Compare Palermo - Agrigento - Syracuse - Taormina by Train by TripMasters vs Italian Holiday by Trafalgar

Day 1 in Palermo

Welcome to Palermo! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Once you arrive, we recommend you get your bearings of the city. Palermo sits on Sicily`s north-west coast, overlooked by the ridge of Monte Pellegrino. The historic center, which extends north from the station and contains most of the main sights, is made up of four quarters: La Kalsa, Albergheria, Capo and Vucciria. These are divided by the north-south Via Maqueda and the east-west Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which crosses it at a point known as the Quattro Canti, the `four corners`. Running parallel to Via Maqueda, Via Roma is another important thoroughfare. To the north, the 19th-century `new town` is the city`s main shopping district. As you wander the streets, you will pass churches and buildings built in distinct Arab, Norman and Byzantine styles, each paying homage to the time it controlled the region.

Enjoy a midday snack of a La `brioscia col gelato`, an absolute must when visiting Palermo, but make sure you choose your gelato (don`t call it ice cream!) wisely. Here`s one trick you`ll find useful when judging the quality of gelato - always look at the color of pistachio; if it`s too bright or unnaturally green, go somewhere else. If they don`t have pistachio, definitely go somewhere else! One unusual distinction of gelato in Palermo, is how the Sicilians eat their gelato. Of course, you can find it in a cone or cup like anywhere else, but the preferred way is eating gelato in a brioche.

Linger at the Praetorian Fountain, the gorgeous fountain that dominates the Piazza Pretoria in the heart of Palermo. Amazingly, these statues were created in Florence and transported to this spot in 1574. The statues depict ancient Greek gods including Zeus, Poseidon, and Apollo alongside nymphs, animals and other mythological figures.

Experience the atmosphere of the local markets. There`s something about markets, the energy is infectious, the smells are (generally) mouthwatering, and the colors are delightful. Plus, visiting a market shows you an authentic way of life. The three main markets are Ballaro, Capo, and Vuccaria, each within about 15 minutes` walk of the others in the Palermo city center. Capo and the Ballaro markets are full of aromatic produce, fresh meat, seasonal vegetables and street food stands. While Vuccaria has a bit of fresh foods, you`ll find more household items and packaged goods here. You will love them all, but if you`re short on time, a visit to at least Ballaro market is on the top things to do in Palermo.

Join Palermo`s café-goers for an early-evening aperitivo (typically between 6 - 8pm). Find one of the many cafes offering outside tables where you can sit back and people-watch over a glass of wine or cold beer and small board of assorted sandwiches, or other light snacks. In Italy, wine, food and friends go together.

Finish your day at one of the many delicious restaurants in town before heading back to your hotel for a restful night sleep. One of the best-known places to eat in Palermo is the Antica Focacceria San Francesco on Via Paternostro. Dating to 1834, this is the classic place for street food, which you can take away or eat in the old-world interior. Pay at the till before stepping up to the food counter and ordering your food; there`s a menu and price list on the walls. Local specialties you can try here include pane e panelle and arancine with a choice of filling.

Day 2 in Palermo

Wake up early and start your day with a visit to the Palermo Cathedral. Like many buildings in Palermo, the Cathedral, originally constructed in 1185, is characterized by a long history of additions, alterations and restoration. Inside the cathedral are several royal tombs, including that of Roger II, founder of the Kingsdome of Italy. The treasury houses a collection of jewels and religious relics, most notably a gem-encrusted crown from the 13th century. Because of its architecture marrying Western, Byzantine, and Islamic influences, the Palermo Cathedral has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the cathedrals in Cefalu and Monreale, the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, the Palatine Chapel, among others.

Next, pay a visit to the Capuchin Catacombs, one of the top things to do in Palermo and also one of the most macabre (great for horror and history lovers!). For over 400 years, the catacombs have been the final resting place for monks, celebrities, and the wealthy laypeople of Palermo. But unlike at many catacombs, you won`t just see bones, you`ll find well-preserved dead bodies displayed on shelves and hanging on walls. It is definitely an unusual attraction, reflecting the monks` belief in the temporary nature of life followed by salvation in Heaven.

As afternoon approaches, take a Palermo Food Tour. This is a great way to get to know a new city (and get recommendations about what to eat while you`re here). There is a fabulous Palermo Street Food Tour, StrEat Palermo, as the name implies, that will show you just how passionate the people of Palermo are about their food. And of course, you`ll get to enjoy many of its famous street foods.

