








Trip summary statistics
12days
Coastal Sicily & Aeolian Island Escape
Catania, Taormina, Milazzo, Salina, Palermo, Sciacca, Syracuse
Uncover Sicily’s history at Tindari’s ruins and the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples.
Get an epic aerial view of Mt. Etna’s volcanic splendor on a private chopper tour.
Discover Salina’s secluded coves and azure waters on a luxe private yacht experience.
Explore Cefalu’s grand cathedral then dive into Palermo’s chaotic, colorful heart.
Relax along Sicily’s southern coast, each detail tailored by your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
We personalize
There's no formula, we simply listen to you and make it happen.
We expertly plan
From your itinerary to the small details, we prepare it all on your behalf.
We don't settle
Refining your itinerary until you're happy, even while you're traveling.
When would you like to travel?
| Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
What's your ideal trip length?
If anything changes, we can always adjust.
Prefer to speak with a destination expert?
Catania to TaorminaYou’ve Arrived
- Airport with Meet & Greet, 1 hr - Private Transfer
- Italy Welcome Package
- Self-Guided: A Taste of Taormina
TaorminaA Healthy Dose of History
- Panoramic Messina & Tindari Archeological Site (7 hrs) - Private Tour
TaorminaA Bird’s Eye View
- Mt. Etna Flightseeing by Helicopter (30 min) - Private
Taormina to Milazzo to SalinaA Change of Scenery
- Taormina to Milazzo Port (1.5 hrs)
- Milazzo to Salina (1.5 hrs) - Hydrofoil Transfer
- Capofaro At Leisure
SalinaSail the Seas
- Salina Island by Private Yacht (8 hrs)
Salina to Milazzo to PalermoOnward and Upward
- Salina to Milazzo (1.5 hrs) - Hydrofoil Transfer
- Milazzo - Palermo [via Cefalu, 6 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver
PalermoPound the Pavement
- Flavors of Palermo Walking Tour (with Tastings, 4 hrs) - Private
Palermo to SciaccaWinding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
- Palermo - Sciacca [2 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver
- 1/2 day Southwestern Coastline Tour (4 hrs) - Private
SciaccaCross an Item off the Bucket List
- Morning at Leisure
- Sunset at Valley of the Temples & Kolymbetra Gardens (5 hrs) - Private Tour
Sciacca to SyracuseThe Journey Continues…
- Sciacca - Syracuse [4 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver
- Syracuse & Ortigia Island Walking Tour (4 hrs) - Private
SyracuseVitamin Sea
- Zodiac Boat Tour (8 hrs) - Private Tour
Syracuse to CataniaUntil Next Time…
- Syracuse to Catania Airport (45 mins) - Private Transfer
CATANIA TO TAORMINA


You’ve Arrived
Meet your private English-speaking assistant outside of airport customs in the baggage claim area, where they will be holding a sign with your name on it. When you're ready to depart, they will bring you to your private vehicle and transfer you to your hotel in Taormina. Approximate travel duration is 1 hour.
A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.
With an abundance of dining options, choosing a restaurant during your day can feel overwhelming. To simplify the experience, your final trip documents will include a curated dining guide highlighting our top restaurant recommendations in Taormina, personally selected by Kensington Tours Destination Experts.
Where you’ll be staying
Sea View Junior Suite
TAORMINA


A Healthy Dose of History
With a private guide & driver, embark on a full day tour journeying toward the northeastern tip of Sicily to explore historic Messina, and the ancient archaeological site of Tindari. With settlement history dating as far back as the 8th century BC, the city of Messina is emblazoned with fingerprints of the past. Admire its stunning Church of San Francesco and the Fountain of Neptune, representing perseverance in the face of adversity in nature. Visit the National Museum, home to a rich collection of portraits and sculptures, including works by renowned late-16th century Baroque painter, Caravaggio. Admire Messina's City Hall, the Church of the Annunziata dei Catalani, and stroll through Piazza del Duomo, home to the city's main cathedral, its tower housing the world's largest astronomical clock. In the afternoon, continue along the northern coast of Sicily for a visit of the archaeological site of Tindari, ancient Tyndaris. A Greek colony founded in 396 BC, the site and its monumental ruins occupy a magnificent position, perched on a cliff high overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Witness ancient archways, the remains of a Roman domus, and an amphitheater. Conclude your day on arrival back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Sea View Junior Suite
TAORMINA


A Bird’s Eye View
Meet your private driver for a transfer to a nearby helipad, the launch point for an unforgettable experience of flightseeing over Mt. Etna by private helicopter. On arrival, you'll meet your pilot and board a private 5-seater chopper, taking to the skies for 30 minutes of stunning aerial views over Sicily's famed volcano and over the surrounding coastline. Enjoy exclusive vantage points, and take in the beauty of Etna and Sicily from above. After your flight, your driver will transfer you back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Sea View Junior Suite
TAORMINA TO MILAZZO TO SALINA


