st.
On Day 6, we’ll leave Ortigia and make our way to Ragusa, but first, we’ll stop at a local cheese farm renowned for producing some of the best cheeses in the region, including the famous pecorino. During our visit, you’ll see firsthand how these traditional cheeses are made and enjoy a tasting of their products, along with other island specialties.
After our visit to the farm, we’ll continue on to Ragusa, where we’ll take a guided tour of the old town. As you wander through its narrow streets and admire the Baroque architecture, you’ll learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this beautiful town.
In the evening, we’ll return to Ortigia, where you’ll have a free evening to explore and enjoy dinner at your own pace. Whether you want to try a cozy local restaurant or revisit a favorite spot, the choice is yours.
Day 7; Olive Oil Tasting and Farm Cooking Experience in the Sicilian Countryside
June 1st.
On Day 7, we’ll head into the tranquil countryside of southern Sicily for a relaxing and immersive experience. The day will begin with a professional extra virgin olive oil lesson and tasting, where you’ll learn about the process behind producing high-quality olive oil and taste a variety of local oils, gaining a deeper appreciation for this essential part of Sicilian cuisine.
Following the tasting, we’ll take part in a hands-on cooking experience, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional farm dishes using fresh, local ingredients. It’s a chance to connect with the simple, authentic flavors of the countryside while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of rural Sicily.
The day will be a peaceful retreat, offering plenty of time to savor the surroundings and enjoy the slower pace of life in this beautiful region. In the evening, we’ll return to Ortigia, where you’ll have a free evening to enjoy dinner at your own pace, exploring the town’s many wonderful dining options.
Day 8; Noto
June 2nd. – Cooking lesson, Castellana a Grotte, and Alberobello
Day 8 is a special day as it coincides with Festa della Repubblica, Italy’s national holiday. In the morning, we’ll travel to Noto, a stunning Baroque town known for its magnificent architecture and charming streets. As we explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll admire its grand buildings, including the Cathedral of Noto and the Palazzo Nicolaci.
During our visit, we’ll stop at the famous Caffè Sicilia, where you’ll have the chance to taste granita di mandorle (almond granita) and other local specialties, such as cannoli, cassata, and brioche col tuppo. These sweet treats offer a perfect way to experience the flavors of this beautiful region.
We’ll return to Ortigia in the evening for a group dinner, where we’ll reflect on the day’s experiences while savoring more Sicilian delights.
Day 9; Caltagirone, on Our Way to Catania
June 3rd.
On Day 9, we’ll depart from Ortigia and begin our journey to our final destination, Catania. Before reaching the Catania, we’ll make a detour to Caltagirone, a town renowned for its stunning Sicilian ceramics. As we explore this beautiful town, you’ll see its famous ceramic steps and colorful pottery adorning the streets.
After lunch in Caltagirone, we’ll attend a ceramics workshop, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to work alongside a master artisan. This hands-on experience will give you insight into the artistry behind Sicilian ceramics and allow you to create your own piece.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Catania and check in at our hotel. The evening is yours to explore the city at your leisure, with plenty of dining options available for dinner.
Day 10: Catania’s Fish Market, Cooking Lesson and Farewell
June 4th.
On Day 10, we’ll offer an optional early morning visit to Catania’s famous fish market. This lively market is a feast for the senses, where you can witness the bustling activity and vibrant displays of fresh seafood, a hallmark of the region’s culinary culture.
Later in the morning, we’ll gather for a special cooking lesson, featuring a surprise element that adds a unique twist to the experience. Together, we’ll prepare a meal using fresh, local ingredients, including the seafood from the market. Lunch will be the delicious result of our cooking efforts, offering a final taste of Sicily’s authentic flavors.
In the evening, we’ll come together one last time for a special farewell dinner. This celebratory meal will be the perfect way to conclude our time in Sicily, reflecting on the wonderful experiences, flavors, and memories we’ve shared.
Day 11; Departure from Catania
June 5th.
On Day 11, we bid farewell as your journey through Sicily comes to an end. We have arranged scheduled transports to ensure a smooth and stress-free departure for all guests. Whether you are heading to the airport or the train station, our team will assist with your transfers, ensuring you reach your destination comfortably and on time.