Spend the remainder of your day enjoying a hike (or arrive by bus) to Mt. Pellegrino where you`ll be treated with some stunning panoramic views of Palermo as you travel over a cobbled path to the summit. And once you get there, be sure to visit the Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia. This unusual monument is built into a cave and is definitely worth checking out.

Wind down your day on the seafront enjoying the sunset. Just opposite Antica Gelateria Ilardo you`ll find a beautiful park (Foro Italico), where you can enjoy the breeze of the sea while lying down under a palm tree.

For dinner, dine with the locals in the area of Politeama-Libertà, a popular and elegant area where visitors will find a lot of bars and restaurants, which have a very upscale feel. This area offers several authentic Italian restaurants, as well as steakhouses, Japanese sushi, Mexican restaurants and sandwich shops. The food in this area is is a bit more expensive, but of great quality due to it being less dense with tourists and used more by the locals.

Day 3 in Palermo

Spend the day today soaking up the sun in Mondello, a seaside fishing village about fifteen minutes north of Palermo, which has become one of the most touristy places of Palermo. Here you can enjoy views of the stunning blue water from the sandy white crescent-shaped beach. And you can grab a table to try out some of the fresh catch of the day.

On your way back to town, we highly recommend a visit to the Cathedral of Monreale. This is one of the top Palermo sightseeing spots located just a bit outside of Palermo, sitting on a hill just 9 miles from the city is Monreale. The massive mosaics inside are similar to those at the Palatine Chapel only much, much larger. Here, you`ll be awed by the 130 mosaic scenes, 200 carved columns, and the imposing 65-foot-tall mosaic of Christ Pantocrator over the altar. Much of the mosaic work is covered in gold (experts estimate as much as 5000 pounds of it). Even if you`re not usually impressed by churches, this one is worth a stop. After your visit, wander the streets and grab a coffee or one of the many fresh juices at stands and cafes around town. The bus ride from Palermo is only about 35 minutes.

Head back to the city center of Palermo to watch an opera at Teatro Massimo. You might remember it from the final scenes of the Godfather, or you might have heard of it for being the third largest opera house in Europe (and the first in Italy). Whatever your level or knowledge or interest, the beauty of this building is simply going to blow your mind! There are guided tours each day, but we suggest getting the full experience of the theatre by getting a ticket to an opera or ballet performance.

Additional Days in Palermo

Should you be able to spend additional days in Palermo we recommend you take a day trip to the gorgeous city of Cefalu, about a 50-minute train ride from Palermo. Visit the beach, grab lunch by the sea, or wander the winding streets. Cefalu Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, climb the hill for panoramic views.

Alternatively, spend the day at the once powerful city of Segesta situated high on Mount Barbaro in northwest Sicily. Today, a visit to its main sites includes the beautiful temple and in-tact theater. This is an easy getaway just about an hour`s drive from Palermo.

Your Last Day In Palermo

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Agrigento

Welcome to the Agrigento! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Make your transfer to your destination, arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Begin your afternoon in the pleasant Old Town, a nice place to take a stroll with a beautiful network of steep alleys, cobblestone streets and stairways that are both picturesque and historic. Take some time to enjoy lunch at one of the small family run restaurants that serve delicious regional dishes. Also enjoy the unique shops, there are several streets that sell locally made products and various interesting souvenirs that are unique to this region.

We suggest you begin your route of Old Town at the lively street of Via Atenea, the historical center`s main street. Along the way, sign boards will indicate the monuments to see and visit. Make sure to pay a visit to the Holy Spirit Monastery (Monastero de Santo Spirito` in Italian), known for their delicious almond cakes made by nuns, and the San Gerlando Cathedral, the most famous of all the churches. During your tour, you can see the Greeks` Santa Maria Church and the Episcopal Palace as well.

After a long day of exploring the historic center, enjoy a relaxing dinner before heading back to your hotel for a restful night sleep.

Day 2 in Agrigento

Wake up early today and set out to explore the Valley of the Temples, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a string of five Greek temples that stretch along a ridge to the south of the city, a sight worthy of comparison to the Acropolis itself in Athens. The temples are usually divided into two zones: the Eastern Zone and Western Zone, each side of the main entrance and the road from the city center.

