CIE Tours

Classic Sicily

Immerse yourself in ancient history and culinary delights as you discover Palermo’ s vibrant streets, ancient ruins in Agrigento, Taormina’ s coastal charm, and the majestic landscapes of Mount Etna.

Authentic Local Experiences:

  • Tour and taste the exceptional fortified wines at the renowned Cantine Pellegrino in Marsala.
  • Savor life on the side of Europe’s highest active volcano as you visit a honey producer and a winery on Mount Etna.
  • Trip Highlights:

    • Baglio Elena Agriturismo
    • Cantine Pellegrino Marsala winery
    • Honey producer Oro d’Etna
    • Messina Cathedral
    • Monreale Cathedral
    • Mount Etna scenic drive
    • Palermo Walking Tour
    • Taormina Walking Tour
    • The Godfather villages
    • Valley of the Temples tour
    • Winery Tour and Lunch at Tenuata San Michele

    *Visits subject to availability

    Dining Experiences:

    • 7 Breakfasts (B), 2 Lunch (L) , and 4 Dinners (D)

    Hotels:

    • NH Palermo, Palermo (2)
    • Baia di Ulisse, Agrigento (1)
    • Eurostars Monte Tauro, Taormina (3)
    • NH Palermo, Palermo (1)

    *Only single or double/twin rooms are available on this tour.

    INSIDER TIP! Extend your vacation with pre-nights or post nights. We’ve negotiated special hotel rates to make it easy and affordable.

05/16/2025 through 12/01/2025
05/16/2025 through 12/12/2025

Day 1

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements. Visitors can marvel at its intricate façade and explore the royal tombs within.

One of Palermo’s most captivating sites is the Capella Palatina, an exquisite chapel within the Norman Palace. Adorned with stunning mosaics and golden Byzantine artwork, this chapel reflects the grandeur of Sicily’s medieval period. The palace itself, once a royal residence, offers a glimpse into the opulent past of Sicilian nobility.

The city's bustling markets are a sensory overload of vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The Mercato di Ballarò and Mercato della Vucciria are among the most famous, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and taste local delicacies like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and cannoli. These markets not only offer delicious food but also an immersive look into Palermo's daily life and traditions.

Fun fact: Palermo is known for its unique street food culture, with the city's market vendors offering some of the best street food in Italy. Be sure to try "pane con la milza," a traditional Sicilian sandwich made with spleen, a local delicacy.


Day 2

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements. Visitors can marvel at its intricate façade and explore the royal tombs within.

One of Palermo’s most captivating sites is the Capella Palatina, an exquisite chapel within the Norman Palace. Adorned with stunning mosaics and golden Byzantine artwork, this chapel reflects the grandeur of Sicily’s medieval period. The palace itself, once a royal residence, offers a glimpse into the opulent past of Sicilian nobility.

The city's bustling markets are a sensory overload of vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The Mercato di Ballarò and Mercato della Vucciria are among the most famous, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and taste local delicacies like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and cannoli. These markets not only offer delicious food but also an immersive look into Palermo's daily life and traditions.

Fun fact: Palermo is known for its unique street food culture, with the city's market vendors offering some of the best street food in Italy. Be sure to try "pane con la milza," a traditional Sicilian sandwich made with spleen, a local delicacy.


Day 3
Day 4 Taormina, with its hilltop location above the Ionian Sea, is easily one of Italy's most beautiful places. As it's packed with people in the summertime, recommended months to visit include April and September.
Day 5 Taormina, with its hilltop location above the Ionian Sea, is easily one of Italy's most beautiful places. As it's packed with people in the summertime, recommended months to visit include April and September.
Day 6 The biggest volcano in Europe - and still very active. Drive up to the 6,000 foot level, travel along roads that run over layers of hardened lava, created in ancient and modern times. Enjoy the magnificent view of the Tyrrhenian and lonian coasts.
Day 7
Day 8

Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements. Visitors can marvel at its intricate façade and explore the royal tombs within.

One of Palermo’s most captivating sites is the Capella Palatina, an exquisite chapel within the Norman Palace. Adorned with stunning mosaics and golden Byzantine artwork, this chapel reflects the grandeur of Sicily’s medieval period. The palace itself, once a royal residence, offers a glimpse into the opulent past of Sicilian nobility.

The city's bustling markets are a sensory overload of vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The Mercato di Ballarò and Mercato della Vucciria are among the most famous, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and taste local delicacies like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and cannoli. These markets not only offer delicious food but also an immersive look into Palermo's daily life and traditions.

Fun fact: Palermo is known for its unique street food culture, with the city's market vendors offering some of the best street food in Italy. Be sure to try "pane con la milza," a traditional Sicilian sandwich made with spleen, a local delicacy.


07/04/25 - 07/11/25

Starting At $2,995

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10/10/25 - 10/17/25

Starting At $3,095

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10/31/25 - 11/07/25

Starting At $3,095

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12/05/25 - 12/12/25

Starting At $2,095

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Prices subject to availability and changes without notice. Some restrictions may apply.

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