Day 1 - ARRIVE CATANIA - GIARDINI NAXOS

Welcome to Sicily, the largest of the Mediterranean Islands, and compendium of the greatest civilisations and cultures of all time. On arrival at Catania Airport, your airport shuttle service leaves for the tour hotel in Giardini Naxos at 10:00, 12:30 & 15:30. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Drink, before enjoying dinner 'Sicilian style' at the hotel.
Hotel: Sant Alphio Garden. (D)

Day 2 - SIGHTSEEING IN TAORMINA

After breakfast take a short drive up to the elegant cliff-top town of Taormina. Founded in 400 BC, Taormina is beautifully located overlooking the Ionian sea and facing the snowy peak of Mount Etna. Visit the Greek Theatre (3rd Century B.C.) with a local guide, then stroll along elegant Corso Umberto to Piazza 9 Aprile for splendid panoramic views across the bay to the Ionian Sea. Afterwards, return to the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters of Giardini Naxos. (BB)

Day 3 - GIARDINI NAXOS - CEFALU - PALERMO

Cross over to the northern side of the island and drive along the coast to the small fishing town of Cefalu, hemmed between the sea and a rocky promontory. Visit the impressive cathedral, which was erected to fulfil a vow made by the Norman King Roger II The mosaics in the interior are among the most famous in the land. Continue to the Sicilian capital of Palermo.
Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri. (BB,D)

Day 4 - PALERMO SIGHTSEEING

Sightseeing with a local guide includes a visit to the unusual Church of St John of the Hermits and nearby Palace of the Normans, with it's Palatine Chapel and dazzling mosaics. You also see the spectacular fountain in the Piazza Pretoria and the delightful Piazza Bellini - a square featuring both Moorish and Norman styles. Later drive to the town of Monreale, to visit the finely decorated cathedral and enjoy views over the fertile plain known as the Conca d'Oro (Golden Conch Shell). (BB)

Day 5 - PALERMO - ERICE - AGRIGENTO

Head west to the ancient walled city of Erice, with it's labyrinth of quiet alleyways. Enjoy sea views from the gardens next to the Castle of Venus - on a clear day you see the Tunisian coast! The Sicilian Mafia has played its part in the tribulations of the island; we'll explain how this came to be and some of the inner workings of the infamous 'Cosa Nostra'. Continue to Agrigento to spend the remainder of the day exploring the Valley of the Temples, considered the finest Greek sanctuary in Sicily. Especially impressive are the massive Temple of Concordia and cliff-top Temple of Juno overlooking the sea.
Hotel: Colleverde (BB,D)

Day 6 - AGRIGENTO - RAGUSA

Investigate the heart of Sicily today as you head for Piazza Armerina and the nearby Roman Villa of Casale. This immense 3rd or 4th century building is noted for its famous mosaics, which cover almost the entire floor space. Cupids playing with dolphins, wild animals and even bikini clad girls are all depicted in the picturesque scenes. Stay tonight in Ragusa, one of the most fascinating towns in Sicily, a magnificent blend of narrow streets, old churches and scenic views.
Hotel: Mediterraneo (BB,D)

Day 7 - RAGUSA - SYRACUSE - CATANIA

Drive through the southeastern corner of Sicily, past Noto, another victim of the 1693 earthquake, to Syracuse, founded by Corinthians eight centuries before Christ. Sightseeing with a guide takes you to the superb Greek theatre, carved out of solid rock and overlooking the sea. You also visit the Paradise Quarry, from which the city's building materials came, and its unusual 'Ear of Dionysius' - a grotto in the shape of an earlobe, with an unusual echo. For the energetic, there is time to explore the Old City, a maze of narrow streets lined with palaces, sprawling over the island of Ortygia. It was here that the famous geometrician Archimedes ran naked through the streets, crying 'Eureka'! Return to Catania tonight where you can celebrate the tour finale at a Highlight Dinner.
Hotel: Excelsior Grand Hotel . (BB,HD)

Day 8 - CATANIA

Take your final glimpse of Mount Etna this morning. Departure transfers arrive at Catania Airport at 06:30 & 08:30. (BB)