The first temple east of the entrance is the Tempio di Ercole or Temple of Hercules - closest to the road (Temple A). This is the most ancient of the remaining temples at Agrigento, dating back to the end of the 6th century BC, not long after the city was founded. This circular Doric temple was built with an extensive ground plan and dimensions of 6 by 15 pillars. The temple was destroyed by the Carthaginians in 406 BC, rebuilt by the Romans, and subsequently destroyed once more by an earthquake. From the temple there are views over the countryside to various other dotted ruins, including the so-called Tomba di Theron, a tower structure thought for years to have been the grave of a famous ruler of Greek Akragas, but now identified as a Roman funerary monument.

Next, heading east along the ridge is the large Tempio della Concordia or Temple of Concord (Temple F) - a very impressive almost complete structure due to its early conversion into a Christian church. Built around 440-450 BC, this is one of the best-preserved temples of the ancient world. Occasionally, for a special event, you may be able to enter the structure, although this is rare. The Agrigento temples are in the Doric style; an unusual feature is that they had stairways giving access to the roof; the site of these steps is visible in the Temple of Concord.

The track then continues above small cliffs at the edge of the ridge to the Tempio di Giunone or Temple of Juno. Partially ruined, it offers a great spot to look back down the ridge to the other temples.

To the west of the main entrance is the massive Tempio di Giove or Temple of Jupiter (Temple D), which was never completed and is now in ruins with little structure visible. Most notable is one of the huge stone statues now lying on the ground. Behind this is the small ruins of Tempio di Dioscure.

One of the western temples is the remains of one of the biggest temples of antiquity, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, (Temple B), the one dedicated to Zeus. This temple is an enormous mass of shattered stone blocks and pillars that an earthquake has scattered over a huge area. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to build up an image of this temple from the scattered, massive heaps of stone which we can see today. The ambitious building project was probably never completed, is likely to have been damaged by the Carthaginian invaders, and as recently as the 18th century, much of the temple`s stonework was carted off to the sea to build the docks at Porto Empedocle. There have been various speculative reconstructions of the temple`s design; a model of the most convincing recreation can be seen in the archaeological museum nearby.

The other ruins in this western part of the site are extensive, but much less dramatic. Low excavated walls and pavings mark the locations of various religious buildings and shrines. This appears to have been a sacred zone from the earliest days of the settlement of Akragas, dedicated to earth deities such as Demeter and Kore (Persephone). A temple-corner here, known as the Temple of the Dioscuri, was actually re-erected in the 19th century. On the upright columns you can still see the white stucco which was used to decorate the Agrigento temples.

Beyond the ruins is a pretty green gorge, once a water reservoir and fish-pond for Akragas, said to have constructed by Carthaginian prisoners of war. Nowadays, the heritage organization FAI has turned the valley into appealing citrus gardens, the Giardino della Kolymbetra, displaying traditional types of citrus trees, plants and irrigation methods. It`s a uplifting distraction from the dusty temple landscape above. There`s a small additional charge for visiting the gardens. The garden is entered from within the archaeological zone.

To put all these sites in context, it is well worth visiting the Archeological Museum. The museum is quite interesting and covers the history of Agrigento from the earliest human settlement. There are various exhibits relating to the Temple of Zeus, including a model of how the temple may have looked. Some of the more decorative stonework from the temples, including lion`s-head water-spouts, is held in the museum, so paying a visit here is a useful addition to your time at the temple site. Across the street from the museum is the ancient Roman quarter, which has quite a lot of noteworthy mosaics.

After a packed day of exploring the Valley of the Temples, spend the evening relaxing in Agrigento`s Old Town, reflecting on the magnificent Valley and the Ancient Greeks that knew how to make a lasting impression, even after two and half thousand years, it will leave you in awe.

Day 3 in Agregento

After the Valley of the temples, the Scala dei Turchi or `Turkish staircase` is undeniably the second most visited place in Agrigento. You will find this must-see spot! Located west of Agrigento, in Realmonte, the Scala dei Turchi is a white limestone cliff carved in a staircase shape by the wind and sea. The contrast between the whiteness of the cliff and the crystal clear waters is stunning. Perfect photo-ops here!

Once you arrive, go down the stairs to the first beach, and on your right you will see the Scala dei Turchi, about 500 feet away. Don`t hesitate to climb the so-called `steps` to admire the view, it`s really worth it! And if you want to enjoy a quiet moment or swim, a second, smaller beach is located just after.

