Premium Sicily and Tuscany
17 Days Starting in Palermo, Italy and ending in Venice, Italy
Visiting: Palermo, Marsala, Agrigento, Siracusa, Catania, Rome, Siena, San Gimignano, Florence, Venice
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ZMPLC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy with the "Premium Sicily and Tuscany" tour, where cultural exploration meets culinary delight. Begin in the vibrant city of Palermo, delving into its rich history and savoring traditional Sicilian cuisine. Experience the unique Anti-Mafia Movement tour and a hands-on cooking class. Traverse the picturesque landscapes of Sicily, visiting the medieval town of Erice, the stunning Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, and the awe-inspiring Mount Etna. Continue to Tuscany, where you'll explore the charming towns of Siena and San Gimignano, indulge in wine tastings, and enjoy gourmet dinners amidst the rolling vineyards. Conclude your adventure in the romantic city of Venice, with its iconic canals and historic architecture. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, providing an authentic taste of Italy's most enchanting regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Palermo
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Bongiorno! Welcome to Sicily. When you arrive in Palermo, you’ll be met by a local representative for a complimentary airport transfer into the city. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your fellow travellers and local leader. If you arrive early, you might like to get acquainted with the sights and sounds of the old heart of Palermo. Explore the main monuments like the uniquely styled cathedral, or cafe-hop to try the best of Sicily’s sweets. After your meeting tonight, you'll head out for a traditional Sicilian dinner as a group and get to know the city’s beloved cuisine at a great local restaurant.
Included Activities:
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Day 2: Palermo
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a free morning to see more of Palermo’s small alleyways, buzzing colourful market squares and winding roads. In the afternoon, join a walking tour with your local leader and uncover symbolic places of rebellion and anti-mafia racketeering like the Teatro Massimo, Cape Market, Piazza della Memoria and Beati Paoli Square. You’ll personally meet local shop owners who have had the courage to denounce their extortionists and follow the ethical consumer campaign ‘Pago chi non paga’ – a campaign promoted to support those that rebel against the Mafia. Then, delve deeper into the local cuisine and learn how to create delicious Sicilian dishes with the help of a local chef. As locally sourced products are used in the preparation of these dishes, the menu may differ depending on seasonality and market availability, but whatever you make, you’ll tuck into for dinner. You will also have the chance to taste some local wines, should you wish.
Included Activities:
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Day 3: Marsala
Location: Marsala
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, it’s time to say goodbye to beautiful Palermo and head towards the small town of Erice. Located more than 750 m above sea level, this beautifully preserved medieval town showcases architectural styles from its varied history. When you arrive, you’ll head to a special Genovesi (traditional Sicilian pastries filled with custard or ricotta cream) tasting. After, take a cable car back down to the town of Trapani, then continue south towards Marsala – a coastal town where you’ll be staying tonight. Famous for its sweet dessert wines, you might like to use your free evening to go out and enjoy a sip (or two) or, you can simply stroll the marble paved streets as the sun sets.
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Day 4: Agrigento
Location: Agrigento
Accommodation Name: Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, head east as you stop in the old port of Mazara del Vallo. It’s here that some of the Arab influences in Sicily are most clearly visible. As you stroll through the kasbah (Arab Quarter) you’ll witness the artistic and cultural enrichment brought on by the arrival of Tunisian families in the 70s. Wander the winding lanes and alleyways lined with colourful murals, then continue to Agrigento, stopping at Scala dei Turchi (Stair of the Turks) on the way – this coastline with its white marble cliffs offered protection from the severe winds for the pirates that roamed these waters. Finally, make your way to Agrigento, where you’ll stay in a boutique hotel built in the 13th century and share a meal with your fellow travellers.
Included Activities:
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Day 5: Agrigento
Location: Agrigento
Accommodation Name: Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning after breakfast, travel to the nearby Valley of the Temples. One of the largest archaeological sites in the world, this is where the ancient city of Akragas once stood. Your local guide will bring this classical Greek site to life as you visit the temples of Hera, Herakles, Zeus and Castor and Pollux. Along the way, enjoy views of the landscape and Mediterranean Sea. Return to Agrigento and enjoy a free afternoon. Maybe head to Agrigento's Old Town and wander the narrow alleyways and courtyards or find a local cafe, grab a panino and sit and watch the world go by.
Included Activities:
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Day 6: Siracusa
Location: Siracusa
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, say goodbye to Agrigento and hit the road to Siracusa. Along the way, you’ll stop in Ragusa – one of the most scenic towns in all of Sicily. Explore the town and then continue to Modica, which is particularly famous for its chocolate. After tasting some of the local produce, continue to Noto and get acquainted with the city on a guided walking tour. Lesser-known Noto has recently gained a reputation as an architectural jewel and its limestone structures sparkle on a sunlit afternoon. Finally, arrive in Siracusa, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.
