7-Nights Highlights of Palermo & Taormina - Food & Drink from $4,847

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrive in Palermo

Transfer: Palermo Airportto Palermo

Hotel: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa (4 Star Rating)

Classic elegance and historical beauty all combine to make the Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa a truly exceptional place to stay on your trip to Sicily. The impressive hotel in the centre of Palermo has a distinctive noble facade which is further complemented by a superb location only footsteps from the squares, parks, shopping streets and cafes. The first thing that guests cannot fail to notice at check-in is the regal splendour of this historical hotel, part of which was originally a convent, and which features many artistic, architectural and cultural influences throughout. As the hotel is near the Quattro Canti Square, guests are in the ideal place to absorb the atmosphere of this a baroque piazza, famous for its towering palm trees and awe inspiring cathedral in the heart of Palermo.

Discover Palermo's authentic street food on this unique tour to discover Sicilian culture! The Street food Palermo tour is a small group walking tour through the main squares and street markets of the city centre that allows travellers to taste the best street food in Palermo. Your energetic tour guide will reveal the historic beauty of Palermo, urban legends, folk tales and the most intimate secrets of local cuisine and habits. Along the walk, you will enter places where only real Sicilians go, such as bakeries and old inns to discover the most authentic street food. This tour is not just food! Itineraries are designed to offer travellers a complete overview on the history, arts, food and traditions of Palermo. Don't miss the chance to discover the hidden artistic gems of the markets, that are not always easy to find otherwise!

This private tour takes you to the Agrigento and the magnificent Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO Heritage site, erected by the Greeks during the 5th century B.C. The archeological area of Agrigento became one of the leading cities in the Mediterranean region. The temples in Agrigento are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and the area exemplifies Greek architecture and are considered to be among the most extraordinary representations of Doric architecture in the world. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to walk through the valley including the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Concord, the Temple of Hercules and more.

Transfer: Palermo to Taormina Area

Hotel: Castello Di San Marco (4 Star Rating)

Castello San Marco Hotel & SPA near Taormina is a historic castle-style stay set right by the Ionian Sea, blending old-world character with modern comfort. Rooms and suites are individually styled, air-conditioned and come with free Wi-Fi, minibars and terraces opening onto gardens or sea views. The property has multiple restaurants and bars, a spa with sauna, Turkish bath and hot tub, plus a pool and private beach area. You can also enjoy outdoor activities like tennis or bike rides. The overall feel is relaxed yet distinctive, ideal for a scenic Sicilian escape.

In this unique small group excursion with a professional chef, start with a walking tour to an open-air typical market of Taormina, and then learn how to cook traditional Sicilian cuisine! During the visit to the market, you will discover various vendors selling local fish, meat, fruits, and vegetables. Then, head to a restaurant where you will receive an apron for your cooking class. Your professional chef will share the history of Sicilian wheat, flours, and Sicilian cooking traditions. Together with the chef and the restaurant staff, you will cook some of the typical dishes of the Sicilian tradition such as fresh bread and pasta. Enjoy your bread with extra virgin olive oil and local cheeses and cured hams. Your lesson will be followed by a lunch to enjoy the dishes prepared from the attendees. At the end of the course, you will receive a diploma signed by the chef.

On this half day private tour, you will depart Taormina in a vintage car with a private driver and professional guide for a unique excursion that combines the beauty of the volcano and the experience of local wine production. The first stop will be Mount Etna, the highest volcano still active in Europe. Arrive at the southern face, Rifugio Sapienza, at 1800 meters. Visit the famous Silvestri Craters, now extinct and admire wonderful fauna and flora and the spectacular lunar landscapes. Mount Etna is declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013 and Sicily's most beautiful attraction. Your next experience will be a wine tasting in one of the best wineries and tasting local food.

Embark on a sensory journey celebrating the essence of Sicily. Begin with a fascinating farm tour featuring live bees and honey extraction, followed by a tasting of golden olive oil paired with wood-fired bread. Sample Nocellara dell'Etna olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes alongside vibrant flavored oils and fresh pestos. Savor the sweetness of pure honey and delicacies from the beehive. Indulge in a light lunch paired with five exquisite Etna wines, complemented by regional delights like arancini, bruschetta, aged cheeses, and pistachio crostini. End with Sicilian dolcetto and a sip of Etna grappa, for a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Transfer: Taormina Area to Catania Airport