As soon as we arrived, Guisi started making phone calls and asking people if they knew our family name. By the end of the tour, we felt we were parting from a dear friend. The largest beasts on the planet still roam Africa, tribes still follow ancient ways and traditions, and you can't help but feel the pulse of a primal connection, and hear echoes of a distant past in the strange, magnificent, breathtaking landscapes. Guided tour of SPICY PALERMO and MONUMENTAL MONREALE, TAORMINA: Mediterranean garden in the foothills of Mount Etna, Tour of CATANIA with its FISH MARKET & the CYCLOPS COASTLINE, SIRACUSA and BAROQUE TREASURES of the South East, Guided tour of ORTIGIA ISLAND & NEAPOLIS archaeological area, CRUISING ISOLA BELLA in TAORMINA (weather permitting), Included discovery of SEGESTA TEMPLE and stunning hill town of ERICE, Visit the treasures of Sicilian Baroque: NOTO & RAGUSA, Cherish an included visit to majestic GREEK THEATRE in TAORMINA, Majestic MOUNT ETNA and WINE TASTING in local wine estate, Lunch on the golden sandy beach of GIARDINI NAXOS, HOME-HOSTED MEAL in a quaint Sicilian village, Discover unknown Sicily -the hill town of SAVOCA, Experience the SALT PANS & MUSEUM OF THE SALT, Authentic and personalized PIZZA MAKING EXPERIENCE, Included CABLE-WAY from ERICE to TRAPANI (weather permitting) and much more, Visit popular UNESCO World heritage sites, Exceptional native tour director to accompany you throughout your journey, Main Sicilian archaeological sites entrances are included, Transportation on tour, via private air-conditioned 21 seats motorcoach, Local guides included in Palermo, Monreale, Corleone,Agrigento, Roman Villa, Siracusa, Hotel city tax and service charges at all properties and restaurants are included. They were real veterans of your other tours which is a testament to your company.We look forward to planning a trip in the future. After an included lunch in the best local tavern, well descend to Trapani by a 10 mins cable-way ride (weather permitting), passing Salt Pansand windmills,learning about the history and process of salt harvesting at theMuseum of the Saltin TRAPANI.Rest of the evening is on your own.Overnight stay in PALERMO, DAY 4 : INTRIGUING CORLEONE & VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES IN AGRIGENTO, This mornings visit takes you south-west from Palermo to the town of CORLEONE,well-known as the birthplace of several Mafia bosses. She consistently went above and beyond expectations, even helping my Grandmother meet and speak to some far-removed family. Our expert mini-bus driver, Andrea, was skilled at navigating busy streets, steep hills, and winding roads. He was a consummate professional, and was always waiting for us with a warm greeting and a cool van just as we finished our activities. tour size: the tour is a go if at least 6 persons sign up and tops off at 16~18, keeping our groups light on our feet and personable. That is, optional excursions to Crete, Rhodes, & elsewhere can be arranged. Vestiges of the ancient Greeks and Romans entice in Agrigento and Taormina the presence of the Normans lingers in Palermo a distinctive style of Sicilian architecture began in the Baroque Valley centuries ago and flourishes today Byzantine and Arab art mingle with Italian influences taste impressive wines from grapes grown in volcanic soil all for a taste of the authentic Sicily. July Tour: 08-18 Jul. Visit the stunning UNESCO town of NOTO, with its remarkable architectural integrity, honey-color buildings and famous domed Cathedral. It knew the glories of the Arab-Islamic Golden Age in great centers of learning like Kairouan andTunis. Often robust may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times. We were able to meet several family members through her efforts, and to see our family home and visit the locked churches. Meanwhile these trips are going ahead for 2022. itinerary: click here for the itinerary. The remainder of the day is at leisure. 800-788-7885. Forgot your password? Israel may be small geographically but it is a country of epic proportions, rich with ancient sites and stories that stir the imagination within a modern, kaleidoscopic mix of immigrants, ethnicities, cultures, and religions. Built in the 18th century for the King of Naples, Ferdinand I and Queen Maria Carolina of Borbone (an older sister of Queen Marie Antoinette of France) during their exile in Sicily, Villa Chiaramonte Bordonaro is still home to the Barons Chiaramonte Bordonaro today, and its gardens rank among the most beautiful parks in Palermo. The wild beauties of the Temple of Apollo at Bassae continue to amaze, & Olympia illustrates how sports is worship. We will envision ancient potters under the Corinthian acropolis; the Oresteia