We strongly recommend you to go there at sunset, it`s an unforgettable moment. Clearly one of the best places to visit in Agrigtento, and even in all of Sicily! And if you want to get a Bird`s-eye view of the cliff, you can also go to the viewpoint. It`s on the roadside, before arriving at the Scala. The panorama is also very beautiful there!

Continue along to the Eraclea Minoa, situated on the southern coast of Sicily at the mouth of the river Halycus. There are ruins here that are found near a modern town, but the surrounding landscape is even more charming by the white cliffs that overlook the sea, the pine trees, and the crystal clear sea water. Take some time to walk around the cliffs and enjoy the Eraclea Minoa beach before grabbing a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Additional Days in Agrigento

Should you be able to spend additional days in Agrigento we recommend a day trip to Sciacca, a small fishing port on the southwest coast that rises on a hillside above its harbor, this has been a popular spa town since the Roman times. In addition to the beautiful charm of this town, there are some beautiful and interesting churches to explore as well. Sciacca`s most unusual attraction, however, is about a miles east of town on Via E. Ghezzi. The Catello Incantato that was created by Filippo Bentivengna, who carved thousands of heads (devils, knights, gods, and historical figures) from the rocks behind his house in the early 1900`s.

Your Last Day in Agrigento

Depart your hotel for the ferry station or airport where you will head home or make your way to more Sicilian adventures. Savor the memories of a very special time in the Sicily region.

Day 1 in Sicily Island - Syracuse and Ortygia Island

Welcome to Sicily Island - Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian)! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the historical center of Syracuse located on the island of Ortygia. As you wander through the charming area, take in the beautiful baroque architecture as well as the city`s 13th century Castello Maniace. Created in 1232, visitors can walk through the castle grounds, explore the battlements and look out into the bay and the Ionian Sea. Other popular stops include the Bottari, Mastruarua, Spirduta, Maestranza and Turba districts, as well as the Piazza del Duomo and the Fontana Aretusa.

Stop at the Piazza del Duomo, one of the central squares in Ortygia and enjoy the beautiful Cathedral of Syracuse, a fantastic structure which dates back to the 5th century BC, the cathedral was actually built around the ancient Temple of Athena. The ancient Greek Doric columns of the temple can still be seen inside the Cathedral. This is one of the very few surviving examples in Sicily where a temple was converted into a church.

At the far end of the Piazza Duomo is the less impressive and unassuming Church of Saint Lucia, the patron saint of Syracuse. Saint Lucia was martyred near this site in 304 and a feast in her name is celebrated yearly on December 13th. The Church of Saint Lucia houses one of Caravaggio`s most famous paintings, appropriately titled, the Burial of Saint Lucy.

As the evening approaches, head to the seafront on the island of Ortygia which is full of restaurants and bars where people quench their thirst or sit and relax. In the evening, the area is bustling with people out for a drink or a meal. It has a great atmosphere and a beautiful backdrop with the lights reflecting on the water.

There are many night clubs along the coastline on the Alfeo Promenade. Some have dance floors on the beach so that you can dance under the moonlight.

Day 2 in Sicily Island - Syracuse and Ortygia Island

Wake up early and start your day with a visit to the lively outdoor street market on Via de Benedictis. Be sure to try a Sicilian specialty, such as snails or pistachios, and chat to the colorful vendors, who are happy to show you their wares. Your senses will be on overload as you inhale the aromas, marvel at the beautiful colors and sights of everything you see.

Visit the Greek Theatre located at the Archaeological Park in the western part of Syracuse; it is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of the region. Created in 470 BC, this ancient amphitheatre played host to some legendary play writes such as Aischylos and Sophocles, and has a diameter of 452 ft. Today, much of the originally semi-circular seating survives in excellent condition, although it is sometimes covered with wood to preserve its quality.

Another highlight within the Archaeological Park is the impressive Roman Amphitheatre. This structure remains in a remarkable condition despite its old age. Constructed in the 3rd century, this Amphitheatre was partly made from the actual rock with a large arched entrance at either end. You can still see much of the seating on both sides, and you can also see the remains of the underground passages and rooms that would have been used by the gladiators who fought here. Although some of the structure is now overgrown, it still looks absolutely fantastic and the moss and greenery give it character.

Next, spend some time at Latomia del Paradiso (quarries). Syracuse has several different quarries which have been worked since the 6th century and mined for stone. This stone has been used extensively in the construction of many of the city`s landmarks and homes. Within this quarry is an impressive 196 ft long and 36 ft high gallery, this cave is truly beautiful and quiet surreal. Surrounded by beautiful woodland, the quarry is quite hidden and without looking, you would not know it’s there. This Latomia is also known as the Ear of Dionysius, legend has it, that if you stand at one end of the cave, you can hear whispered conversations from the other end.