Included Activities:
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Day 7: Siracusa
Location: Siracusa
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, head out on an orientation walk through Ortigia – a small island just adjacent to the main town of Siracusa. Wandering the narrow streets and laneways will reveal ancient ruins, fountains and trattorias. Return to Siracusa in the afternoon, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore. You might like to uncover the Greek theatre, Roman amphitheatre and ancient stone quarries of the Neapolis Archaeological Site, see more of the Siracusa town or simply relax at your accommodation.
Included Activities:
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Day 8: Catania
Location: Catania
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, come face-to-face with Europe’s largest active volcano on a daytrip up Mt Etna. At an altitude of approximately 2000 m, you’ll walk into the centre of an extinct crater and visit a lava cave that can be explored with helmets and torches. Walk among the cold lava streams of Piano Provenzana – a former ski resort that has been destroyed during the last big eruption of 2002. After exploring this fiery natural wonder, continue to Catania. The city has a unique energy – an interesting blend of young and old. On one hand, there’s a gritty bar culture that fuels the nightlife scene, and on the other hand, there’s the Late Baroque towns – the UNESCO World Heritage site, Val di Noto. This afternoon, you’ll get the opportunity to explore both sides of the city by wandering through its grand piazzas and wide roads.
Included Activities:
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Day 9: Catania
Location: Catania
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast today, take a day trip to the city of Taormina. Start things off with a guided walk, where you’ll notice Greek influence in the architecture. Walk through the back streets, gardens and the world-famous Greek theatre and cathedral. The afternoon is free, so there's plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Have a drink in the Mediterranean sun or dig into some traditional Sicilian pasta before heading back for your final night in Catania. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant with your newfound travel friends and group leader.
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Day 10: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: The Republic Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: The Republic Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today catch an unescorted flight to Rome to being the second half of your Italian adventure. If you arrive with time to spare, the city’s magnificent buildings are best appreciated on foot, so perhaps wander in search of an espresso. There will be second group meeting this evening, where you will meet your new local leader and fellow travellers. Then get your first taste of Roman cuisine over an included dinner with your group at an excellent local restaurant. Sitting down to dinner in Rome means experiencing generations of culinary know-how and timeless traditional recipes.
Included Activities:
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Day 11: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: The Republic Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: The Republic Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
From ancient monuments to romantic restaurants, Rome is a city of great beauty and diversity. Today, join a private guide for a trip to the Spanish steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona before reaching Campo de Fiori, where a local fresh produce market has been held since 1869. Join your leader for a quick stop at a local bar for a granita (an iced Italian espresso), then visit a local aristocrat in his home close to the Campo de Fiori. Much of the apartment is still in its original state, including the painted ceiling. Chat with the owner before sitting down for an included lunch in the dining room. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe follow in the footsteps of gladiators and Roman emperors with a visit to the iconic Colosseum – one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
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Day 12: Siena / Monteriggioni / San Gimignano Region
Location: Siena
Accommodation: Borgo San Luigi (Feature Stay) or similar
Accommodation Name: Borgo San Luigi (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll take a private vehicle to the city of Siena, where your leader will show you the most interesting sights on an orientation walk. At the city’s heart is Piazza del Campo – home to the biannual Palio horse race and nearby the Siena Cathedral. Next, visit Monteriggioni – a medieval walled town with over a dozen towers once used to defend Sienese territory from the Florentines. You’ll have time to explore this tiny hilltop spot before arriving at your Feature Stay accommodation near San Gimignano. This country hotel with views of a tree-studded landscape geatures an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant. Tonight, indulge in an included gourmet dinner made with local ingredients that pays homage to traditional Tuscan dishes, with a modern twist.
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Day 13: San Gimignano Region
Location: San Gimignano
Accommodation: Borgo San Luigi (Feature Stay) or similar
Accommodation Name: Borgo San Luigi (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the day with a visit to San Gimignano – the 'Town of Fine Towers'. Explore the medieval Old Town centre and its Gothic and Romanesque architecture with your leader. This region is also renowned for its ancient Vernaccia grapes, which are the basis for one of Tuscany's finest white wines. Your group will visit a local agriturismo, where you’ll explore the vineyards and sample some of their celebrated wine, before enjoying an included lunch featuring regional cheese, fine olive oil and bruschetta. Return to your Feature Stay accommodation for another delicious dinner.
Included Activities:
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Day 14: Pisa / Lucca / Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Adriatico or similar
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Adriatico or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’ll visit Pisa. It’s not always possible to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa due to its precarious state, but as your leader shares the history of this legendary building, you’ll have the opportunity to take a photo from the ground. Your next stop is historic Lucca – one of Italy’s most beautiful but underrated cities – where you’ll take a short walk along the city’s beautifully preserved Renaissance walls. From here you’ll take the short journey to Florence where the evening is yours to walk the cobbled streets, eat gelato and soak up the unmistakenly Tuscan atmosphere.
