10-Day Sicily Highlights Tour: Palermo, Syracuse, and Taormina

Journey Through Three Sicilian Pearls

Unveiling Sicily's treasures: Palermo's vibrant culture, Syracuse's ancient Greek wonders, and Taormina's cliffside charm. Explore palaces, archaeological parks, and breathtaking beaches.

This 10-day Sicily itinerary is just a starting point; tailor it with our dedicated travel advisors to suit your family's needs and schedule.

Days:

10±

Price:

from US$3,843 p/p*

Best For:

First-timers

Best Time:

Jun. - Sep.

Flights:

International on request

Cancellation Policy:

100% Refund 22 Days before Arrival

*The price is based on a Small group (Max 12people) tour during the low tourist season: Nov.-Feb.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Sicily Highlights Journey Map

Sicily Highlights Tour: Palermo, Syracuse, and Taormina

Palermo, Syracuse and Taormina Small-group Tour (Suggested Route)

Day Highlights
1-3
Palermo
Experience Palermo's history and flavors
4-5
Syracuse
Discover Neapolis archeological ruins
6-9
Taormina
Explore the Volcano Etna and learn to cook Sicilian cuisine
10
Catania
Departure
This journey allows first-time travelers to experience the highlights of Sicily, and I can also help you plan a customized Italy vacation.
Global Highlights' travel expert
  • Monica Mo
  • 8 years of travel advisor experience
  • Has helped 5,000+ clients

Tour Highlights

Surrender to the soothing tranquility of Taormina as you unwind and soak up its peaceful atmosphere.
relax in Taormina
Explore the fascinating landscape of Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano, on an off-road expedition.
off-road expedition to Mount Etna
Immerse yourself in Sicilian culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class led by a professional chef in Taormina.
pasta making in cooking class
Explore Agrigento's rich history with a local guide at the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Valley of the Temples
Unravel the intriguing story of the Norman Palace, witnessing centuries of power reflected in the grandeur of the Sala d'Ercole.
the Norman Palace
Journey through time in the Palatine Chapel and witness vibrant art styles blending and ancient cultures coming alive.
the Palatine Chapel
Discover Palermo's vibrant Arab market, savor local delicacies, and uncover layers of history at Piazza Pretoria with your guide.
Palermo's vibrant Arab market
Embark on a captivating walking tour to explore the wonders of Syracuse's Neapolis Park and enchanting Ortygia.
Neapolis Park

Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration

Your preferences design the actual journey. We're ready to create a wonderful Italy tour for you.

Day 1
Palermo Arrival
the driver meet clients in the airportPrivate transfer to your hotel
  • Welcome to Palermo! Upon your arrival at Palermo Airport, your friendly driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall.
  • Relax and travel comfortably as you enjoy a private transfer to your comfortable hotel in Palermo.
Day 2
Palermo | Discover Palermo's Historical Treasures
the Norman PalaceWall of the Norman Royal Palace
  • Meet your guide and prepare to explore Palermo's rich history and ancient buildings on a captivating 1.5-hour (join-in) tour!
  • Marvel at the ancient Norman Palace, Europe's oldest royal gem, and witness power echo in the Sala d'Ercole, Sicily's modern heart.
  • Journey through time in the Palatine Chapel and witness vibrant art styles blending, mosaics shimmering, and ancient cultures coming alive.
  • Complete your journey with a tranquil escape. Stroll through the Royal Gardens with your skip-the-line ticket and discover hidden beauty.
  • Return to your hotel at your leisure or explore the charming city further at your own pace.
Day 3
Palermo | Explore Monreale and Savor the Street Food
Monreale CathedralMonreale Cathedral
  • Be picked up from your Palermo hotel and enjoy a 4.5-hour Palermo adventure(Join-in).
  • Explore Monreale's UNESCO-listed Duomo, a dazzling blend of Arab and Norman architecture and mesmerizing mosaics.
  • Head back to Palermo and immerse yourself in its vibrant spirit with a 2.5-hour guided walking tour.
  • Explore the bustling Arab-influenced open-air market, a kaleidoscope of colors and aromas, and indulge in local delicacies!
  • Unravel history's layers at Piazza Pretoria with your guide. Explore the nearby cathedral's secrets, journeying through time with captivating stories and architectural marvels.
  • Conclude your walking tour at the stunning Quattro Canti, a vibrant baroque square perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Day 4
Palermo - Syracuse | Discover the Valley of the Temples
Valley of the TemplesValley of the Temples in Agrigento
  • Be ready in the morning and picked up by the coach bus at your hotel.
  • Enjoy a 9-hour Palermo To Syracuse tour with a visit Of Valley Of The Temples(Join-in).
  • Enjoy the ride to Agrigento and explore the UNESCO site Valley of the Temples with a local expert guide.
  • Savor a Sicilian lunch featuring rustic local dishes.
  • Upon arrival at Syracuse, head to your hotel and enjoy the rest day free to explore the town at your own pace.
Day 5
Syracuse | Neapolis Archeological Ruins Await
Roman Amphitheater in Neapolis Archaeological ParkRoman Amphitheater in Neapolis Archaeological Park
  • The adventure begins! Meet your local guide and the group at the designated meeting point for a 4-hour Syracuse exploration tour(Join-in).
  • Explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park, including the Greek Theatre, Paradise Quarry, and Roman Amphitheatre.
  • Head to Ortigia Island, the historic center, for a walking tour featuring the Arethusa Fountain, the Duomo, and the ancient Apollo Temple.
  • After the tour, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace or return to your hotel.
Day 6
Syracuse - Taormina | Transfer with Villages Discovery
Modica chocolate factory visitModica chocolate factory visit
  • Meet your leader at the designated meeting point for a scenic transfer from Syracuse to Taormina including stops in the Val di Noto gems(Join-in).
  • Arrive at Modica, pay a visit to one of the oldest chocolate factories, and sample some chocolate there.
  • Head to a typical trattoria, to have a local-style lunch with food specialties of this side of Sicily.
  • Explore the Ragusa, a charming Baroque town with free time to wander its unique upper and lower districts.
  • Reach your Taormina hotel and enjoy the rest day free at leisure or explore this lovely town at your own pace.
Day 7
Taormina | Experience the Enchanting Etna
the volcano EtnaThe volcanic crater of Mt. Etan
  • Meet your friendly driver at your hotel and embark on a 7-hour(join-in) off-road journey to the volcano Etna.
  • Witness Etna's power at Piano Provenzana. Lush pines meet dark lava, and the Betulle hotel stands silent, interred in 2002's eruption.
  • Explore Etna's fiery past and see the volcanic caves and unique "buttonhole" craters formed by aligned cones, resembling a row of dress buttons.
  • Savor Etna's bounty in a rustic lunch with appetizers, pasta, dessert, and beverages.
  • Conclude your adventure with a scenic return drive back to your Taormina hotel.
Day 8
Taormina | Market to Table Cooking Class
Pizza making classPizza making class
  • Enjoy a hands-on 4-hour cooking class in Taormina with a professional chef(Join-in).
  • Start by meeting at Porta Messina and heading to a nearby market to select fresh ingredients with the group.
  • Back at the chef's restaurant, you'll don an apron and learn to make traditional Sicilian dishes and pasta.
  • Cap off the experience by savoring your creations with a glass of wine.
  • Receive a certificate and apron to commemorate your culinary adventure.
  • After the class, return to your hotel or explore the lovely town at your own pace.
Day 9
Taormina | Relax and Unwind in The Town
Relax and Unwind in TaorminaRelax and Unwind in Taormina
  • Relax and enjoy the peace of the town. Take a nap in a hammock, read a book in the park, or sit and enjoy the view.
Day 10
Taormina - Catania | Departure
Distance view of Mt.EtanDistance view of Mt.Etan from Taormina
  • Meet your private driver and vehicle for a private transfer to Catania airport.

Hand-picked Hotel

Massimo Plaza Hotel Palermo
Massimo Plaza Palermo
Hotel Mercure Siracusa
MHotel Mercure Siracusa
Villa Fiorita Boutique Hotel Taormina
Villa Fiorita Taormina

Price Includes

*Price from $3,843 per adult

*The price is based on Small Group in 4-star hotels during the low tourist season(Nov.-Feb.). (tour code: gh-it-8)

One-to-one consultancy
One-to-one consultancy
Knowledgeable local guides
Knowledgeable local guides
Private drivers/driver guides and vehicles as listed
Private drivers/driver guides and vehicles as listed
Accommodations Mentioned
Accommodations Mentioned
Breakfasts and meals as listed
Breakfasts and meals as listed
Entry to all attractions on the itinerary
Entry to all attractions on the itinerary
Transportation as listed
Transportation as listed
A 24/7 helpline while traveling
A 24/7 helpline while travelling

Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.

How would you travel?

When would you travel?

What's your hotel choice?

I prefer to be contacted via:

Why Global Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

  • Save Your Time:
  • Less research, more enjoyment!
  • Real-time 1V1 expert planning
  • Maximize Your Flexibility:
  • Personal local guide and ride
  • Explore at your own pace
  • Celebrate Your Journeys:
  • Specially-crafted family adventures
  • Celebrate milestones with style!

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

7-Day Flash Family Adventure in Rome and Venice 14-Day Best of Italy and Greece Tour 10-Day Italy and Greece Family Essence Tour 7-Day Essential Italy Tour | Venice, Florence and Rome

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

How to Plan a Trip to Switzerland and Italy 2024 Planning a Trip to Italy 2024: 7 Tips to Enhance Your Travel How to Plan a Trip to Italy and Greece: 6 Tips (2024) How to Plan a Family Trip to Italy 2024
We are here to help you...
start planning your tailor-made trip with 1-1 help from our travel advisors.
Create Your Trip

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Where Can We Take You Today?

Rated 4.6 out of 5 | Excellence
China Highlights International
Travel Service Co., LTD
Featured on
Global Highlights was featured on these medias.

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China