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15 Best Sicily Tours

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is one of the most spellbinding parts of Italy. Shaped like a ball being kicked by the Italian boot, the island is home to turquoise waters and white sand beaches, UNESCO listed Greek temples, and one of Europe’s highest active volcanoes, Mount Etna.

The main cities on the island are the capital Palermo, Catania, Syracuse, and Taormina. Each of them offers a totally different but unforgettable experience of the island.

Because of the Godfather, Sicily is well known as a stronghold of the mafia, but this shouldn’t put you off. In fact, you can even take part in tours which will show you how locals are fighting against the mafia.

One of the best things about Sicily is the food. When you’re here, don’t miss arancini (delicious filled and deep-fried rice balls), an array of bread and pasta, and of course, cannoli. You could even try a cooking class so that you can impress your friends and family with what you’ve learned on your trip.

To help you navigate the biggest island in the Med and make the most of your trip, here’s our list of the 15 best tours in Sicily.

1. Palermo 3-Hour Street Food and History Walking Tour

This wonderful three-hour tour of Palermo will see you wandering through the beautiful historical center of Palermo and trying some of the best traditional foods that the city has to offer.

A knowledgeable and professional guide will show you some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Cathedral, Piazza della Vergogna, and Quattro Canti. In between the sights, you’ll stop off to try five different street-foods, a drink (alcoholic or soft – your choice), and the famous cannoli.

Not only will this give you a taste of the island’s food, but you’ll learn about the capital of the island too.

2. Off-Road ATV Tour of Mount Etna

No trip to Sicily is complete without a visit to one of Europe’s highest volcanoes, Mount Etna. But this is a tour with a difference; instead of exploring on foot, you’ll make your way there on a quad bike.

This exhilarating tour will take you through the Alcantara gorges towards one of Sicily’s best-known winemaking regions, Castiglione. You’ll see ancient lava flows and have the chance to explore Coruccio caves before climbing to almost 2,000m to appreciate Etna.

Insurance and an expert guide are included in the price of this tour.

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3. From Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Tour

If you’d prefer to see Mount Etna in a less adrenaline-packed way, this sunset tour from Catania is a great alternative to an ATV. On this six-hour tour, you’ll be accompanied by a guide who is not only knowledgeable about the mountain but all of the nature that calls it home.

Your guide will lead you up to 2,000m via soft trekking, where there is a lookout point over the Bove Valley. You’ll see Etna’s volcanic crater and explore one of the volcano’s many caves.

As you enjoy the sunset, you’ll be treated to a street-food snack and a glass of wine, all included in the price.

4. Giardini Naxos, Taormina, and Castelmola 5-Hour Tour

Take advantage of hotel pick-up and drop-off on this fantastic five-hour tour from Catania. You’ll head to the seaside town of Giardini Naxos comfortably by bus, before heading further along the Ionian Coast to the village of Castelmola.

On this tour, you’ll have the chance to swim in the cool blue waters of the Ionian Sea and visit a nature reserve on the island Isola Bella.

Round the day off at the hilltop town of Taormina, which offers views of Mount Etna. See ancient fortresses and theatres, and for a little extra, there is also the opportunity to visit the Greco-Roman amphitheater, which is still in use today.

5. Inspector Montalbano Locations Tour of Southeast Sicily

This tour is a real treat for any fans of the novels by Andrea Camilleri or the TV show starring Luca Zingaretti. Although the towns are given invented names in the books, they’re based on real Sicilian locations.

Your English-speaking driver will pick you up in an air-conditioned car before you head to the sights of Mànnara (Vigata) and Punta Secca (Marinella). There’s even a chance to enjoy a meal in the Da Enzo a Mare restaurant, where the fictional inspector spends a lot of time – although this is not included in the price of the tour.

6. Sicily: The Godfather Filming Locations Tour

One of the most famous and critically-acclaimed films of all time, The Godfather is based on the book of the same name by Mario Puzo.

This six-hour tour allows you to follow in the footsteps of Don Corleone into the hidden corners of Sicily that you’d never even dream of visiting by yourself. You’ll visit some of the film’s most recognizable locations, such as St Lucy’s Church and the cathedral of Forza d’Agro, where two of the wedding scenes were shot.

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from Catania or Taormina, an English-speaking guide, and transport in an air-conditioned car or minivan.

7. Palermo: Anti-Mafia 3-Hour Walking Tour

Unfortunately, the Mafia isn’t nearly as glamorous as it’s made out to be in the Godfather and other popular culture; it’s a huge problem in Italian and Sicilian society. The Mafia has decimated Italy’s economy and the involvement of high-level politicians, judges, and bankers has been exposed in recent decades. On a smaller scale, shops and restaurants are expected to pay “protection money,” with dire consequences if they refuse or don’t keep up with their payments.

This three-hour tour is a fantastic way to learn about the local businesses that are standing up to Mafia extortion with the “Pago chi non paga” movement, which culminates in the Antica Focacceria San Francesco restaurant.

The cost of the tour includes a donation to the organization Addiopizzo, the group which supports those businesses who refuse to pay extortion money.

8. Noto, Modica, and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania

Enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off in Catania or Taormina to discover Sicily’s baroque side. You’ll visit the towns of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa, and discover some of the island’s most fascinating architecture.

Get acquainted with the town of Noto, rebuilt after a 1693 earthquake destroyed the town. Then, you’ll head on to Modica, where a visit to Sicily’s oldest chocolate factory is in store. Round off your day at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ragusa, a testament to the Baroque period.

You’ll be transported between the sites in a comfortable, air-conditioned car or minivan driven by your guide for the day.

9. Syracuse and Noto Full-Day Tour

The ideal trip for the history buff in your life, this tour will enable you to discover Sicily’s Ancient Greek influences in the towns of Syracuse and Noto.

This eight-hour tour will be led by a knowledgeable guide and is available in three languages. They will show you the remains of Ortygia’s Apollo and Athena temples, before visiting other ancient Greek sites.

