Sicily Tour and Malta (11 Days / 10 Nights)

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Full description Day 1 – Saturday: CATANIA (Hotel in Catania)
Arrival at Catania airport and transfer to your hotel in the charming city of Catania (a private transfer can be arranged if needed). Free time for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2 – Sunday: SIRACUSA – NOTO (Hotel in Ragusa)
After breakfast at the hotel, we will head towards Siracusa, a city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which showcases the grandeur of the Greek colony in Sicily. We will explore the Greek Theatre, the Roman Amphitheatre, the Latomies of Paradise, and the Ear of Dionysius. The tour will continue in the historic center of Ortigia, where the majestic Piazza Duomo with its impressive buildings will leave us in awe. The Cathedral, a splendid example of Sicilian Baroque, preserves within it the ancient columns of a Doric temple. We will stroll through the picturesque streets of this fascinating island, reaching the port and the legendary Arethusa fountain. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we will head to the charming city of Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will be amazed by its 18th-century architectural wonders. Free time to explore Noto before we transfer to Ragusa for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3 – Monday: RAGUSA IBLA – MODICA – PIAZZA ARMERINA (Hotel in Agrigento)
After breakfast at the hotel, we will head to Ragusa Ibla, famous for its magnificent churches and the Giardino Ibleo, at the heart of Sicilian late Baroque. Ragusa is one of the 44 Italian sites declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over fifty churches and numerous Baroque palaces. The town is also known for being the setting of the TV series "Inspector Montalbano." Next, we will visit Modica, another Baroque gem recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will enjoy a tasting at the famous Sabadì chocolate shop, internationally awarded for its unique I.G.P. chocolate, protected by Slow Food. We will then have a relaxing break with a light lunch in the charming setting of the Orti di San Giorgio, seven gardens suspended between light and beauty along the stairs of the Church of San Giorgio. In the afternoon, we will transfer to Piazza Armerina to visit the splendid Villa Romana del Casale, a majestic late-imperial residence, likely belonging to a member of the Roman senatorial aristocracy. The villa boasts a monumental entrance and unique mosaics depicting scenes of hunting, mythology, and daily life. Transfer to Agrigento for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 4 – Tuesday: AGRIGENTO – MARSALA – SALT PANS (Hotel in Palermo)
Today, we continue with an unforgettable experience at the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here stand the majestic remnants of the ancient city of Akragas. As we walk through the valley, we will marvel at the temples of Juno, Concordia, and Hercules. After leaving Agrigento, we will head to the fascinating city of Marsala, famous for the historic landing of Garibaldi in 1860. We will stroll through the historic center, admiring ancient noble palaces, monuments, and beautiful Baroque churches. Then, we will enjoy an exclusive visit to the historic Florio Wineries, where we will embark on a fascinating journey through the giant 19th-century barrels still used to mature Marsala wine in the three wineries. A light lunch will be served, accompanied by the wines of the winery. We will continue along the famous Salt Road, admiring the islands of the Stagnone Lagoon and the salt pans, a natural reserve of great importance. These salt pans, among the oldest in the world, remain a significant salt-extracting industry. Transfer to Palermo, free time for dinner, and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 5 – Wednesday: MONREALE – PALERMO (Hotel in Palermo)
After breakfast, we will head to Monreale, where we will admire the majestic Arab-Norman Cathedral, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, and its splendid cloister, known for the intricate details of precious stones. Then, we will move on to Palermo, a remarkable Sicilian city at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, which was home to emirs and kings, revealing a rich blend of historical eras through its architectural styles. Palermo preserves Arab-Norman treasures, such as its imposing Cathedral, the Church of La Martorana, one of the most fascinating medieval Byzantine churches in Italy, and the Palatine Chapel, a magnificent example of cultural and religious harmony. We will enjoy a typical lunch with local dishes. Afterwards, while walking through the heart of the historic center, we will be impressed by the grand Teatro Massimo and the controversial Fontana della Piazza Pretoria, decorated with Renaissance sculptures. Free time for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 6 – Thursday: CEFALÚ – CATANIA (Hotel in Catania)
Today, we begin the day visiting the charming medieval seaside village of Cefalú, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, where we can admire the crystal-clear blue waters and the splendid Norman Cathedral. Free time to stroll through the picturesque streets of the town. For those who wish, an optional visit to the renowned Mandralisca Museum. We will pause for lunch at a local restaurant. The tour will then continue towards Catania, where we will explore the historic center, famous for its Baroque architecture, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will discover the many hidden treasures of this charming city, such as the scenic Piazza del Duomo, with the magnificent Cathedral and the iconic Elephant of volcanic stone, then continue to Piazza Università. Visit the enchanting Via dei Crociferi, the heart of Catanese Baroque, where we will find the Monastery of San Benedetto, immortalized in the novel "Story of a Seagull" by Giovanni Verga. Stop at a bar in the city center to enjoy a typical granita with brioche. Dinner on your own and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7 – Friday: ETNA – TAORMINA (Hotel in Catania)
After breakfast, a brief visit to the historic fish market "La Pescheria." Then, we will head towards Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, standing at 3,350 meters and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Etna Park covers 59,000 hectares and features an astonishingly varied flora, with many protected species. We will arrive at the Rifugio Sapienza, where we will be captivated by the spectacular views, and continue to the Silvestri Craters, ancient inactive volcanic cones dating back to 1888, surrounded by more recent lava flows. The landscape is truly unique. During the morning, we will have the opportunity to sample local artisan honey and other local products. Later, we will head to Taormina, where we will stop for lunch in a restaurant in the historic center. Taormina is famous for its spectacular natural setting, marine wonders, historical monuments, and an unforgettable view of the sea with Mount Etna in the background. We will visit the charming Greco-Roman theater, with a stunning view of the Gulf of Naxos. Free time to stroll through the charming medieval streets of the town and shop in the many local artisan workshops. Free time for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 8 – Saturday: CATANIA – VALLETTA (Hotel in Malta)
After breakfast, free time in the historic center of Catania. Depending on your flight time, private transfer to the airport for a direct flight to the island of Malta. The tour will continue without a guide. Upon arrival in Malta, private transfer to the hotel. Free time for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 9 – Sunday: COTTONERA – MARSAXLOKK – BLUE GROTTO – DINGLI (Hotel in Malta)
Today, we will enjoy a full-day excursion with a private driver and guide to discover the wonders of this magical island. We will begin with a visit to Cottonera, also known as The Three Cities: Senglea, Vittoriosa, and Cospicua, fortified cities. Next, we will visit the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, where the waterfront is lined with traditional colorful boats called "luzzus." Free time to stroll through the town center and explore the famous local market. Then, we will head to the town of Wied iz-Zurrieq, where those who wish can take a boat trip (weather permitting) to admire the famous Blue Grotto, with its crystal-clear waters of deep blue. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit Dingli, a scenic area located on Malta's highest cliffs, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 10 – Monday: VALLETTA – MDINA (Hotel in Malta)
After breakfast, a guided tour of Valletta, the capital of Malta, named in honor of its founder, Grand Master Jean de La Valette. This city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an open-air museum. During the tour, we will discover key landmarks, such as the Upper Barrakka Gardens, with a splendid view of the Grand Harbor, and St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which houses two impressive works by Caravaggio, among other treasures. We will then head to Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta, a remarkable medieval site known as "the silent city." We will stroll through its narrow streets and admire the panoramic view of the island from the ancient walls. Free time for a light lunch before returning to the hotel. Free afternoon to relax or explore Malta on your own.