at Mycenae, Heracles at Tiryns; the military state at Sparta; the clarity of drama & healing at Epidaurus. Try using less filters or select a different year. Costa Rica is tropical rainforests and exotic wildlife. HISTORY: We begin our visit in Tunis, the site of ancient Carthage and one of the Mediterraneans most vibrant Arab souks. They were real veterans of your other tours which is a testament to your company.We look forward to planning a trip in the future. What a lovely manner she has to go along with her vast knowledge and good humor! By the way we will be at the New York Travel show on October 28, 29, 30 Hope to meet you there Grazie mille Aldo, My family and I had an incredible journey around Sicily with Secret Italia. Our second week will be plunged into the countryside of the rest of the Mezzorgiorno, from the depths of incredible Matera, to delightful Trulli Houses, to the Baroque glories of Lecce, to remote hill towns and coasts. Her translating skills were especially appreciated when I visited my Grandfathers home village, Polizzi Generoso. Archaic & Classical Athens: We begin climbing the Acropolis, wandering Agor, & perusing the unimaginably wonderful Archaeological Museum. In all, well visit 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, with an option on another. We will follow Easter Week festivals across Sicily, eat regional Easter delicacies, hear festive music, and visit the major tourist sites along the way. Sicily has some of Italys best beaches and on this tour we make sure that youll have time to enjoy them.The cuisine of Sicily varies from one province to the next as do the wines. After a light pizza lunch, enjoy the rest of the day in bella Taormina.Wander through its elegant gardens, posh cafes, and shops or explore the nearby mountain top village of Castelmola.In the evening celebrate your Sicilian adventure during a dinner sharing travel memories and toasting new friends.Overnight stay in TAORMINA, Morning transfers to Catania airport or train station for your journey home.You might extend your tour to PUGLIA, SARDINIA ISLAND, the region of MALTA ISLAND or our beautiful 13 Days Small Group Tour To CROATIA & SLOVENIA, 2022/23 TOUR PRICE: 3,800 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: 500 Currency Converter, Price is per person based on double room occupancy for 12 days/11 nights. We enjoyed the balance of free time to go off and explore this beautiful area. It contains the richest, largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world.Following a hearty included lunch in a family restaurant, your journey continues to the townofSIRACUSA for the next three nights at the 19th century boutiqye ALGILA HOTELor similar.The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to make your own discoveries or simply wandering its colorful winding streets and alleys.Overnight stay in SIRACUSA, DAY 6 : TAPESTRY OF CULTURES IN SIRACUSA, In the morning, youll explore this major outpost of the Greek empire with a local expert guide.The city boasts an incredible historical heritage, starting from theArchaeological Park, featuring the ancientGreek Theaternow used for classical performances, theLatomie del Paradiso, the largest quarry in the ancient urban settlement and theEar Of Dionysus, a subterranean artificial cave quarry used as a prison. Overnight in PALERMO. It currently rises at 11,000 feet above sea level and literally towers above Sicilys Ionian coast.Due to its scientific value supporting endemic flora and fauna, and its historical significance, Mount Etna was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Descend to the village of LINGUAGLOSSA to visit a family run winery for a wine tour.Enjoy La Dolce Vita in Taormina.Overnight stay in TAORMINA, DAY 11 : HANDS -ON-PIZZA MAKING EXPERIENCE & DOLCE FAR NIENTE IN TAORMINA, In the morning,visit a popular pizzeria where a professional pizza chef will give you an introduction to the history of pizza and how to make it. This is the contradiction and enigma of Sicily;Italys best-kept secret. I want to travel in a maximum group size of up to: Copyright TourRadar. Well visit a startling Roman amphitheatre marooned from traveled ways, some medieval clifftop ksour, and modern Tunisian cities. Youll see numerous elegant Baroque town houses, rebuilt after the earthquake that severely damaged the city in 1693, the elegantPiazza Duomo, dominated by the Cathedrals baroque facade and theTemple of Athena from the 5th century BC lying behind it.After a foodie experience at the lively market, youll have the rest of the day and dinner is on your own.Overnight in SIRACUSA, DAY 7 :BAROQUE TREASURES OF NOTO, RAGUSA & ANCIENT PALAZZO, A full days journey today takes you south-east to witness the splendors