Not only does this trip show you the Greek history of Sicily, you can also feast your eyes on Caravaggio’s paintings in Syracuse’s Basilica de Santa Lucia.

Round the day off by visiting the Baroque village of Noto, which dates as far back as the Early Bronze Age.

10. From Taormina: Chic Panarea and Stromboli Full-day Tour

This tour is a relaxing full day cruise which will enable you to see two of the breathtakingly beautiful Aeolian islands via private motorboat – there’s even a bar on board.

Take a stroll along the white sand of Panarea’s beaches before wandering the cobbled streets of the island, which are lined with shops, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family.

You’ll then head to Stromboli, aka “the lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” so called because it’s one of Italy’s three active volcanoes. If you’re lucky, watch the lava spitting out of the crater against the backdrop of the Mediterranean sunset.

11. Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans Full-Day Excursion from Palermo

The west of Sicily isn’t as popular with tourists as the east, but after going on this tour, you’ll be wondering why that is. First stop is the ancient Greek site of Segesta, one of the island’s best-preserved archaeological sites.

Then, you’ll head to the incredible Erice, a medieval town perched precipitously on top of a hill overlooking the blue of the Mediterranean. Finally, see the famous salt pans of Trapani.

The whole day will be full of spectacular seaside views. There’s no need to worry about transport, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

12. From Catania: Alcantara Valley by Mountain Bike

This is a great tour for the most adventurous visitor. The two-hour duration means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day relaxing or seeing more of the island’s captivating sites.

The Alcantara Valley is where you’ll find the unusual Gurne dell’Alcantara, a group of 16 lakes and waterfalls formed on the basalt riverbed of the valley. Your qualified mountain biking guide will regale you with information about the area, as well as making sure you’re safe and comfortable during your trip.

Most of the trip is in the lowlands, so don’t be put off if you’re not an experienced mountain biker.

13. Agrigento and Valley of the Temples Day Trip from Taormina

The Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily’s most popular visitor attractions; you certainly won’t want to miss seeing them while you’re on the island. This day trip is a great way to see the UNESCO World Heritage site, although you may have to pinch yourself to be reminded that you’re not in Greece.

Enjoy the island’s landscapes in a luxury air-conditioned car, which will pick you up from either Taormina or Catania, while a multilingual guide gives you information about the day ahead.

You’ll be provided with a delicious packed lunch, full of Sicilian street food treats, which you can enjoy before visiting the stunning Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale.

14. From Trapani: Full-Day Cruise to Favignana and Levanzo

A chance to witness some of Sicily’s lesser-visited yet enchanting coastal islands, take this cruise to discover the charms of the Egadi Islands, off the west coast. The eight-hour tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy a stroll through the streets of Favignana, or even better, relax on the beautiful beaches and work on your tan.

Get back on the boat for lunch and wine, before heading to the smallest of the Egadi Islands, Levanzo. Here, you’ll have a chance to see Neolithic cave paintings or simply explore the port town.

Bring your swimming costume as there’ll be a chance to stop for a swim in the sea on the leisurely voyage back to Trapani.

15. Sicily 8-Day Small Group Tour

If you have plenty of time, this eight-day tour is perfect for a comprehensive Sicilian experience. Enjoy three nights in Taormina, two in Syracuse, and two more in Palermo, plus the luxury of being transported around in an eight-seater Mercedes minivan.

You will have a local guide for the majority of your activities, which include several food tastings, visits to quaint mountain villages, and walking tours of all the towns and cities where you’ll stop.

This tour is sure to be an unforgettable experience of the Mediterranean’s largest island.

15 Best Sicily Tours:

• Palermo 3-Hour Street Food and History Walking Tour
• Off-Road ATV Tour of Mount Etna
• From Catania: Mount Etna Sunset Tour
• Giardini Naxos, Taormina, and Castelmola 5-Hour Tour
• Inspector Montalbano Locations Tour of Southeast Sicily
• Sicily: The Godfather Filming Locations Tour
• Palermo: Anti-Mafia 3-Hour Walking Tour
• Noto, Modica, and Ragusa: The Baroque Tour from Catania
• Syracuse and Noto Full-Day Tour
• From Taormina: Chic Panarea and Stromboli Full-day Tour
• Segesta, Erice and Salt Pans Full-Day Excursion from Palermo
• From Catania: Alcantara Valley by Mountain Bike
• Agrigento and Valley of the Temples Day Trip from Taormina
• From Trapani: Full-Day Cruise to Favignana and Levanzo
• Sicily 8-Day Small Group Tour

Ebooks about Sicily by our history editors. Start reading in just a few minutes! (Links are to Amazon.Com but these books are also available from Kobo and other vendors, and at some libraries with OverDrive and Hoopla.) • Sicily: The Time Traveler's Guide The island in your pocket in this destination guide. • The Peoples of Sicily: A Multicultural Legacy The story of the world's most conquered island. • Time Traveler's Guide to Norman-Arab-Byzantine Palermo, Monreale and Cefalù Details. • Sicily's Queens 1061-1266 The first collection of biographies of these medieval women. • The Kingdom of Sicily 1130-1860 Seven centuries of Sicilian history. • Queen Margaret of Sicily The life of Sicily's greatest queen. • Sicilian Food and Wine: The Cognoscente's Guide Discover Sicilian cuisine. • Women of Sicily: Saints, Queens and Rebels Meet the historical women of Sicily. • Sicilian Genealogy and Heraldry Finding ancestral roots in Sicily. • Sicilian Court Culture 1061-1266: The Time Traveler's Guide Visit the Middle Ages! --> Wel­come to the world's fa­vorite Si­cilian web­site, with over two mil­lion read­ers each year, around 200 at this very mo­ment. Each of the fol­low­ing topics is a gate­way to many (print­able) pages. Come vis­it our sun­ny is­land. We've been ex­pect­ing you for three thou­sand years!

