Susanna Schoer
Timeless Southern Italy
Luxury - Zicasso
10 nights / 11 days
Syracuse – Etna – Taormina – Riviera dei Ciclopi – Cefalù – Palermo
COASTLINES, VOLCANOES & BAROQUE TREASURES
Ideal for: Culture Lovers | Sea & Sun Seekers | Food & Wine Enthusiasts | Slow Travelers | Couples in Search of Authentic Italy | Mediterranean Dreamers
Overview
From the golden stone of Syracuse to the theatrical beauty of Taormina, from Mount Etna’s lunar landscapes to Cefalù’s seaside charm, this curated Sicilian journey blends culture, nature, and relaxation.
Private transfers ensure seamless travel between destinations, while hand-selected boutique hotels place you in the heart of each location. You will explore ancient theaters, sail along crystalline waters, sip local wines on volcanic soil, and stroll through vibrant Palermo — experiencing Sicily with comfort and authenticity.
Why travellers love this trip?
• Seamless private transfers throughout Sicily
• Boutique 4★ hotels in prime central locations
• Boat tour along the Syracuse coastline
• Private Etna excursion with round-trip transfer
• Riviera dei Ciclopi scenic exploration
• Authentic Sicilian aperitivo experience in Cefalù
• Private guided visit in Palermo
• Balanced pace between exploration and seaside relaxation
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Catania & Transfer to Syracuse
Arrival at Catania Airport, where your private driver will welcome you for a seamless transfer to Syracuse. As you leave the volcanic slopes of Etna behind and approach the coast, Sicily begins to reveal its layered beauty.
Check-in at Grande Albergo Alfeo, an elegant 4★ hotel ideally located near Ortigia Island. Its refined interiors and central position allow you to immediately immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere.
The remainder of the day is at leisure — a gentle introduction to Sicily’s warm light and seaside elegance.
Day 2 – Syracuse & Ortigia: History Embraced by the Sea
Spend the morning exploring Ortigia, Syracuse’s historic heart, independently. Wander through narrow limestone streets, discover Baroque piazzas, and admire the majestic Cathedral built upon ancient Greek foundations.
In the afternoon, enjoy a 1-hour boat tour along the coastline. From the water, Syracuse’s skyline feels even more magical — sea caves, rocky inlets, and golden facades glowing in the Mediterranean sun.
A perfect balance of culture and coastal beauty.
Day 3 – Mount Etna: Europe’s Living Volcano
This afternoon, depart for a private excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Travel comfortably with private round-trip transfer from Syracuse.
Walk across ancient lava flows and admire breathtaking panoramic views stretching toward the Ionian Sea. The landscape is raw, powerful, and unforgettable — a striking contrast to Sicily’s baroque elegance.
Return to Syracuse in the evening.
Day 4 – Taormina & The Ancient Theatre
Private transfer from Syracuse to Taormina, one of Sicily’s most iconic destinations.
In the afternoon, visit independently the spectacular Teatro Antico di Taormina with pre-reserved tickets. Set dramatically above the sea with Mount Etna in the distance, this ancient amphitheater offers one of the most breathtaking views in Italy.
Overnight at Hotel Ariston & Palazzo Santa Caterina, a refined 4★ property featuring panoramic terraces, Mediterranean gardens, and sea-view rooms.
Day 5 – Riviera dei Ciclopi: Myth & Coastline
Full-day private excursion (8 hours) along the legendary Riviera dei Ciclopi. Discover picturesque fishing villages and dramatic lava rock formations rising from crystalline waters.
This coastline, steeped in Homeric legend, offers spectacular views and authentic Sicilian seaside life. Your private driver ensures flexibility and comfort throughout the day.
Return to Taormina in the evening.
Day 6 – From Taormina to Cefalù
Private transfer to Cefalù, a charming seaside town framed by golden beaches and a towering Norman cathedral.
Check in at Hotel Riva del Sole, ideally positioned facing the sea, offering a relaxed Mediterranean ambiance and direct beach access.
Afternoon at leisure to stroll along the waterfront or unwind by the sea.
Day 7 – Cefalù: Authentic Flavors & Local Atmosphere
Morning free to enjoy the beach or explore independently.