Day 11 – Tuesday: MALTA
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out and transfer to the airport. End of our services. Until the next adventure!

The programme may be subject to change Additional information Take note that the tours are multilingual, in high season (usually April, May, September, October with the possibility of adding other dates in June and July) we have the possibility of having two groups departing, one monolingual English and one bi-lingual Italian/SpanishIt is very important that you advise of any specific dietary restrictions at the time of bookingIf you choose the PRIVILEGE PACKAGE, please provide full details of your place of arrival at your destination when formalizing your booking. It is very important in this case to note that it is the passenger's sole obligation and responsibility to contact the local contact number one day before the service to confirm the exact pick-up point and timePlease be at the pick up or meeting point 15 minutes before the tour startsPRIVILEGE PACKAGE available only for Single and Double roomThe tour operates with a guide in Spanish, English and Italian until the 7th day. From the 8th day it operates only with a guide in ItalianThe tour operates in private service in the Malta routeIf you wish to include some of the entrances of museums, please contact the reservations department. Here are the entrances that could include: Monreale Cathedral, Monreale Cloister, Palermo Palatine Chapel, Palermo Martorana Church, Taormina Greek Theater, Syracuse Archaeological Park, Syracuse Cathedral, Noto Nicolaci Palace, Piazza Armerina Roman Villa, Agrigento Valley of the Temples, Casa Rocca Piccola , St John's Cathedral, Grand Master's Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral Inclusions Authorized multilingual escort/guide (Italian, English, Spanish) from the evening of the 2nd day to the evening of the 7th day, local guides or audio-guides where necessaryDeluxe bus from the 2nd to the 7th day Radio guide kitAccommodation in 4* hotel: Catania historic center (Il Principe Hotel 4* / Romano House Hotel 4* or similar), Ragusa historic center (Mediterraneo Palace Hotel 4* or similar; Agrigento: Baia di Ulisse Wellness & SPA 4* or similar), Palermo historic center (Mercure Palermo Centro 4* / Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal 4* or similar)7 international breakfasts, 5 lunches in renowned restaurants, 2 dinners in hotels to taste traditional Sicilian dishesVisit the most suggestive Unesco sites: Syracuse, Noto, Ragusa, Modica, Piazza Armerina, Agrigento, Monreale, Palermo, Cefalù, Catania historic centre, EtnaTastings of typical products : Modica (3rd day) visit of the renowned Sabadì chocolate shop with tasting; Marsala (4th day) visit of the historic Florio wine cellars and wine tasting; Catania (6th day) Sicilian granita with brioche; Etna (7th day) tasting of honey and typical products of the Etna areaPrivate transfer to Catania Hotel / Catania AirportExtension on private basis in MaltaAccommodation in elegant 4* hotels: Malta (Hotel Argento St Julians 4* / Seashells Resort at Suncrest 4* or similar) 3 international breakfastsCatania-Malta direct flight with 20kg luggage included Private transfer from Valletta airport to Hotel1 full day excursion with private driver and authorized guide in Italian (1st day) or, alternatively, 1 excursion by boat/motorboat to the Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo and The Caves1 half day excursion with private driver and authorized guide in Italian (2nd day)PRIVILEGE PACKAGE Includes: Superior/Deluxe room, Private transfer in /out, Tourist taxes, All entrance fees to the museums included in the program Exclusions Transfers in/outEntrance fees to monuments/museumsTourist taxes (where applicable)Tickets, meals and drinks unless specifically specified in the tour inclusionsOther unspecified service Cancellation Policy Free cancellation up to 15 days before the service. Cancellations between 14 days and 9 days, refund of 70% of the service price. Cancellations between 8 days and 4 days, refund of 30% of the service price. Cancellations after this time limits or no show, no refund provided. Meeting point Hall of the hotel of the tour