Another quarry worth visiting is the Latomia dei Cappuccini. This immense quarry can still be entered today. Once an underground cavern, the quarry has now collapsed and is open to the elements. Throughout the area you can see massive irregular columns that sprout out of the ground at strange angles. In addition, much of the quarry is now covered in a beautiful garden that has been maintained by the Capuchin Monks, who are neighbors to the quarry.

Make some time to spend at the Syracuse Museo Archeologico. The Archaeological Museum is located on the Via Teocrito and offers a great collection of relics and artifacts collected from the surrounding area. Exhibits follow a chronological order and include 6th century pottery, bronze tomb reliefs, ancient weaponry and tools, and terracotta earthenware. This museum provides a fascinating look at how Syracuse has developed over the years.

If time allows, pay a visit to the fascinating Temple of Apollo located on the Island of Ortygia. This temple dates back to 570 BC and excavated 1938 - 1943, and is actually the oldest in Sicily. It has had various uses throughout the years such as a Byzantine church, an Islamic mosque, a Norman church, and Spanish barracks, reflecting Sicily`s various ruling groups. Today, visitors can see the rectangular foundation of the structure, much of the walls, and some of the ornate columns. You can`t walk inside the temple ruins, but they are clearly visible from the fence that surrounds them.

Spend your evening in the delightful Piazza di Archimede, this square is one of the main gathering areas on the Island and has several notable features. Highlighted in the center of the square is the beautiful Fontana di Artemide. This fountain depicts various ancient scenes and is also surrounded by some small palm trees. The square is a great place to explore and offers several cafes and restaurants.

After a busy day of sightseeing head back to your hotel and a restful night sleep.

Day 3 in Sicily Island - Syracuse and Ortygia Island

Spend the day today soaking up the stunning natural landscape by cycling the Rossana Maiorca cycle path. The path was opened in 2008 replacing the ancient railway line that connected the Targia station to Syracuse . It measures about 4.5 miles and connects one of the most beautiful and scenic parts of the city. The stretch offers several places of archaeological, historical and naturalistic interest. The actual track starts from the former passage at Santa Lucia level (on the sidewalk), and then enters the dirt road up to the Targia near the former Mattatoio. Along the route you will be nearby the Monument to the Italian Fallen of Africa from which the dirt track begins. There are various side accesses to explore the rocky cast with the Carabiniere rock and the Due Fratelli rock. The track still features the abandoned building of the former Santa Panagia station; the small gorge where the Greeks had built the port of Trogilo; the Byzantine oratory of Santa Panagia; and the tonnara of Santa Panagia.

Alternatively, visit the coastal town of Fontane Bianche located down the coast from the small town of Arenella. This is a beautiful coastal resort town and a perfect place to escape from the city and enjoy the beach. Fontane Bianche is a horseshoe shaped beach that offers golden sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. Beach bars and cafes line the beach where you can enjoy a relaxing meal.

Additional Days in Sicily Island - Syracuse and Ortygia Island

Should you be able to spend additional days in Syracuse we recommend you visit the Riserva Naturale Orientata Pantalica (Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica). This large area offers over 5,000 tombs cut into the rock near open stone quarries, most of them dating from the 13th to 7th centuries BC. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Alternatively, take a boat tour around the island of Ortygia, through the various caves and grottos. The tours leave frequently during the peak season. Or, take a boat ride in and around Syracuse along the River Cyane, 3 miles west of the city along Via Elorina. From May to September, a boat trip can take you to the source of this river. Along the way you`ll see clusters of papyrus plants. The boat also goes by the meager ruins of Olympeion, a temple erected at the end of the 6th century.

Your Last Day In Sicily Island - Syracuse and Ortygia Island

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1 in Taormina

Welcome to Taormina! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There is so much for you to see and do.

The town of Taormina lies on the east coast of Sicily and offers mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean Sea and Mt. Etna volcano. Once you arrive, we recommend you get acquainted with the historic town by walking the winding cobblestone streets, hidden alleys and stairs. Corso Umberto is the main street that connects the Old town from Porta Messina to Porta Catania. The entire street with its squares and terraces, shops, open-air cafes, and lanes leading from it, seems made just for sauntering and shopping to savor the views of Mt. Etna and the sea.