In the afternoon, join a guided walking tour through Cefalù’s medieval streets, followed by an authentic Sicilian aperitivo experience. Taste regional specialties while enjoying views over the coastline — a convivial moment that captures Sicily’s generous spirit.
Day 8 – A Day of Pure Relaxation
A full day dedicated to seaside relaxation. Swim in clear waters, lounge under the Sicilian sun, or simply embrace the slow rhythm of coastal life.
This pause in the journey allows you to fully savor Cefalù’s tranquil charm.
Day 9 – Palermo: Private Discovery
Private transfer from Cefalù to Palermo.
In the afternoon, enjoy a 2-hour private guided tour of the city’s historic center. Discover its Arab-Norman heritage, lively markets, and layered architecture shaped by centuries of civilizations.
Overnight at Artemisia Palace Hotel, a boutique 4★ hotel combining historic character with modern comfort in a central location.
Day 10 – The Royal Palace & Free Time
Morning visit to the magnificent Palazzo dei Normanni with pre-reserved tickets (self-guided). Marvel at the opulent halls and intricate mosaics of the Palatine Chapel.
The afternoon is yours to explore Palermo at your own pace — perhaps sampling street food, visiting artisan shops, or enjoying a final Sicilian espresso in a sunlit piazza.
Day 11 – Departure
Private transfer to Palermo Airport for your return flight to the USA.
You leave Sicily with vivid memories of volcanic landscapes, baroque elegance, crystalline waters, and authentic Mediterranean flavors — a journey rich in contrast and emotion.
What is included
Accommodation
• 3 nights at Grande Albergo Alfeo – Classic room with daily breakfast
• 2 nights at Hotel Ariston & Palazzo Santa Caterina – Superior double room with daily breakfast
• 3 nights at Hotel Riva del Sole – Triple sea view room with daily breakfast
• 2 nights at Artemisia Palace Hotel – Superior double room with daily breakfast
All hotels are centrally located 4★ properties, carefully selected for comfort, atmosphere, and strategic position.
Private Transfers & Transportation
• Private arrival transfer Catania Airport – Syracuse hotel
• Private transfer Syracuse – Taormina
• Private transfer Taormina – Cefalù
• Private transfer Cefalù – Palermo
• Private departure transfer Palermo hotel – Palermo Airport
• Private round-trip transfer for Mount Etna excursion
• Full-day (8h) private driver service along the Riviera dei Ciclopi
Tours & Experiences
• 1-hour boat tour in Syracuse
• Afternoon excursion to Mount Etna
• Entrance ticket to Teatro Antico di Taormina (self-guided visit)
• 2-hour private guided tour of Palermo
• Entrance ticket to Palazzo dei Normanni (self-guided visit)
• Guided walking tour in Cefalù with authentic Sicilian aperitivo experience
Agency Services & Travel Support
• Dedicated travel design and itinerary customization
• Personalized pre-departure consultation and assistance
• Complete and detailed digital travel roadbook (day-by-day schedule, logistics, emergency contacts, curated restaurant and activity suggestions)
• Local assistance and on-trip support
• All VAT and service taxes
What is not included
• International flights
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Meals not specifically mentioned in the inclusions
• Optional excursions not listed in the program
• Personal expenses and gratuities for drivers and guides
• City taxes (to be paid locally at each hotel, if applicable)
DEPOSIT
must be paid by
3.900
BALANCE
must be paid by
9.100
TOTAL PRICE
Policies & Terms
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations are subject to the following penalties calculated on the total trip price:
- Deposit (30%) is non-refundable under any circumstances.
If the trip has been fully paid, the following penalties apply:
- Up to 60 days before departure: 50% penalty
- From 59 to 45 days before departure: 75% penalty
- From 44 days prior to departure to the departure date: 100% penalty
Package Modifications
Once the package has been confirmed, modifications can be made up to 45 days before departure.
- Upgrades: free of charge, except for the cost of the new services
- Downgrades: subject to an agency fee of $200 per modified service
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip in case of unexpected cancellations, changes, or emergencies.
Payment Options & TERMS
Payment currency: US Dollar
Accepted Payment Methods:
– Credit card
– Debit card
– Revolut Direct
Payment Terms
Deposit: 30% non-refundable, due at the time of booking confirmation.
Balance Payment: due between 60 and 80 days prior to the departure date.
All payments are to be made in US dollars.