of the Sicilian Baroque architecture, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.In 1693 this corner of Sicily was devastated by an earthquake. I turned 80 in 2022, so thats many years. She is such an amazing person and a very good friend of us.Hope to meet you all in the future. You have to be a skillful driver to navigate Sicilys narrow streets.With appreciation for facilitating such a memorable trip, Dear Maria Thanks so ever much for your beautiful email and I am pleased to hear you all had a wonderful time in Sicily.I agree with you on Giusi. May Tour: 20-30 June, with an option to see ancient tragedy or comedy in Siracusas ancient Greek theatre. Following this,drive to theancient town ofRAGUSA IBLA, famous for its labyrinth of crooked lanes and tiny squares.Here well visit an ancient aristocratic palace inhabited by the same family for over 200 years.Time on your own for lunch.Dinner is included in a local tavern. I wouldnt have been able to communicate with the many cousins I found there. Please, if you have difficulty walking, we'll be happy to schedule a private tour, tailored to your needs and at your pace. It was the highlight of a trip that had many highlights! Join us in sharing unforgettable stories and insights we've gained in our decades of experience of showing Sicily to visitors. I saved the best for last there cannot possibly be a better guide in all of Italy than Giusi! She was highly reactive to our needs, and always made an effort to adapt plans in whatever way requested. It currently rises at 11,000 feet above sea level and literally towers above Sicilys Ionian coast.Due to its scientific value supporting endemic flora and fauna, and its historical significance, Mount Etna was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Descend to the village of, where a professional pizza chef will give you an introduction to the history of pizza and how to make it. Unfortunately, people with walking difficulties create unfair issues on group tours. All along we will enjoy full measure of the best food in Italy (or so we say in the Mezzogiorno). We found the hotels you selected clean, centrally located, and beautiful at each destination. The Yellow Roads of Europe are routes off the beaten path that bring you closer to the less-visited sights and the everyday life of the country. The Mother of All of Us: This tour will focus on the civilizations of the Aegean from the decline of the Mycenaeans through the troubled triumph of Classical Greece, with an emphasis on developments in civic life & the narratives of history & myth. Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs. We will get back you with regards your tour booking within 24 hours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Any tour would be lucky to have Giusi as their guide. Perhaps the most beautiful and ornate churches in the world, extraordinary seafood markets and incredible pistachio pastries, cassata gelati, home of the Mafia and amazing wineries alongside the best preserved Greek and Roman ruins in Europe. How many people will be travelling privately? We enjoyed the balance of free time to go off and explore this beautiful area. Argentina is arid and distinctly European. From the elegant simplicity of a Japanese tea room to the neon cityscapes of Tokyo; from the intricate art of a Cambodian temple; from elephant walks to frenetic street markets to the serene beauty of the Taj Mahal, we'll guide you through the exotic pageantry of Asia: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, China, Japan, India and Thailand, where there's never a lack of excitement for the eye, the palate, or the imagination. Averaging just 24 guests, choose from 85+ small group trips around the world (including safaris); lower guide-to-guest ratio means more personalized service enjoy authentic experiences on and off the beaten path, exclusive access, insider perspectives, premium hotel stays, and local cuisines. P. IVA # 01990190892; DDS 2737 -57 del 22/10/2019 Regione Assessorato del Turismo, Sport e Spettacolo; California Seller of Travel registration # 2120460-40, Siracusa, Sicily, Italy, 18/20 Via Cavour, Siracusa, Sicilia, Italy, In Italy 0931-60977, in USA (Dec-May only) 707-771-0745. As diverse as it gets, from the fishing villages of Maine to the cliffs of Big Sur, from southwest canyons to tropical rainforests, volcanoes, Rocky Mountains, Pacific islands, Yellowstone, Giant Sequoias, towering cityscapes, blue-tinted glaciers, luminous fall foliage, lush vineyards, living Colonial museums, Newport mansions, and New Orleans jazz halls to the marble halls of Washington, DC. The entire experience was extremely moving for my grandmother, and would not have been possible without Giusi there.Mario, our