» Why Si­cily? 12 cul­tures in 1. » Top 12 destina­tions in Si­cily. » Sights to see, things to do. » Scenic Places & ge­og­ra­phy. » Tours of Si­cily & more. » Hotels and other lodg­ing. » Cooking Classes at a winery. » Cooking Classes with Vince Clemente. » Restaurants reviewed. » Travel Faqs with real in­fo. » Sicily Air­ports - get­ting there. » Airlines servicing Si­cily. » Travel Ideas for your visit. » Sicily Maps - roads & cities. » Sicily Weather fore­casts, temps. » Beaches in Sicily - a selection. » Travel Services . Some­thing dif­ferent. » Student Tours of Sicily - discovery. » Palermo - guide to the city. » Villas in Sicily & how to find one. » Golf courses & resorts. » Sightseeing and touring. » Tour Guides listed by locality. » Transportation - trains, buses... » Sicily for Children . For families! » Young Students . Study resources. » Travel Guide Books reviewed. » Sicilian Genealogy . Family history. » Travel Agent Resources and ad­vice. » Sicily Facts and figures. » Sicilian Culture - all things Si­cilian. » Sicilian Literature - then and now. » Arts and Artists . Creativity. » Sicilian Identity - ethnic legacy. » Religions of Sicily . Faiths. » Peoples of Sicily . Meet the peoples! » Invisible Sicily - the unseen. » Kingdom of Sicily - the book. » Sicilian - language of a people.

From our resi­dent his­to­ri­ans, a new wave of books about Si­ci­ly, each a first! The Peoples of Si­cily : The first over­view of all the civ­iliza­tions that pop­ulat­ed our is­land. Women of Sicily : The first book on the his­tor­ical women of Si­cily writ­ten in En­glish by a Si­cilian wom­an in Si­cily. The King­dom of Sicily 1130-1266 : A landmark work. Sicilian Food & Wine : The first guide of its kind pub­lished in En­glish. Sicilian Genealogy : The first guide to Si­cilian fam­ily his­tory re­search. Margaret, Queen of Si­cily : The first biog­raphy of this me­dieval queen. Sicilian Studies : The first En­glish guide to the study of Sicily's his­to­ry and cul­ture. The Vine Whisperer : Mak­ing wine and doing busi­ness in Si­cily.

10 best places to visit in Sicily

Mar 11, 2024 • 8 min read

From the timeless beauty of its coastlines to its fascinating relics of the past, here are the best places to go in Sicily © FilippoBacci / Getty Images © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

The secret was out long before HBO chose to shoot the second season of The White Lotus here: an undisputed Mediterranean beauty since the time of the ancients, the Italian island of Sicily shamelessly seduces anyone who so much as dips one little toe in its turquoise, gin-clear waters.

From speakeasy coves to exhilarating sweeps of white, black or golden sand, Sicily’s emblematic paradise beaches require little introduction. Ditto for fiery Mt Etna, granita , crunchy cannoli oozing ricotta cream and its top-drawer food scene .

Yet that's tip-of-the-iceberg stuff! Look beyond the Sicilian coast and kitchen, and you find a kaleidoscope of places to visit – bursting with artistic masterpieces, cultural jewels or natural beauty in spades depending on which hilltop village, baroque town or rural retreat (be it a winery or lemon farm) you pinpoint on the treasure map. Scenic trains, buses and boats make getting around Sicily part of the experience for adventurers – or smooth the way with a rental car, the secret to accessing the most remote creases of the island’s mountainous interior.

With just a few days in Sicily, stay in one place. Count two weeks for a grand tour of the island’s Arabesque cupolas, Byzantine mosaics, ancient Greek temples and volcanic vineyards. Wherever and whenever you go , expect silver-screen stuff. 

Best for urban culture

Sicily’s capital assures urban adventure. Provocative street art, rough-cut food markets pulsating with local life, and pertinent multimedia Mafia-focused exhibitions provide up-to-minute commentary on this endlessly fascinating city. Art and architectural buffs meanwhile can swoon over a smorgasbord of treasures harking back centuries: Cappella Palatina in Palazzo dei Normanni ; Chiesa e Monastero di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria with its speakeasy pasticceria (bakery and cake shop) in a cloister; and courtyard-garden-clad Museo Archeologico Regionale Antonio Salinas are veteran favorites. 

Planning tip: Factor in a half-day bus trip to Cattedrale di Monreale . The glittering gold mosaics inside Sicily's finest example of Norman architecture leave you dumbstruck.

2. Aeolian Islands

Best for beach- and island-hopping

Boats, beaches and buckets of granita  (crushed ice) soaked in fruits of the land: island-hop around the Aeolians to gorge on Sicilian dolce vita. Milazzo , on Sicily’s northeastern Tyrrhenian Coast, is the springboard for Liberty Lines ferries and hydrofoils to this seven-island slice of paradise. Scoot around the largest island Lipari ; scale a volcano and unearth black beaches on primordial Stromboli ; and pair sweet dessert-wine tastings with fresh capers on lush green Salina . If you have time (and the leg-power), don’t miss the spectacular hike up what feels like a “stairway to heaven” on the old-world, donkey-powered islet of Alicudi. 

Planning tip: On Salina, combine family beach time in the shallow pools formed by concrete breakwaters on Lingua’s Spiaggia Biscotto with Sicily’s best granita on the seafront at Da Alfredo . On Salina's southern coast, the ricotta granita peppered with island-grown candied capers and toasted capers at Pa.Pe.Rò al Glicine is reason enough to visit bijou fishing hamlet Rinella.

3. Mount Etna

Best for a volcanic family expedition

There’s no age limit to getting up high on Sicily’s emblematic active volcano – Europe’s largest. Three-and-a-half centuries after burying neighboring Catania in volcanic ash, Mt Etna still broods over the city. A combo of cable car (up to 2500m/8200ft from Rifugio Sapienza ), 4WD vehicle and volcanological mountain guides makes light work of scaling this fiery beauty that still erupts, spangling the night sky with lava fountains and magma bubbles. If you’re with active teens, skip the cable car for a more challenging hike on Etna’s quieter northern slopes or bike up with a mountain bike guide. 