Stop at the bustling square, the Piazza IX Aprile, right in front of San Giuseppe, the piazza`s beautiful tiled floor, combined with the dramatic rising rocks behind the church and the epic sea view on the other side gives this square a unique charm. Vendors, cafes and tourist are all around the square and if you`re lucky, you may get to see a wedding taking place. Grab some lunch here and take some time to admire the Chiesa di San Giuseppe, the historic baroque church overlooking the square. The beauty of this church is something you will never forget!

Corso Umberto ends at the 1400 city gate, Porta Catania, emblazoned with the Aragon coat-of-arms. Near it stands the three-storied Palazzo Duca di Santo Stéfano, built at the same time as Porta Catania. It is easy to recognize because of its Gothic windows, fish-tail crenellations, and detailed stonework along the top. Concerts are held in the Great Hall, and two rooms display works by the sculptor Giuseppe Mazzullo (1913-88).

End your afternoon at Taormina`s most famous landmark, the Greek Theater. The theater was originally built in the 3rd-century BC under Hiero II of Syracuse. But under Roman rule in the 2nd-century BC, it was completely rebuilt with all the characteristics of a Roman theater. The perfectly semicircular cavea rises in stepped seating to an upper diameter of 358 ft, the stage stands above the level of the orchestra, and the beautifully decorated stage loft is so high that its sides adjoin the top rows of seats to create an enclosed space. A fortuitous gap in the wall of the loft frames Taormina`s most celebrated view of the surrounding area as far as Mount Etna, one that has been immortalized in paintings and photographs as one of Italy`s most iconic. We recommend you stay to watch the sunset from behind the stage which boasts the natural scenery of Mount Etna and the bay of Naxos - absolutely beautiful!

For dinner, enjoy some authentic Sicilian cuisine at a relaxing café or restaurant along the Corso Umberto I promenade. There are so many yummy places to choose from, it will be hard to pick.

Day 2 in Taormina

Wake up early and start your day with a stroll through the Garden of Villa Comunale. This irregularly shaped park is home to buildings similar to the style on Isola Bella, the quirky structures are a highlight of the garden, as well as the amazing views the garden offers.

Then take a visit to Chiesa Madonna della Rocca. Go to the Via Circonvallazione, which runs parallel to Corso Umberto, and a stepped road leads from here up to the Modonna della Rocca, a chapel whose ceiling is the rough rock from which it was carved. The route continues up to Castellod di Taormina, 1,305 ft above sea-level on Monte Tauro. This castle with its tower stands on the site of the ancient Acropolis, and the view from here is stunning.

From the Madonna della Rocca church continue to the picturesque mountain village of Castelmola. The village is about 3 miles from the center of town and accessible by bus link. Here you`ll discover the ruins of another medieval castle, narrow streets, as well as some more spectacular views. Don`t forget to taste the almond wine, a specialty of the village.

Head back down into Taormina city center for a lunch break before taking a cable car to get to Isola Bella (Beautiful Island), a much faster way than suffering through the traffic down the meandering mountain road. The small rock-bound island is a nature preserve, almost connected to the mainland by a sandy beach. You can cross to walk the paths around its perimeter and enjoy the views from its terraces. All along the shore below Taormina are coves and beaches for swimming, which you can reach by paths. Just north of Mazzaro are more beaches at Spisone, Mazzeo, and Letojanni.

Finish your day in Giardini-Naxos for a waterfront stroll. This area offers great entertainment and most bars and clubs here stay open way past midnight, at least in the summer. This is a fantastic spot to watch the sun go down over Mount Etna.

After a busy day of sightseeing head back to your hotel and a restful night sleep.

Day 3 in Taormina

On your last day in Taormina, we highly recommend going on an excursion to Etna, it`s an unforgettable trip to Europe`s highest and most active volcano. Here visitors can sample delicious Etna wines accompanied by the best local produce while enjoying true Sicilian hospitality.

Alternatively, if you`re a beach lover and may want to go back to spend more time in Isola Bella. If you like snorkeling, you can go to Azzurra Grotta d`Isola Bella. We recommend a boat trip to visit the surroundings of the island including the caves such as Grotto Amoretta (Lovers Cave) .

