SICILY: 5 DAYS CIRCUIT

Arrival at the hotel in wonderful Palermo on your own (on request possibility of private transfer). Brief briefing with our escort-guide, dinner and hotel accommodation.

After breakfast at the hotel, the morning will be dedicated to discovering Monreale where we will visit its magnificent Arab-Norman cathedral, defined as the eighth wonder of the world, and the beautiful Cloister, a masterpiece of the art of carving hard stones. Next, we will admire the wonderful treasures of Palermo . The city is located at the foot of Mount Pellegrino on a promontory described by Goethe as the most beautiful he had ever seen. In Palermo, more than anywhere else in Sicily, historical eras with their different architectural styles overlap. Its artistic and architectural heritage includes the remains of the Punic walls, Art Nouveau villas, noble residences, 17th century squares, baroque churches and neoclassical theatres. Residence of emirs and kings, Palermo preserves monuments from the Arab-Norman period, including the beautiful cathedral, the Martorana church , one of the most fascinating Byzantine churches of the Middle Ages in Italy, and the Palatine Chapel , considered to be the best example of fusion between different cultures and religions since under Ruggiero II there were Byzantine, Muslim and Latin masterclasses. Gastronomic surprise at the famous Antica Focacceria San Francesco . Free lunch. Next, we can admire the Teatro Massimo and the Praça Pretoria fountain, adorned with 16th-century sculptures and located in the old district of Kalsa. Dinner and hotel accommodation.

After breakfast, we will transfer to Cefalù , a beautiful coastal town with an impressive view of the Mediterranean Sea and an imposing Norman cathedral. Walk through the streets of the center and the possibility, for those who wish, to visit the famous Mandralisca Museum. The circuit will continue to Catania where, after a break for lunch, we will visit the historic center of the city, whose Baroque style has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Countless riches hidden in this splendid city, whose late baroque architecture is unique thanks to the use of volcanic rocks. We will cross the wonderful "Piazza del Duomo", with its splendid cathedral and its stone elephant, symbol of the city. We will continue with the University square and the baroque Crociferi street where the famous Monastery of San Benedicto is located, known for the Romanzo “Storia di una Capinera” by Verga and a World Heritage Site. Stop at a bar in the city to enjoy the typical granita with brioche. Dinner and hotel accommodation.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will quickly visit the historic " pescheria " (old fish market) before leaving to discover Mount Etna , the highest active volcano in Europe (3,350 meters) declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Etna Park, with its 59,000 hectares, boasts a varied flora and fauna with many protected species. Today vineyards, olive groves, pistachio trees, hazelnut trees and fruit orchards that surround the volcano, testify to an agricultural vocation of the territory that is characterized by the presence of local varieties. Interesting landscapes can be admired arriving at the Rifugio Sapienza. From there we will reach the "Crateri Silvestri", extinct volcanic cones surrounded by lava flows. The panorama, whose beauty can be enjoyed through the multitude of volcanic cones and craters, is a truly exclusive spectacle. Next, the possibility of visiting a beekeeping company and a rustic winery with a honey tasting and typical craft products from the area. Departure to Taormina , famous for its natural landscape, its marine beauties, its historical monuments and its unforgettable panorama with a privileged view of Etna. Free time for lunch. Next, visit the fascinating Greek-Roman theater from which we will enjoy an impressive view of the Gulf of Naxos. Free time to stroll through the medieval alleys where you can buy the typical craft products of the island (lace and embroidery, ceramics, coral jewelry and splendid lava stone work, perfumes, sweets and much more...). The day will end with a panoramic visit of the marvelous Riviera of the Cyclopes. Return to the hotel in Catania. Dinner and accommodation.

Our circuit ends here. Breakfast at hotel and end of services.