driver had the task of driving us all over the island, and we had no issues at any point while in his care. Get the best rates, the best service. Well, that is not true for the capital of the Mezzogiorno, Naples, a raucous, bustling, incredible place, embarrassingly rich in treasures. Dear Aldo, We cant thank you enough for the wonderful, memorable family trip that you organized for us in Sicily. She was highly reactive to our needs, and always made an effort to adapt plans in whatever way requested. Pricing & Dates are not available yet. Sign up for free and earn commission on every booking by registering as an accredited TourRadar Agent. O Canada! funerary fresco of an educated young Roman woman. Dome of the Rock, Temple Mount, Jerusalem. Walk among the world's best-preserved Greek ruins; hear ancient myths on the sites where they happened; marvel at Roman and Norman mosaics; explore hilltop villages; visit sites of Mafia and anti-Mafia activities; enjoy the cuisine of people who care intensely about flavor; relax for lunch at farms and wineries. The entire experience was extremely moving for my grandmother, and would not have been possible without Giusi there.Mario, our driver had the task of driving us all over the island, and we had no issues at any point while in his care. Experience the Sicilian lifestyle and tradition with a, Travel to Sicily with its idyllic climate, archaeology treasures, dramatic vistas and hearty cuisine that embodies all things Sicilian. CULTURE: Well descend into underground Berber dwellings used in Star Wars filming, cross dunes at the edge of the Sahara, and wander several sensory-satiating souks. Nike (Victory) removing her sandal before stepping barefoot onto the altar. All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more. Sicilian Secrets: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights). Every region has its own dialects, but everywhere the technicolor landscapes speak the same language of adventure. On the way youll discover the vibrant city ofCATANIA, which owes its Baroque architecture in gloomy black lava to the last quake of 1693. Experience the Sicilian lifestyle and tradition with a Sicily small group tour limited to 12/14 travelers only! Our expert mini-bus driver, Andrea, was skilled at navigating busy streets, steep hills, and winding roads. Peloponnesus & beyond: Then we're off to Eleusis to re-imagine the mysteries, kept secret for fifteen hundred years & still unknown. Overnight in PALERMO. Our visit will focus on what really is the eternal city, walking its streets, telling its stories. Ancient sites play headlining roles in Middle Eastern countries, where a cultural tapestry rich with timeless traditions and tales of life long ago coexists with present-day innovations. ADDRESSES mail: Sicily Tour S.A.S., Via Vittorio Veneto 123, Siracusa, Sicily, Italy 96100 office : via della Giudecca 35, Ortigia, Siracusa, EMAIL: sicilytour31@gmail.com or dkenning@sicily-tour.com.TEL: in Italy +39-334-882-8397; in USA (Dec-May only) +1-707-771-0745. Perhaps most importantly, Mario made us feel at ease on the narrow, mountainous roads. She made us feel that we were well taken care of every day. She skillfully handled the few glitches, no fish for Sam, and scheduling the gondola ride at Etna. Then, for our final four days, we will explore further afield, circling the Palestinian areas and Israel proper. When we visited my mothers family hometown, Giusi showed us her excellent detective skills as well. Ever present as we travel through the country that began the "Arab Spring" will be the people themselves as they struggle to hold together their still-fragile democracy. Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel. All of the meals were excellent and unique, and the hotels were beautiful and perfectly situated for the evening passeggiata. Exploring the world through natural history travels are at the heart of two of our most popular journeys an expeditionary cruise to Antarctica and our popular (and fascinating) land expedition to Churchill, Manitoba in search of the polar bears. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Sicily will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. We hope to visit Sicily again, and will be in touch! Readwhat our friends say about this fantastic sicily tour, SICILY SMALL GROUP TOUR LIMITED TO 12/14 PARTICIPANTS FROM PALERMO TO CATANIA. This historic site was the heart of one of the most important cities in the ancient world and is the prime example of the magnificence of, or similar, with an included dinner.Overnight stay in, one of the 44 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy, built in the first quarter of the 4th century. She made us feel that we were well taken care of every day. Where you stay is an important part of your journey with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. We found the local educational experts at the archeological and historical sites gave us keen insight into the rich background of Sicily. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty. Thanks to all of you for a beautiful and special trip. Marios steady hand at the wheel impressed me, too. I saved the best for last there cannot possibly be a better guide in all of Italy than Giusi! Overnight stay in TAORMINA, DAY 9 :UNKNOWN SAVOCA, HOME-HOSTED FAMILY EXPERIENCE & TAORMINA ANCIENT THEATER, The morning starts with a panoramic drive to the trapped-in-time picturesque village of SAVOCA, set on the foothills of the Peloritani Mountains to discover the real Sicily.Seems unchanged since medieval times,with its gated walls,stone cottages and haunting churches.Here youll view the 18th century bar Vitelli, one of Coppolas favorite spots and the church of St.Lucia.Afterwards,a Sicilian family welcomes you for a traditional home-hosted lunch, a delightful way to experience everyday life.Clamped to a rocky bluff planted with cypresses,pines and lush subtropical vegetation,the exquisitely maintained medieval town of TAORMINA is Sicilys glitziest and most dramatically situated resort.End the day with a visit to the crowning Greek/Roman theatre in Taormina, one of Sicilys great sights, with its dramatic views over Mount Etna.Remainder of the day is on your own for more explorations.Overnight stay in TAORMINA, DAY 10 :IN THE SHADOW OF MOUNT ETNA & WINERY, Explore majestic MOUNT ETNA,the highest and largest volcano in Europe and one of the worlds most active.The peak changes in size over the years. Call She consistently went above and beyond expectations, even helping my Grandmother meet and speak to some far-removed family. In Peru mountain cities and Incan ruins wait to be explored. An irresistible destination boasting miles of private Mediterranean coastline, Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is a place where your room will seem woven subtly into the Sicilian landscape where you'll enjoy a true sense of space and uninterrupted views of the azure waters from your private terrace. Then, beyond the Peloponnesus, we pilgrimage up to the glorious spiritual heights of Delphi & Metora & imagine the desperation of Thermopylae, before finishing again in Athens. On thissmall group tour journey, youll delve into one of the most fascinating and coveted regions in Italy. No one does Easter Week (Pasqua) with as much deep feeling and colorful spectacle as the Sicilians. Thank you. Dear Melissa Thanks so ever much for your beautiful email and I am pleased to hear you all had a wonderful time in Sicily.I agree with you on Giusi. Late June Tour: 24 Jun.- 04 July, with an option to see ancient tragedy or comedy in Siracusas ancient Greek theatre. DAY 2 : HIGHLIGHTS OF PALERMO & BIBLICAL MONREALE, Start your discovery of Sicily with a guided walking tour of PALERMO, a crossroads of history, being the worlds most conquered city and a melting pot of civilizations. Closed for 23 years starting in the 1970s, the Teatro Massimo the location where the final scenes of "The Godfather, Part III" were filmed was restored and reopened in time for its centennial in 1997. Her knowledge and expertise are exceptional, but her warmth impressed me even more. What a lovely manner she has to go along with her vast knowledge and good humor! or your travel advisor, {{durationDays}} Days|{{year}}|from {{priceFrom}}|{{category.categoryLabel}}. Marvel at the rich archaeological ruins of Siracusa dating to the 5th century BC. Within a couple of days, Guisi felt like part of our family. Due to call volume, hold times may be long; click here to make a payment or update your reservation. , an incredible concentration of Greek temples in varying states of ruin and reconstruction. Travel to Sicily with its idyllic climate, archaeology treasures, dramatic vistas and hearty cuisine that embodies all things Sicilian. Small Group Tours in Sicily, Malta, South Italy & Portugal, AMALFI, SORRENTO, CAPRI SMALL GROUP TOURS, 12 DAYS SICILY SMALL GROUP TOUR: SICILY AMORE MIO. Within a couple of days, Guisi felt like part of our family. Stare face to face with some of the worlds best Byzantine mosaics in the cathedral of Monreale. On this. Towns were rapidly rebuilt out of the glowing local limestone. That affiliation remains in anticipation of Humanities Wests resumption of full programs. As soon as we arrived, Guisi started making phone calls and asking people if they knew our family name. We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour.Well be happy to make these arrangements for you.