Sicily Explorer & Aeolian Islands

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before check out. We wish you a safe onwards journey!