Overview
Itinerary
Your Italian sojourn opens in Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Discover the city's vibrant culture as you take in its gritty, unshakable spirit and captivating energy. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine. (D) Stay: NH Palermo (2 Nights)
Begin the day with an extensive walking tour of Palermo's old town. On foot, uncover cobblestoned piazzas and ornate buildings, many worn by time and conflict. Visit hilltop Monreale (UNESCO), ascending 92 steps to its 12th-century cathedral. Tour its majestic Byzantine mosaics and explore the cathedral's cloisters. Take in the serene atmosphere of the monastic complex before returning to Palermo for an evening at leisure. (B)
This morning, journey to a family-owned farmhouse, picturesquely set in the hills surrounding Palermo. Meet the owners and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like. Sit back and tuck into a hearty farm-to-table lunch, made with family recipes. Relax aboard your bus as you travel over rolling hills and peaceful farmland to Sicily's southern coast for a 2-night stay in the outskirts of Agrigento. (B/L/D) Stay: Baia di Ulisse (2 Nights)
This morning, it's your choice! Enjoy time at leisure at your hotel, where you can take in the views from its panoramic terrace and walk along the beach -OR- venture into Agrigento's old town for a stroll through its historic center and free time to explore.
This afternoon, step back 25 centuries and delve into ancient Greek history with a visit of the stunning Valley of the Temples (UNESCO), one of the world's most esteemed archeological sites. Get an up-close view of the temples of Juno, Concordia, and Hercules during an extensive walking tour of this ancient acropolis. Then, pause for dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel. (B/D)
Venture deep into Sicily's countryside to Piazza Armerina, home of the ancient Villa Romana del Casale (UNESCO). Explore the site with an expert insider for a locally guided tour of its impressive Roman mosaics.
In the afternoon, journey east to Sicily's Ionian Coast for your 2-night stay in Giardini Naxos. This evening, perhaps you'll join an optional dinner with music, where traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. (B) Stay: Una Hotel Naxos Beach Sicilia (2 Nights)
This morning explore beautiful Taormina, home to ancient relics, rocky hills, and charming gardens. With an expert local guide, you'll stroll the lively pedestrianized main street and climb to the city's well-preserved Greek theatre. The afternoon is yours to relax in Giardini Naxos – the “garden of Sicily” – or opt to see Sicily's wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. During this optional tour, your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe's largest active volcano while you take in views of its lava formations and basalt rocks. (B/D)
Take a short and scenic ferry ride across the narrow Strait of Messina, separating Sicily from Italy's mainland. During your full day bus transfer, pass through the unspoiled region of Calabria and onto the Basilicata region. Wander through the twisting vines of a local winery before touring the cellar for a tasting. Linger over regional cuisine at dinner in the winery's agriturismo restaurant. (B/D) Stay: UNAHOTELS MH Matera Hotel (2 Nights)
Explore the Sassi di Matera (UNESCO), an ancient settlement of carved cave dwellings. A local guide shares the history and explains why film producers are seeking out this unique landscape. The afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps you'll join an optional tour to Alberobello (UNESCO) in the nearby region of Puglia. Here, marvel at the town's whimsical trulli homes, known for their distinct, cone-shaped roofs. (B/D)
Stop at a sustainable buffalo dairy farm for a taste of freshly made mozzarella and a peek into the history of this iconic cheese. After lunch at the farm, transfer to the Sorrentine Peninsula and settle in for a 2-night stay. During a walking tour, discover the charms of Sorrento and learn about the local tradition of wood marquetry. (B/L) Stay: Hotel Michelangelo (2 Nights)
This morning, take in the sights and colors of the Mediterranean Sea as you sail along the initial stretch of the breathtaking Amalfi Coast (UNESCO). Gaze out over the deep blue hues of the sea paired with the bright citrus fruits lining the hillsides. Pause in Positano with its pastel-colored houses and pebbly beaches. Spend time in this legendary locale browsing the posh boutiques or resting along the beach, before returning to Sorrento for an afternoon at leisure. (B)
Journey north to Rome. En route, experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii (UNESCO). Here, it's your choice! Soak in the history of this 2,000-year-old Roman town at your own pace by picking between a leisurely walking tour of Pompeii's essential sights -OR- a faster paced walk covering more off-the-beaten-path gems. Step into another time as you explore the preserved buildings and imagine life in the 1st century. An afternoon-long transfer leads to Rome, where you arrive in the early evening. Celebrate the end of your journey with a delightful farewell dinner. (B/D) Stay: Massimo D'Azeglio Hotel
Your tour comes to a close today. (B)
Your Italian journey begins in Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Discover the city's vibrant culture as you take in its gritty, unshakable spirit, and captivating energy. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently.
Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine. (D) Stay: NH Palermo (2 Nights)
This morning, visit hilltop Monreale, ascending 92 steps to its 12th-century cathedral and entering to see its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Next, travel to a family-owned farmhouse, picturesquely set in the hills surrounding Palermo. Meet the owners and discover what a typical day on a Sicilian farm is like, and then tuck into a hearty farm-to-table lunch, made with family recipes. Return to Palermo for an evening at leisure. (B/L)
Begin the day with an extensive walking tour of Palermo's old town. On foot, uncover cobblestone piazzas and ornate buildings, many worn by time and conflict.
This afternoon, relax aboard your bus as you travel over rolling hills and peaceful farmland to Sicily's southern coast for a two-night stay in the outskirts of Agrigento. (B/D) Stay: Baia di Ulisse (2 Nights)
This morning, step back 25 centuries and delve into ancient Greek history with a visit of the stunning Valley of the Temples, one of the world's most esteemed archeological sites. Get an up-close view of the temples of Juno, Concordia, and Hercules during an extensive walking tour of this ancient acropolis.
This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure at your hotel, where you can take in the views from its panoramic terrace and walk along the beach. Spend the evening as you wish. Perhaps you'll head to Agrigento's old town for a stroll through its historic center and free time to explore. (B)
Venture deep into Sicily's countryside to Piazza Armerina, home of the ancient Villa Romana del Casale. Explore the site with an expert insider for a locally guided tour of its impressive Roman mosaics.
In the afternoon, journey to Sicily's eastern shores for your three-night stay in Giardini Naxos.
This evening, perhaps you'll join an optional dinner with music, where traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. (B) Stay: Una Hotel Naxos Beach Sicilia (3 Nights)
This morning, explore beautiful Taormina, home to ancient relics, rocky hills, and charming gardens. With an expert local guide, you'll stroll the lively pedestrianized main street and climb to the city's well-preserved Greek theatre. The afternoon is yours to explore more of Taormina or relax in Giardini Naxos – the “garden of Sicily”. (B)
Today is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps you'll opt to experience Sicily's wilder side on an off-road adventure up Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Take in awe-inspiring views from a 4x4 vehicle and hop out to walk amid lava formations and basalt rocks.
After a wine-paired lunch at a winery on the slopes of Mount Etna, return to your hotel in the late afternoon. (B/D)
Take a short and scenic ferry ride across the narrow Strait of Messina, separating Sicily from Italy's mainland. During your full day bus transfer, pass through the unspoiled region of Calabria and onto the Basilicata region. Wander through the twisting vines of a local winery before touring the cellar for a tasting. Linger over regional cuisine at dinner in the winery's agriturismo restaurant. (B/D) Stay: UNAHOTELS MH Matera Hotel (2 Nights)
Explore the Sassi di Matera, an ancient settlement of carved cave dwellings that has been continuously inhabited for millennia. A local guide shares the history and explains why film producers are seeking out this unique landscape. The afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps you'll join an optional tour to Alberobello in the nearby region of Puglia. Here, marvel at the town's whimsical trulli homes, known for their distinct, cone-shaped roofs. (B/D)
After a full morning's drive, stop at a sustainable buffalo dairy farm for a taste of freshly made mozzarella and a peek into the history of this iconic cheese. After lunch at the dairy, continue to the Sorrentine Peninsula and settle in for a two-night stay.
This evening, discover the allure of Sorrento during a walk around its charming old town. (B/L) Stay: Hotel Michelangelo (2 Nights)
This morning, take in the sights and colors of the Mediterranean Sea as you sail along the initial stretch of the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Gaze out over the deep blue hues of the sea paired with the bright citrus fruits lining the hillsides. Pause in Positano with its pastel-colored houses and pebbly beaches. Spend time in this legendary locale browsing the posh boutiques or relaxing along the beach, before returning to Sorrento for an evening at leisure. (B)
Journey north to Rome. En route, experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii. Here, it's your choice! Soak in the history of this 2,000-year-old Roman town at your own pace by picking between a leisurely walking tour of Pompeii's essential sights -OR- a faster paced walk covering more off-the-beaten-path gems. Step into another time as you explore the preserved buildings and imagine life in the 1st-century.
An afternoon-long transfer leads to Rome, where you arrive in the early evening. Celebrate the end of your journey with a delightful farewell dinner. (B/D) Stay: Massimo D'Azeglio Hotel
Your tour comes to a close today. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Stand in awe before the ancient Greek theatre in Taormina.
- Experience true Sicilian hospitality during a farmhouse lunch.
- Journey to Positano village, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast.
- Behold the glittering mosaics of Monreale Cathedral.
- Journey to the Sassi di Matera, known for its cave dwellings.
- Experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii at the foothills of Mount Vesuvius.
- Indulge in a regional dinner at a winery's agriturismo restaurant.
- Tour a vineyard and wine cellar located in the badlands of Matera's Basilicata region.
- Savor freshly made mozzarella cheese during a visit to a buffalo dairy farm.
- Expertly crafted itineraries
- 4-star+ accommodation
- Skilled and engaging tour managers
- Expert local guides with insider knowledge
- Attraction entrance fees
- Many meals full of local flavour
- Unparalleled sightseeing
- Enriching cultural experiences
- Comfortable on-tour transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel baggage handling
- Plus, access to Wi-Fi hotspots on tour
- This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Experience true Sicilian hospitality during a farmhouse lunch.
- Journey to Positano village, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast.
- Stand in awe before the ancient Greek theatre in Taormina.
- Behold the glittering mosaics of Monreale Cathedral.
- Journey to the Sassi di Matera, known for its cave dwellings.
- Experience the excavated ruins of Pompeii at the foothills of Mount Vesuvius.
- Indulge in a regional dinner at a winery's agriturismo restaurant.
- Tour a vineyard and wine cellar located in the badlands of Matera's Basilicata region.
- Savor freshly made mozzarella cheese during a visit to a buffalo dairy farm.
- Expertly crafted itineraries
- 4-star+ accommodation
- Skilled and engaging tour managers
- Expert local guides with insider knowledge
- Attraction entrance fees
- Many meals full of local flavour
- Unparalleled sightseeing
- Enriching cultural experiences
- Comfortable on-tour transportation
- Hotel-to-hotel baggage handling
- Plus, access to Wi-Fi hotspots on tour
- This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Classic tours are for those who want to see the sights, taste the cuisine and experience the world. Read more
Purchase Collette's Travel Protection Plan, & you can cancel for any reason and get your money back! Read more
Private, chauffeur service is included for all air-inclusive Collette bookings. Read more
Classic tours are for those who want to see the sights, taste the cuisine and experience the world. Read more
Purchase Collette's Travel Protection Plan, & you can cancel for any reason and get your money back! Read more
Private, chauffeur service is included for all air-inclusive Collette bookings. Read more
Trip Optionals These optional activities can be pre-booked & included in your trip price.
- Location: Giardini Naxos. Cost: $95.
- Linger over an exquisite four-course meal while traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. Join us on your free evening for an unforgettable dinner at a popular local restaurant. Your evening begins with a typical Italian antipasto and continues with a variety of local specialties and fine Sicilian wines. Delight in the lively music performed by talented local musicians who are sure to have you clapping and singing along. Sit back and savor the flavors of Sicily during a fun-filled evening with true Italian ambiance and local cuisine. Duration approximately 2.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 15 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. Gratuities are included.
- Location: Giardini Naxos. Cost: $65.
- See Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano. Spend a half-day exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks before returning to your hotel in Giardini Naxos. Duration approximately 5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 15 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. This option must be booked no later than 30 days prior to departure. Please note: you will reach an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) above sea level. Gratuities for your driver and nature-guide are not included in the price of this optional excursion. We recommend tipping $2-3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person.
- Location: Matera. Cost: $65.
- Journey to Puglia, Italy’s bread-basket region. In the company of an expert local guide, explore fanciful Alberobello, a whimsical, UNESCO-protected city that hosts a collection of cone-shaped trulli homes. Enjoy some free time to meander through a labyrinth of these gnomish houses, sometimes featuring symbols with superstitious connotations before returning to Matera in the early evening. Duration approximately 4 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
- Location: Giardini Naxos. Cost: $99.
- Linger over an exquisite four-course meal while traditional Sicilian melodies fill the air. Join us on your free evening for an unforgettable dinner at a popular local restaurant. Your evening begins with a typical Italian antipasto and continues with a variety of local specialties and fine Sicilian wines. Delight in the lively music performed by talented local musicians who are sure to have you clapping and singing along. Sit back and savor the flavors of Sicily during a fun-filled evening with true Italian ambiance and local cuisine. Duration approximately 2.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 15 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. Gratuities are included.
- Location: Matera. Cost: $59.
- Journey to Puglia, Italy’s bread-basket region. In the company of an expert local guide, explore fanciful Alberobello, a whimsical, UNESCO-protected city that hosts a collection of cone-shaped trulli homes. Enjoy some free time to meander through a labyrinth of these gnomish houses, sometimes featuring symbols with superstitious connotations before returning to Matera in the early evening. Duration approximately 4 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
- Location: Giardini Naxos. Cost: $199.
- Explore Sicily’s wilder side on a full day, off-road adventure up Mount Etna! As your rugged 4x4 vehicle ascends Europe’s largest active volcano, take in the awe-inspiring views of its iconic peak. Your expert driver navigates the volcano’s diverse landscapes and challenging terrain, giving you the opportunity to hop out for a walk, immersing yourself in Etna’s lava formations and basalt rocks. Pause for a wine-paired lunch at a winery remarkably situated on the slopes of Mount Etna, and offering panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, having spent a rewarding day exploring this legendary giant. Duration approximately 7 hour(s). Transportation is included.
Trip Reviews (1) Most Recent 'Southern Italy & Sicily' Reviews
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Collette Worldwide (2025-26)
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Collette Worldwide (2025-26)
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