Finish your day at the opera, this is a must do experience at Cine Teatro San Giorgio while in Taormina. You can enjoy a refreshment on the panoramic balcony with amazing views over Taormina and the Ionian Sea before the show. Then embark on an extraordinary journey with the most famous arias and duets from the greatest Italian operas. You will be fascinated with music from operas such as Le Nozze di Figaro by W.A.Mozart, La Traviata by G.Verdi, Madame Butterfly, Tosca, La Bohème by G.Puccini and Elisir d’Amore by G.Donizetti, interpreted by professional singers who have performed in the most important Italian and international theaters, performed with piano accompaniment.

Additional Days in Taormina

Should you be able to spend additional days in Taormina we recommend you visit the Gole dell`Alcantara, a dramatic gorge with incredible rock shapes. The Alcántara River flows along the northern side of Mount Etna, and several thousand years ago, a lava flow from an eruption blocked the river. The water caused the lava to cool much faster than usual, so it crystallized into a column formation. Over time, the river eroded the columns, regaining a channel through and wearing them into the dramatic shapes you see today. The gorge is now part of the Gole Alcantara Botanical and Geological Park, where you can descend to the river level by a lift, walk the trails, and in the summer, wade across the river.

Your Last Day In Taormina

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer, if so a representative will meet you at the hotel, in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.

Day 1: Ciao Rome

Indulge all your senses in the imperial city of Rome, your introduction to a memorable encounter with Italy which will have you returning for more. Spend your afternoon relaxing after your journey, or explore the ancient city streets before joining your Travel Director and travel companions for a Welcome Dinner. This evening, we take an orientation drive past Rome's most magnificent sights which we will have an opportunity to explore tomorrow.

Crowne Plaza St. Peter's

Dinner

Day 2: Explore Ancient Rome and the Vatican City Dive Into Culture

Our encounter with Rome begins in the Holy See as we Dive Into Culture with a visit to the Vatican Museums in the company of a Local Specialist to admire the masterpieces that have been collected by Popes throughout the centuries. Gaining priority admission, we admire the magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and then visit St. Peter's Basilica, the greatest church in Christendom, to see Michelangelo's sorrowful Pietà. Crossing the Tiber, we venture into Ancient Rome to view the Circus Maximus, once the site of thrilling chariot races. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Rome. Admire the Spanish Steps or toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to secure your speedy return.

Crowne Plaza St. Peter's

Breakfast

Day 3: Journey to the Floating City of Venice

This morning we venture north through the valley of the Tiber into the green and golden landscapes of Umbria. We pass the hilltop towns of Orte and Orvieto, traveling past Tuscany's terraced olive groves and across the Apennine Mountains bound for Venice, the 'Queen of the Adriatic'.

Novotel Mestre Castellana

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Onwards to Verona Make Travel Matter

Cruise by private launch into the heart of Venice this morning, where we will see the city's most celebrated sights including the Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica and the ornate Doge's Palace. Next we witness first-hand the intricate craft of glassblowing – your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps to preserve this precious Venetian tradition for generations to come. Beyond their talent and skill, you’ll admire the exquisite pieces Venice is famous for, perhaps choosing to take one home as a souvenir to remind you of this special visit. Soak up the pageantry and elegance of Venice before continuing to Verona, home of Shakespeare's ill-fated lovers Romeo and Juliet, where we'll spend the night.

Leopardi

Breakfast

Day 5: Admire Pisa and on to Florence Connect with Locals

Pisa's UNESCO-listed Square of Miracles is our first stop today, where we will have the opportunity to view the Leaning Tower before traveling on to Florence. Explore the birthplace of the Renaissance and home of the Medici dynasty, whose penchant for beautiful art and architecture created one of the cultural centers of the world. Tonight, enjoy a Be My Guest experience set against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves.

Grand Mediterraneo

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: All Roads Lead to Rome

We join a Local Specialist today to delve into the rich medieval and Renaissance history of Florence. Our sightseeing tour will take us to the Piazza della Signoria with its impressive sculptures and imposing palazzi. Wandering through the narrow streets we encounter the multi-colored marble Duomo, the famous Baptistery and the almost 700-year-old Ponte Vecchio, a spectacular feat of engineering from the Middle Ages which is today lined with jewellers. Our journey continues through Umbria to the valley of the Tiber River and back to Rome. Toast to a memorable holiday with newfound friends at a Farewell Dinner.

Grand Tiberio

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Farewell Rome

After breakfast, it’s time to say a fond arrivederci to Rome, Italy and your travel companions as you return home with wonderful memories of this magnificent destination.

Breakfast