Included Activities:
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Day 15: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Adriatico or similar
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Adriatico or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, join a private guided walk of Florence, including a visit to the Galleria dell‘Accademia – an art museum renowned for its collection of sculptures, including the iconic statue of David by Michelangelo. You then have a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Visiting the Uffizi is highly recommended as it’s one of the oldest galleries in the world. Maybe head to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views of Florence’s timeless skyline and sample some of the culinary delicacies on offer from across Tuscany, with dishes known for their freshness, simplicity and quality. Olive oil, beans and herbs are a feature here.
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Day 16: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Ca dei Conti or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Ca dei Conti or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, head to the railway station and take a high-speed train to Venice. When you arrive, your leader will take you on an orientation walk so you can get acquainted with the city’s maze of canals and learn about its unique history. You will make a stop at Palazzo Pisani which was once home to one of the most powerful Venetian dynasties which now houses the Music Conservatory of Venice. You will explore the ornately frescoed halls of this Baroque masterpiece and discover the masonic symbols hidden in the stuccoes. You can also take the stairs to rooftop for a spectacular aerial view of the city. and take in the view of the city from their rooftop. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. The Grand Canal, the shopfronts that line the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza and Basilica di San Marco are all worthy sights to visit, or you can simply meander around the tiny, cobbled streets and discover the local markets, cafes, galleries and churches. A Venetian gondola ride down the canals is a must, as is a taste of the region’s dessert speciality – tiramisu. Later in the evening, join your leader for a Venetian dinner.
Included Activities:
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Day 17: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent to arrange additional accommodation.
Optional Activities:
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What's Included
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Accommodation
Comfortable Hotel (12 nights), Feature Stay (4 nights) -
Meals
16 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 9 dinners -
Palermo - Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Enjoy a complimentary arrival transfer upon reaching Palermo.
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Palermo - Welcome Meeting
Participate in a welcome meeting in Palermo to meet fellow travelers and your local leader.
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Palermo - Welcome Dinner
Experience a traditional Sicilian welcome dinner in Palermo.
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Palermo - Anti-Mafia Tour
Join an Anti-Mafia Movement tour in Palermo to discover symbolic places of rebellion.
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Palermo - Sicilian Cooking Class
Learn to create delicious Sicilian dishes in a cooking class in Palermo.
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Erice - Town Visit
Visit the beautifully preserved medieval town of Erice.
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Erice - Genovesi Tasting
Enjoy a Genovesi tasting in Erice, sampling traditional Sicilian pastries.
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Erice - Cable Car
Take a cable car ride in Erice for stunning views.
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Mazara del Vallo - Kasbah Visit
Explore the Kasbah in Mazara del Vallo, witnessing the artistic and cultural influences.
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Scala dei Turchi - Visit
Visit the Scala dei Turchi, known for its white marble cliffs.
Transport
Private vehicle , train , flight
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATIONThe style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.TWIN SHARE BASISAccommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.CHECK-IN TIMEThroughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATIONIf you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.FACILITIESEuropean hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.
Important Information
1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room?on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip?and is subject to availability. There are a limited number of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.3. The flight from Barcelona to Lisbon has a 20kg checked luggage allowance, plus a personal item (i.e. handbag or small bad) which can be taken into the cabin.4. This trip is a combination of two trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.
Mode of Transport
Travel throughout the tour is facilitated by private vehicle, train, and flight, ensuring a seamless journey across the beautiful landscapes of Sicily and Tuscany.
Accommodation
Accommodation on this tour is primarily on a twin/multishare basis, with occasional alternative arrangements due to availability. Rooms are requested to be ready upon arrival, though immediate check-in may not always be possible. Facilities may be shared, and European hotels typically do not provide kettles or fridges.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a combination of private vehicles, trains, and flights for transportation.
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What is the accommodation style during the tour?
Accommodation is on a twin/multishare basis, and solo travelers are paired with another traveler of the same gender. The style of accommodation may change due to availability, but a similar standard will be maintained. European hotels generally do not provide kettles or fridges.
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Is there a complimentary airport transfer included?
Yes, a complimentary airport arrival transfer is included if you arrive on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through the tour provider.
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes unique experiences such as a visit to a Roman nobleman's home for lunch, a Sicilian cooking class, and an Anti-Mafia Movement tour in Palermo.
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Are there any special meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several special meals such as a welcome dinner in Palermo, a gourmet dinner in the Chianti Region, and a farewell dinner in Venice.
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What activities are planned in Palermo?
In Palermo, activities include a welcome meeting, a traditional Sicilian dinner, an Anti-Mafia tour, and a Sicilian cooking class.
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What can I expect during the visit to Mount Etna?
During the visit to Mount Etna, you will walk into the center of an extinct crater, visit a lava cave, and explore the cold lava streams of Piano Provenzana.
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What is the itinerary for the day in Rome?
In Rome, the itinerary includes a guided walking tour of the city's famous sites, a coffee granita tasting, and a visit to a nobleman's home for lunch.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions