Sicily Explorer & Aeolian Islands
Spend seven nights in the gorgeous Sicilian town of Gardini Naxos on this 8-day Sicily tour, with plenty of free time for relaxing at the beach. Plus enjoy guided sightseeing at all of the island's top spots. See the iconic Greek Theatre at Taormina, bask in the shadow of Mount Etna and opt to climb its famous slopes. Explore the historic city of Syracuse, with its UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park and the picturesque island of Ortigia. Sail to the Aeolian Islands, visiting the old town of Lipari and the volcanic landscapes of Vulcano, with their unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Giardini Naxos!
Day 1 Welcome to Giardini Naxos!
Welcome to Sicily! You will most likely arrive at Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport - from here, make your own way to our hotel in the pretty coastal commune of Giardini Naxos. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and head out to explore. You can stroll along the beautiful beach, relax by the Mediterranean, or explore the charming town centre. In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers for dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 Mount Etna & Taormina
Day 2 Mount Etna & Taormina
Giardini Naxos - Catania (Mount Etna) - Taormina - Giardini Naxos. This morning, we set off on a full-day excursion to explore this fascinating Mediterranean island. After breakfast, we will travel to the slopes of stunning Mount Etna, where we can take in panoramic views of the coast and countryside. Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, and is one of Italy's most visited natural wonders.
If you would like, you can opt to ascend to the summit of Mount Etna for a fee of approximately €78, payable locally. We recommend wearing closed-toe shoes, a windbreaker jacket, and layered clothing.
In the afternoon, we visit the picturesque hilltop town of Taormina, just 6km from Giardini Naxos. With our guide, we will explore its colourful maze of narrow streets and terraces, including a guided tour of the renowned Greek Theatre. We then head back to our hotel after a memorable day of exploring.
Day 3 Giardini Naxos at Leisure
Day 3 Giardini Naxos at Leisure
Today is a free day for you to relax and explore the charms of Giardini Naxos. You can take a peaceful walk along the beach and dip your toes in the Mediterranean Sea, visit the ancient Greek ruins of Naxos, enjoy local seafood at seaside restaurants, or take a walk along the promenade with stunning views of Mount Etna. For a more cultural experience, explore nearby archaeological sites or enjoy a gelato at a local café. Your knowledgeable tour leader will be on hand to suggest activities and highlight the best places to visit in the area.
Day 4 Syracuse & Neapolis Archaeological Tour
Day 4 Syracuse & Neapolis Archaeological Tour
Giardini Naxos - Syracuse - Giardini Naxos. Today, we embark on a full-day guided excursion to explore the captivating city of Syracuse, with its historic heart located on the island of Ortigia. We will discover many of its highlights, including the Arethusa Fountain, the impressive Cathedral, and the city's UNESCO-protected archaeological area on our guided tour.
The Archaeological Park of Neapolis is home to the Greek Theatre, the intriguing Latomie caves, and the Ear of Dionysius, a 23-metre-high grotto renowned for its exceptional acoustic properties.
After our day of exploring Syracuse, we return to our hotel for the night.
Day 5 Giardini Naxos at Leisure
Day 5 Giardini Naxos at Leisure
Today is a free day for you to relax, shop, and explore at your leisure. Your tour leader will be available to recommend places of interest and provide information on how to get around the local area.
Day 6 Aeolian Islands Day Tour
Day 6 Aeolian Islands Day Tour
Giardini Naxos - Lipari - Vulcano - Giardini Naxos. This morning, we begin a full-day tour of the Aeolian Islands! We’ll travel by coach to Milazzo in the northeast of Sicily, then continue our journey by boat. Our first stop is Lipari, where we’ll have time to explore the charming old town before sailing to Vulcano. Here, we’ll explore the stunning rock formations, caves, and crystal-clear waters, all part of the Aeolian legend. On our return to Milazzo, we’ll pass the picturesque village of Gelso and its lighthouse.
Day 7 Giardini Naxos at Leisure
Day 7 Giardini Naxos at Leisure
Today is your final free day to relax at the hotel or explore the surrounding area. You might like to take a trip to Taormina for some last-minute souvenirs, enjoy a delicious gelato, or savour a leisurely lunch of local delicacies.
Day 8 Arrivederci Giardini Naxos
Day 8 Arrivederci Giardini Naxos
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before check out. We wish you a safe onwards journey!
Tour Highlights
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Prices & Dates
Hotels
Overlooking Mount Etna, this laid-back beach resort by the Mediterranean Sea is 9 km from Taormina and 2 km from Alcantara train station. The accommodation is spread across a main building and several detached villas, with bright rooms featuring patios or balconies offering garden views, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini fridges. The resort boasts five buffet restaurants, four bars (including a piano lounge with live music), a private beach, indoor and outdoor pools, and a fitness centre.
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