Southern Italy & Sicily
Italy
A grand journey through Sicily and the south, from Palermo and Cefalù to the Greek temples of Agrigento, Taormina, the cave dwellings of Matera, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and the ruins of Pompeii.
- Dates
- 14 – 26 March 2025
- Length
- 12 nights
- Walking
- 2–3 km a day on some uneven ancient sites and coastal paths; optional easier routes at every stop
Highlights
- Palermo's Arab-Norman architecture and markets
- Cefalù's Norman cathedral and seaside setting
- Agrigento's Valley of the Temples
- Taormina and views of Mount Etna
- Matera's ancient cave dwellings
- Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
- Guided visit to Pompeii
Day by day
Day 1
Arrive Palermo
Airport meet-and-greet and transfer to our Palermo hotel. Welcome dinner with Sicilian specialities and an early night.
Day 2
Palermo
Guided tour of Palermo's Arab-Norman churches and lively markets. Slow pace with frequent rest stops and a long lunch.
Day 3
Monreale and Cefalù
Morning visit to Monreale's golden mosaics, then on to Cefalù for its Norman cathedral and a seaside stroll.
Day 4
Valley of the Temples
Travel to Agrigento and explore the Valley of the Temples. The site is expansive, but we use the shuttle and take frequent rests.
Day 5
Taormina
Drive to Taormina with views of Mount Etna. A gentle walk through the Greek theatre gardens and free time in the old town.
Day 6
Etna or a restful day
Optional excursion to Mount Etna with easy, level viewpoints, or a restful day in Taormina with the tour manager.
Day 7
Ferry to Matera
Ferry from Sicily to the mainland and travel to Matera. Settle into the hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in the cave-dwelling quarter.
Day 8
Matera
Explore Matera's Sassi cave dwellings with a local guide. Routes are chosen to avoid steep climbs, with frequent seated breaks.
Day 9
Sorrento
Travel along the coast to Sorrento. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the sea views, gardens and a gentle walk along the marina.
Day 10
Amalfi Coast
Scenic coach journey to Positano and Amalfi. We take the easier upper routes and enjoy long lunches with stunning coastal views.
Day 11
Pompeii
Guided visit to Pompeii, choosing the most accessible routes through the ancient streets. Return to Sorrento for a farewell dinner.
Day 12
Naples and free time
A short visit to Naples for a panoramic city tour, then a free afternoon in Sorrento to pack or enjoy a final gelato.
Day 13
Homeward
Private transfers to Naples airport after a leisurely breakfast.