Planning tip: The height to which you’re allowed without a guide changes depending on volcanic activity. Check in with licensed guides Guide Vulcanologiche Etna Nord for updates and guided hikes (from age six; best March to June and September), snow-shoeing and ski mountaineering expeditions (December to February).

4. Ragusa Ibla

Best for baroque beauty

It needed an earthquake in 1693 to usher in Sicily’s glorious golden age. In the island’s southeast, lose yourself in the baroque labyrinth of nooks and lanes in Ragusa Ibla , awash with the decorative masks and chubby-cheeked putti (cherubs) sculpted in stone, that rose from the ashes. Don’t miss the Duomo , designed by superstar architect Rosario Gagliardi, and an intimate tour by a family member around aristocratic Palazzo Arezzo di Trifiletti from the same era. Refuel over fig, pistachio or sweet Passito di Noto wine gelato at Gelati DiVini . 

Planning tip: Combine Ragusa with Modica , Scicli and Noto to create a memorable baroque-town itinerary in Sicily’s southeastern corner.

5. Reserva Naturale della Zingaro

Best for scenic coastal walks

Straddling the grand sweep of western Sicily’s Golfo di Castellammare, the island’s oldest nature reserve is a thing of beauty. Don comfy shoes and a daypack with water, a swim kit and a lunchtime picnic, and stride out along its sublime walking trails beaded with pristine coves and exhibitions in trailside huts celebrating local flora, fauna and traditional tuna fishing. If snorkeling rocks your boat, bring a mask, flippers and tuba – the crystalline waters here have some of the island’s finest snorkeling and diving.

Planning tip: Post-hike, drive 30 minutes to Segesta to admire its majestic Greek temples glowing in the late afternoon’s soft golden light.

6. Caltagirone

Best for arts and crafts

From decorative grave vases spun in clay to accompany the dead, to lifelike marionettes, coral jewelry and elaborate 18th-century maiolica statuettes, Sicily’s arts and crafts heritage is immense. In central Sicily , roll up your sleeves in Caltagirone where ceramic production has been the town’s lifeblood since the Middle Ages. An abundance of wood from surrounding forests has always kept the kiln fires burning, and  Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte , the town’s monumental staircase, zig-zagging from old town to new since the 17th century razzle-dazzles with 142 steps paved in hand-painted majolica. Learn the backstory in the Museo della Ceramica , shop for ceramics and try your hand at throwing a pot of your own.

Planning tip: Visit on July 24 or 25 during Caltagirone’s Festa di San Giacomo when 4000 oil lamps light up the scalinata (staircase) after dark.

7. Parco Naturale Regionale delle Madonie

Best for getting right off the beaten track

Sicily doesn’t get wilder or more remote. Motor south from the beach-busy Tyrrhenian Coast into the folds of the rugged Monti Madonie. Ramble around medieval hilltop villages, where the lifestyle is overwhelmingly traditional, the sense of history palpable, and the mountain cuisine exceptional. Overnight in an agriturismo (farm stay) such as Casale Drinzi , where kitchens burst with wild forest mushrooms, suino nero (pork from local black pigs) and ricotta cheese fresh from the sheep. Take your foot off the gas, slow right down and detox.  

Planning tip: To really get under the skin of this mountainous region, hook up with a nature guide at Madonie Explorers . Forest-bathe between ash trees and harvest manna with one of the world’s last-remaining manna farmers.

Best for an A to Z of Sicilian ocean fish

Its prized location between the big blue sea of the Ionian Coast and the smoking hulk of Mt Etna makes Sicily’s second-largest city a great base for exploring the eastern part of the island. Catania ’s striking architecture reads like a potted history of Sicily: many of its distinctive, black-and-white palazzi  (mansions) and churches are built from the very volcanic rock that Etna rained down on Catania in 1669. 

Wraparound views from its church rooftops (Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata and Chiesa di San Nicolò l’Arena in Piazza Dante’s Benedictine monastery complex are the best) are spectacular. For foodies, one address stands out: the raucous fresh-fish market La Pescheria , swimming with swordfish, sardines, tuna, octopus, all sorts. Arrive when it opens at 7am for the pick of the ocean. 

9. Valley of the Temples

Best for history nerds and romantics

That UNESCO’s temple logo is a mirror of star-turn Tempio della Concordia at Agrigento 's breathtaking Valley of the Temples says it all: don’t miss Sicily’s most spectacular archaeological site, strung along a rocky promontory by the Med where the ancient Greeks erected Doric temples, tombs and sanctuaries 2500 years ago. Vestiges of subsequent 12km-long city walls and gates built around Akragas – by then the fourth-largest city in the ancient world – are equally evocative.

Planning tip: In summer, visit at sunset or after dark to sip drinks and listen to live jazz in the romantic citrus grove of walled garden Giardino della Kolymbetra , at the Valley of Temples’ western end. 

10. Favignana

Best for snorkeling, cycling and scootering around

Most Sicilian explorers have heard of the Aeolians, but fewer are familiar with the five Egadi Islands – Sicily’s “other” archipelago idyll stitched from whitewashed cottages, creamy tufa-stone walkways and bright blue cala (coves). The largest island, butterfly-shaped Favignana, is a half-hour hydrofoil ride from port town Trapani in western Sicily. Dirt roads, best tackled by bicycle or scooter, duck and dive to picture-postcard cove beaches such as Cala Rossa. Favignana’s 19th-century tuna cannery is a riveting exposé on traditional tuna fishing in Sicily’s big blue. Snorkeling is predictably spectacular.

Planning tip: For scenic hiking, rare monk seal spotting and Giuseppe’s sensational zuppa di aragosta (lobster soup) at Trattoria Il Veliero , get a hydrofoil from Favignana to Marettimo.

This article was first published Nov 25, 2021 and updated Mar 11, 2024.

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Visit Monreale Norman Cathedral, Erice, Infersa Mill in Marsala, Valley of the Temples, the Syracuse Archaeological Museum, Ortygia and the Greek Theater in Taormina

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30 luxury sicily tour packages with 264 reviews.

In-depth Cultural Family Food & Culinary Hiking & Trekking +2

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

"The booking process was seamless and painless. The included lunches and other meals were top notch." Maria, traveled in April 2024

• 10% deposit on some dates

Food & Culinary Explorer

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

"Well organized tour, very good accommodation, excelent quality of tasted food including the one on markets." Petra, traveled in October 2023

Explorer Family Historical

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour)

"The organized meals were some of the finest I've ever enjoyed. The accommodations were all great, some spectacular." David, traveled in April 2023

In-depth Cultural Coach / Bus

Sicilian Secrets

"The trip was well organized. The accomodation was all very good as were the breakfasts." Joan, traveled in May 2023

Food & Culinary Explorer Wine tasting +1

Charming Sicily Food & Wine Small Group Tour - 8 days

"I really enjoyed the tour!" Genevieve, traveled in October 2022

Explorer Historical

Premium Sicily

Bike trip Nebrodi

A taste of Sicily

Food & Culinary Family Christmas & New Year +1

Grand Tour of Sicily, from Palermo to Taormina

Deluxe Tour of Sicily

Explorer Food & Culinary Historical +1

Splendours of Sicily

• €150 deposit on some dates

Gravel E-bike Tour in the Heart of Sicily

Hiking & Trekking Coastal Walks Explorer +2

Sicily Grand Tour Walking & Hiking

"Wonderful route put together by Carolina and Pino. They unearthed gems we would not have discovered on our own." Claire, traveled in May 2016

Bicycle Family

Bicycle the Baroque Towns of Southeastern Sicily

In-depth Cultural

Private Sicily Countryside: Luxury Escape

Luxury sicily tours & trips reviews.

Very well organised tour. Communications were timely and clear. Hotels were in very well chosen locations with comfortable rooms and excellent breakfasts. Local guides were informative.Transport in mini-vans was efficient and comfortable.

The food and guides were great! Hotels were very comfortable. Drivers were excellent!

Lovely tour. Great guides, nice hotels, perfect itunerary.

Sicily Tours starting in:

• Catania (9)
• Palermo (7)
• Luxury Fully Guided tours (26)
• Luxury Group tours (25)
• Luxury Family tours (15)
• Luxury In-depth Cultural tours (13)
• Luxury Explorer tours (12)
• Luxury Personalized tours (12)
• Luxury Historical tours (11)
• Luxury Bicycle tours (6)
• Luxury Food & Culinary tours (5)
• What is the best time to visit Sicily (Italy) in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Sicily in 2024/2025

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (143)
• For Couples (52)
• Seniors (66)

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Bespoke Luxury Experience

TOUR OF SICILY is an Italian-Sicilian  Destination Management Company  ( DMC) and tour operator specialized in Luxury Travels options. With more than 35 years of experience , an  inimitable network of partners  and strong knowledge of the industry enables us to offer you a complete and  tailor made experience in Sicily.

As the starting point, we identify your needs and wishes , then swiftly propose the best solutions to meet those requirements.

We do not just create luxury vacations in Sicily, but rather  extraordinary and unique life experiences.  Each of our luxury tours is different simply because our travelers arranged it with us. For this reason, our objective is to provide  you with a friendly, unique and warm personal approach  to discussing, creating, and planning every detail of your travel.

During your entire tour, you will travel with Sicilian local experts, who have a deep love for their country and are proud  to share the hidden luxury gems of Sicily with you.

Are you ready to experience the most beautiful and captivating trip of your life?

Valeria Gulotta and Vincenzo Ciceraro – CEO, Owners and Your Personal Luxury Travel Designers

HELP US CREATE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SCRIPT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY

What kind of luxury traveler are you?

Help us create the most beautiful script for your holiday. Answer some questions and  we will propose different luxury itineraries  in Sicily based on your needs, expectations and idea of a luxury vacation.

Then, if you want, we can discuss  designing a custom journey for you  to experience every facet of Sicily, through cultural activities, luxury food and wine tours, relaxation or adventure.

Way more than a cookie-cutter tour

Make this itinerary yours.

Like what you see? Book a call with us today to find out more about this exclusive itinerary and get a quote. Remember: we can tailor to your needs each and every Tour of Sicily trip. So, if you are looking for a tailor-made experience, we highly suggest you to book a call for our premium service!

Transfer-Tour in Sicily: 1 day private transfer-tours of Sicily. Best way to move from one town to another visiting villages and sites instead of having just a straight transfer. We move you from the west to the south or to the east in one day transfer and tour private service!

The Peoples of Sicily: 11 days private tour of Sicily exploring the Island and the Peoples of Sicily home to Normans, Greeks, Arabs, Germans and Jews. The island was for centuries a crossroads of cultures and faiths.

Food and Wine Grand Tour of Sicily: 12 days private tour of Sicily. Over 2000 years of history, best cousine ever, delicious wine and iconic cities are just a few things you can expect from a Food and Wine Tour of Sicily.

Details Make the Difference

Unique experiences, deluxe properties, travel designers, tours and holidays.

Best experience out of the path, authentic itinerary and special access to unique activities and events.

Tour of Sicily aims to introduce travelers to a hidden and authentic point of view of Sicily through small group and bespoke experiences!

Check-out our exclusive  experiences  to feel the unique and authentic flavor of  Sicily,  above all. Our vision is to bring the best of our country to our guests, in the most  personal  and enjoyable way possible.

Furthermore, the main objective is to provide the best  cooking classes ,  food   and wine tastings  and  cultural tours . Cultural or walking tours might be small group experiences of  no more  than 12 people, as well as private and tailor-made activities.

Therefore, thanks to these unforgettable activities, our guests can live the best Sicilian experience ever.

Experience only the best hotels, villas and apartments that match your requirement, taste and needs.

The Sicily’s best places to stay.

With hundreds of hotels in Sicily – from intimate island retreats and urban hideaways to sprawling oceanfront properties, private villas, and more – there’s an escape for every type of travel style.

What makes a property so great? Each one is individually vetted for quality, location, service, and exclusivity before it receives our approval.

Be guided by our expert and professional private travel designers who will help you to create the best travel experience.

Personalized planning – the trips and experiences you want (and those unforgettable moments you didn’t even know were possible), tailored to your interests.

When you plan a trip with Tour of Sicily, you’re unlocking a world of in-the-know expertise, unbelievable travel perks, and access to a well-edited portfolio of the best brands in the business. We bring together the best travel providerds, from five-star hotel to boutique properties and high-end adventure travel outfitters in the island of Sicily. When it comes to experiencing the best of the best in travel, it’s about who you know – and we will connect you to the amazing island of Sicily.

With us you can create your  tailored vacation  with your very own professional driver-escort. Special attention is taken to give adequate time to all stops and to meet your special requests when possible. We want to assure that your experience in Sicily is both memorable and enjoyable. So, come and indulge in your  very own Sicilian experience !

Way more than a cookie-cutter tour.

Tour of Sicily, an on-site tour operator , create amazing, customized travel experiences around the island of Sicily, from group and small size escorted tours to independent vacations.

Talk to a travel advisor about what you want to do – and he’ll help you create a one-of-a-kind itinerary.

Tour of Sicily is the Best Way to Travel

The Sicily’s top travel tour operator, the brands you know, and the perks and peace of mind you won’t find anywhere else.

For close-to-home escapes or far-flung trips of a lifetime, Tour of Sicily is your resource for the insight you need to plan a safe, successful, and unforgettable vacation.

We make travel dreams come true.

What it’s like to work with a travel designer and team:.

Travel dreams become reality

Vacation planning is a fully personalized, tailored experience. There’s nothing cookie cutter or average about it – it’s just an enjoyable collaboration process with a trusted professional.

Valeria Gulotta Tour of Sicily co-owner Luxury Travel Designer

“We monitor the trip in real time to resolve any unexpected changes. We also reach out to our personal connections to make sure there’s a friendly face to welcome travelers.”

Michela Nucera Tour of Sicily booking department

“After clients return from a trip, I always ask them, ‘If you could change or add one thing, what would it be?’ It’s important to know what we can make even better next time.”

Alessandra Ribbeni Tour of Sicily customer care

Why Choose Us?

BEST VALUE Great deals, amenities and availability within our selected partners and contracts

UNDERSTAND GUEST NEEDS Understand first your needs and requirements and then help you to prepare the bespoke travel experience

PRIVATE LUXURY TRAVEL DESIGNERS Personal luxury travel designers who will assist you in the pre booking phase and in all your journey

FLEXIBLE JOURNEY Flexibility before and, with our 24/7 concierge service, also during the journey

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE Deep knowledge of destinations with a team of locals living and working all around Italy and Sicily

24/7 CONCIERGE SERVICE On-spot local assistant, who provides a 24/7 phone assistance in any language

Top TESTIMONIALS

It's only 4 easy steps.

In order to make your search easier and less painful among our big pages of itineraries, and travel related services, we are happy to write below our simple booking guide.

Submitting a tour inquiry is not an act to reserving a tour, but rather a way of establishing a communication with our Travel Designer  who will be helping you with your tour.

Tour booking will be confirmed with payment only when you are totally delighted with your personalized tour plan. The following steps simply show you how to book a tour with us!

Our website is designed to give you an idea of the wealth of travel possibilities we offer. We have suggested some itineraries for each activities and each town and these can be used as a basis for your trip or tyou may prefer to create your own itinerary.

Browse our sample tours to select the tour that most suit you.

If none of our sample tours meet your expectations and your would like to plan your own trip. Just fill out our custom plan tour form to tell us the things you want to see and do, the places you want to stay and we will customize a tour to fit your needs. Take note that we do not require any credit card details to complete the form.

DESIGN A TOUR

Based on your inquiry and request, our Travel Designer will customize a plan for your tour including details of hotels, sightseeings, restaurants, experiences and offer you a price that is quoted based exactly on your group size, travel days and the services we include in the package.

If you find our price high or low, that is possible that the hotel category or the hotel room, the experience, the restaurants are not in the line you expect. Please let us know your budget, so that we can make another quote which come closely to your needs.

TOUR APPROVAL

Once you have read through the itinerary and our service porposal, we will answer any further questions and refine the tour or related travel service until you are totally satisfied .

Just feel free to express your wishes, and take good advantages of your personal Travel Designer’s experience and advice.

If you are totally satisfied with our tour itinerary and services proposal, please send us an e-mail telling us that you agree on our Service Proposal.

CONFIRM THE TOUR

The booking process begins as soon as the deposit is paid . At that point we can start to book the services for your trip.

It may happen that some of those proposed services are not longer available after your confirmation. In that case we will book similar services of the same category and we will inform you before we launch the booking reservation.

Our Travel Designer will send you the final version of your itinerary after all the tour services are confirmed by our local suppliers.

The balance is required in total before the tour starts.

Guide to the Best Things to Do In Palermo Italy

W ith so much to do in the regional capital of Sicily, this guide to the best things to do in Palermo Italy will help you see the most important spots.

A busy port city on the northwest coast of Sicily, you'll need a few days to explore the beautiful architecture, museums, and churches.

The city was bombed very heavily during WWII. Some of the raids caused a lot of damage to the city. Many historic palaces and churches were destroyed, but thankfully, many of the historic structures were rehabilitated.

Palermo offers a blend of old and new, with plenty to experience in a beautiful Mediterranean setting. I explored Palermo for a week with a local guide from Exodus Travels and it was one of my favorite trips of all time.

I've been to Italy quite a bit spending 3 days in Rome following a cruise a couple of years ago when I first visited Taormina and Messina.

So though this wasn't my first time in Sicily, I had not been to Palermo. Visiting the capital of Sicily is a must!

Where Is Palermo?

Palermo is located on the northwest coast of Sicily. If you look at Italy as a boot, Sicily would be the large island at the tip of the boot.

It is approximately a 10-hour drive from Rome, part of which includes the Messina Ferry from mainland Italy to Sicily. The route from the ferry terminal to Palermo hugs the northern coast of Sicily and offers some amazing views.

Palermo also offers an expansive airport to fly directly to Sicily and then drive about 20 miles into the city.

As the largest city in Sicily, Palermo is an incredible blend of modern city life and historic sites dating back to 1072. 

Why We Love This City

The Sicilian capital city of Palermo is a feast for all the senses. The stunning architectural style is a unique Arab-Norman blend, with a bit of baroque and Art Nouveau influences mixed in.

Because of Sicily’s strategic location, it has frequently changed hands over the years, being under the control of Greek, Arab, Norman, Roman, Phoenician, Ostrogoth, British, and more over the years. 

As each group took hold on the island, they left their mark on architecture and culture, as well as providing a unique and rich history.

A great way to learn about the history and culture of Palermo is to take the Hop On Hop Off bus tour . This is the best way to see a lot in a short time.

And, of course, you can’t talk about areas around the Mediterranean without mentioning the incredible food. In fact, my tour with Exodus Adventure Travels was culinary-focused , making it easy to learn about the best local spots without having to do the research.

Like everything else in Sicily, the local food in Palermo is a blend of flavors. The food was definitely a big draw for me!

Top Things to Do in Palermo

Explore quattro canti square.

Also known as Four Corners Square, this is one of the most iconic locations in Palermo. Located at the intersection of the Via Maqueda and Via Vittorio Emanuele at the city center, this main intersection is filled with façades with a variety of statues.

There are statues for the four seasons on one level, four Spanish kings on the next, and then four patron saints above that.

This area was always bustling with people and was fun to just explore the nearby shops and restaurants.

Just down the street from Quattro Canti Square, you find Biga , the perfect place for a slice of pizza.

Visit Piazza Bellini

At the Piazza Bellini, you can find a couple of buildings on the UNESCO World Heritage list: the church of San Cataldo and the church of La Martorana. These historic buildings were built during the Norman era of Sicily. 

See Santa Caterina Church

This Roman Catholic church is also in Piazza Bellini. Dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, it was first constructed in 1310 as a convent for Dominican nuns.

The church has had a long history of expansion and damage due to political instability. It features several stunning chapels and sculptures of many venerated Dominican nuns. 

This was one of the most beautiful churches I've ever seen.

Take the steps to the rooftop. The way up is uneven, and there’s scaffolding that you have to walk across from one side to the other if you want to see both views. However, the view is gorgeous and worth the climb.

When I was there, the roof terrace closed at 5 p.m., so keep that in mind when planning your day. 

Walk around Piazza Pretoria

This location is a short walk from Quattro Canti and has a gorgeous fountain, Fontana Pretoria, that is great for photos with marble statues of mermaids, nymphs, satyrs, and more.

As this was right across the street from my hotel, I visited a few times, and there were always people taking selfies with the fountain and statues.

This location is also known as Piazza della Vergogna (the Square of Shame), but is it because of the nude statues that offended the sensibilities of centuries gone by or because of the corrupt government of the time that was nearby? You’ll have to decide! 

Explore Palermo Cathedral

The Palermo Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains several locations worth exploring including Chapel of the Relics, Royal Tombs, the Crypts, and the Treasury.

One of the most special relics here to the people of Palermo is a silver urn with the ashes of Saint Rosalie. It is said that she saved Sicily from the Black Plague in 1624.

A huge celebration takes place in July every year in Palermo to mark the anniversary of the discovery of the relics of Saint Rosalie.

2024 will mark the 400th anniversary of this event, and a celebration of celebrations is being planned.

Not only will there be a feast ending with a procession of Santa Rosalia's remains being brought through the streets as they do in Palermo every year, but the entire year leading up to this anniversary has been proclaimed the Rosalian Jubilee Year, from July 10, 2023, through September 4, 2024.

We saw a festival honoring Saint Rosalie taking place when we were there in September, and if it is any indication of what the 2024 festival will be like, it will be one to remember!

The Palermo Cathedral is also the final resting place for many other notable figures in the history of Sicily, but it's clear that Santa Rosalia is very special to the people who live here.

Visit the Puppet Shop and Take in a Show

For something more lighthearted, you’ll love seeing one of the puppet shows and exploring the puppets for sale from puppet master Vincenzo Argento.

He’s one of only two puppet masters left in all of Sicily and from a family line in puppetry dating back to the late 1890s! This is one of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage traditions. 

Taste Authentic Gelato

One of the best things to try, especially on a hot day, is authentic gelato.  A great place to sample this delicious dessert is the Gelateria La Kala.

Made with high-quality materials and fresh fruit, a dish of gelato is a great treat to savor. 

Visit Open Air Capo Mercado

The Capo Mercado is such a fabulous al fresco market full of stalls with fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and Sicilian street cuisine.

We wandered through the carts and kiosks of street vendors with our guide filling us in on what we should try and why.

The colorful street markets and local bakeries were my favorite stops to try some of the best local specialties.

This is one of the best places to get a literal taste of local flavor. 

Note: This type of spice and beans would not have made it through customs. Remember to only buy items that are properly sealed for traveling to another country.

Eat Traditional Sicilian foods, Palermo-style!

We tried arancini (fried rice balls stuffed with meat sauce and cheese), panelle (fried chickpea pancake), and sfincione (the traditional pizza of Palermo). They all were absolutely delicious.

You can make your own amazing food tour by walking around and seeing what strikes your fancy or take a local tour.

Eat a Spleen Sandwich

Speaking of food, you can’t talk about food in Palermo without mentioning this one.

The “Pani ca Meusa” (or Sicilian Spleen Sandwich) is a Palermo street food delicacy made with fried cow organs (like the heart, lung, and of course spleen) on a soft bun with cheese and sometimes a squeeze of lemon.

I didn’t love it, though a couple of people in our group ate the whole sandwich! I did try it, and you must, too!

Another great foodie city is Venice! If you're planning to go, save this list of things to do in Venice Italy in one day !

Take a tour of The Steri of Palermo

The Inquisition was a troubling time in the history of Palermo, where no one was safe from being labeled a heretic or accused of committing some sort of crime against the church.

The 14th century wood ceiling has been in the restoration process since 2017. It's pretty spectacular.

The Palazzo Steri was used as a prison during the Spanish Inquisition and was a place of imprisonment and atrocious torture.

Many of the Jewish population of Palermo were arrested, tortured, and burned at the stake.

While held in confined cramped cells, inmates from all walks of life used whatever they could find – coal, terracotta, even urine and spit – to create drawings on the walls of the prison cells, and the artwork is surprisingly well preserved even today. 

The artwork is a beautiful, yet haunting, reminder of a dark time in the history of Europe. Guided tours are available.

Go Shopping

There are many little shops with housewares, stationery, foods, beautiful clothing, and more! There’s something for everyone in the little boutiques throughout the city. 

Wine prices are very affordable, so bring a large tote bag to carry on with your worn clothes and pack your suitcase with local wines and foods.

Make sure whatever you buy is sealed airtight. Some local foods, such as herbs in a bag just stapled shut, won't make it through customs.

See a show at Teatro Massimo

The Teatro Massimo is the third largest opera house in Europe and offers perfect acoustics for listening to a performance.

The interior has 1381 seats in a horseshoe layout around an inclined stage, so you can always find a good seat in the house!

Taste Sangue Sicilian Vino Liquoroso

This local drink is delicious but potent! 

It is a fruity wine, similar to port wine, with flavors of cherries, blood orange, and cranberries, giving it a rich “blood wine” color.

We had such a good time at Taverna Azzurra . Can you tell?

Spend Some Time at the No Mafia Memorial

For most people, thoughts of the Mafia bring up images of The Godfather movies. (Fun fact, parts of The Godfather III were filmed in the Massimo Theatre!)

While the movie version of the Mafia is Hollywood’s take on this, the No Mafia Memorial tells the real story of the Mafia and the many deaths that it has caused over the years through a series of educational exhibits.

Take a Horse and Carriage Ride

You’ll usually see them in the Quattro Canti area. This is a great way to get a unique view of the area at a relaxed pace.

Drink Local Wine and Beer

From someone who pores over wine lists before ordering, this was such a nice break. I tend to get headaches from some red wines, so I usually stick to Pinot Noir or a Red Blend.

I don't think I ordered a specific brand of wine the entire time I was in Sicily. Simply ordering a glass of red wine was all I needed to do, and each glass was excellent.

I also enjoyed a local beer now and then, perfect on a warm day.

Explore Palazzo Normanni

Palazzo Normanni is also known as Norman Palace or The Royal Palace. This is where the seat of the Kings of Sicily was located during the House of Hauteville, Norman Dynasty, in the 11th and 12th centuries. The history is fascinating.

The building is now the seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly. The first-floor Palatine Chapel is worth the visit in itself.

Where to Stay in Palermo

I stayed at B & B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti , right in the heart of Palermo. It was so convenient to everything and they had an amazing breakfast on the rooftop.

Frequently Asked Questions

The rainiest months are January through April and November through December. Temperatures are fairly mild during the winter, but in higher altitudes on the island, there is often some snowfall in the winter. July and August are the warmest, with temperatures up near the 90s. If you want the most comfortable weather with dry conditions, June, September, or October is the best time to visit.

Yes. The hop on hop off bus gives you a nice tour. Our guide with Exodus Adventure Travels was local and gave us included tours throughout our trip. Tourism is a major draw for Palermo, with around 750,000 visitors each year. That means there are a lot of resources available to help you get around.

As a large city and tourist hub, you will readily find English spoken within the hospitality industry, as well as by many of the younger residents. (English is taught in schools.) Still, it is always helpful to brush up on a few polite phrases before you go. 

Top Tips for Visiting

Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking along cobbled streets, so this is not the place for fashionable high heels!

Leather sneakers were all I wore the whole time I was in Sicily. They’re comfortable and they go with just about anything. I have a pair of white and a pair of black. 

Bring a power converter. Palermo, like most of Europe, has 220-volt electrical outlets instead of the standard 110 in the U.S. Having a power converter is a must! 

This converter is the one I use everywhere. A nice feature is that it also has two USB ports, which is very convenient for charging multiple electronics at the same time.

Expect to eat on Palermo time. Lunch times at restaurants usually run from around noon to 3:30.

After that, restaurants are closed for most of the afternoon and early evening, reopening for dinner from around 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM.

You will still be able to find some places to eat, but if you’re looking for an early dinner, you likely will be out of luck. Go with the flow and enjoy Sicily time like a local when it comes to meals!

Your phone can be a great resource at historic sites. At many churches and monuments, there will be QR codes. Use your phone camera to access the QR code, click the link, and get more information about the location.

Make sure to respect local customs when visiting churches. Bring a scarf or sarong to cover bare shoulders and thighs when you visit churches.

If a church service is already in progress, enter quietly or avoid intruding altogether. 

Pack wisely! Grab a free printable packing list to help you plan your wardrobe and make sure you don’t forget essentials.

My trip to Sicily was with Exodus Adventure Travels and I loved leaving all the planning to them. Palermo was our first stop.

Next was Erice for a day trip before heading to Marsala. Interested in seeing the whole trip? That's coming soon!

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