A Change of Scenery
Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to the port of Milazzo. Approximate travel time is 1.5 hours.
Board a ferry for direct service from Milazzo to the island of Salina. The voyage is approximately 1.5 hours.
Spend some time at leisure at Capofaro today, a property designed for rest and recuperation. Enjoy the fresh water pool, surrounded by Malvasia vineyards, indulge your senses in the garden spa and if you feel active, try your hand at paddle tennis, yoga or pilates.
Please let your advisor know if you would like to book any services during your leisure time at the hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Exclusive Suite
SALINA


Sail the Seas
Meet your driver for a transfer to port where you'll board a private yacht and set out for a day with a dedicated skipper, enjoying crystal clear waters as you circumnavigate the island of Salina. With a great knowledge of the local waters, your skipper will leisurely take you around the island, stopping at various points along the way for swimming breaks in the most beautiful island surroundings, including Pollara Bay, made famous in Massimo Troisi's renowned film Il Postino. You'll have an opportunity to disembark midday in the village of Lingua, enjoying some free time to explore and grab a bite before rejoining your cruise. Soft drinks and beer will be provided on board as you enjoy the vantage point of your boat, and the beautiful Mediterranean surroundings. Conclude your day with a private port transfer back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Exclusive Suite
SALINA TO MILAZZO TO PALERMO


Onward and Upward
Board a hydrofoil for direct ferry service from Salina to Milazzo. The journey is approximately 1.5 hours.
Meet your private driver and vehicle transfer to Palermo. En route, you'll be taken to the historic seaside town of Cefalu, where you'll have 3 hours to explore at your leisure. Be sure to take in the UNESCO-listed 12th century Cathedral of Cefalu, flanked by matching towers, resting peacefully in the imposing shadow of the Rocca di Cefalu. Afterward, rejoin your driver and continue onward to Palermo.
Where you’ll be staying
Sea View Deluxe Room
PALERMO


Pound the Pavement
Step into the vibrant heart of Palermo, a city where Mediterranean and European influences collide in a dazzling mix of history, culture, and flavor. With your private guide, set off on a half-day walking tour through lively streets lined with baroque palaces, bustling markets, and centuries-old secrets. Stroll the Quattro Canti, Palermo’s striking baroque square, admire the 12th-century Cathedral and its royal tombs, and weave through the colorful stalls of Il Capo Market, where folklore comes alive. Along the way, savor authentic Sicilian street food like pani ca meusa, panelle, and arancini—a true taste of Palermo’s soul.
Where you’ll be staying
Sea View Deluxe Room
PALERMO TO SCIACCA


Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Sciacca. Approximate travel time is 2 hours.
With a private guide and driver, set out on a half-day tour of Sicily's southwestern coastline. You'll make your way to Eraclea Minoa, an ancient Greek village founded in the 6th century BC atop the ruins of the oldest village of Minoa. Discover impressive findings belonging to the different colonization's of the village, such a Paleochristian church, a Greek theater from 4th century BC, and some ruins of the ancient Greek settlement. From here, continue along the coast to Scala dei Turchi (Stair of the Turks). This impressive white cliff is made of a soft limestone and blinding white marl, eroded majestically over millennia offering the appearance of a staircase descending to the Mediterranean Sea below. After spending some time at this spectacular site, continue toward Porto Empedocle, a coastal town which offers breathtaking views with a combination of an endless skyline and medieval buildings on the waterfront. Conclude your tour on arrival back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room
SCIACCA


Cross an Item off the Bucket List
This morning, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or simply unwind at your hotel and recharge for what is next.
Experience sunset in the stunning surroundings of an ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Valley of the Temples. In the early evening, set out with your private driver to the famed Valley of the Temples where your private guide will be waiting for you. Despite it's name suggesting a low-lying position, the archaeological site (the largest in the world) finds itself atop a ridge outside of Agrigento. It's one of the most visited places on the island, with temples dating back to the 5th century BC. The main temples that you'll visit are the Temple of Juno, the remarkably well preserved 2,500-year-old Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of the Dioscuri. These ancient monuments provide an incredible backdrop as the sun slips behind the horizon. Afterward, continue with a visit of nearby Kolymbetra Garden, originally an artificial lake set between sandstone cliffs in a river valley. Now, citrus trees blossom, pomegranates grow wild, and large wild olives grow as emerald as the surrounding leaves. The lake is now a pool that stands at the heart of the garden as a reminder of the lush past and fertile future of the area. Conclude with a return transfer to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room
SCIACCA TO SYRACUSE


The Journey Continues…
Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Syracuse. Approximate travel time is 4 hours.
Layered with Greek drama, Roman power, and sun-washed Baroque beauty, Syracuse is one of Sicily’s most compelling historic treasures. Meet your private guide and begin at the city’s archaeological park, where the monumental 2,500-year-old Greek Theatre once welcomed up to 15,000 spectators. Nearby, explore the atmospheric stone quarries and the legendary “Ear of Dionysius,” a soaring limestone cave steeped in myth. Continue to the island heart of Ortigia, where winding lanes reveal centuries of Greek, Roman, and Norman influence beneath elegant Baroque faÇades. Step inside the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Syracuse, built upon the 5th-century BC Temple of Athena, where ancient Doric columns still stand proudly within the cathedral walls, a powerful reminder of the city’s layered past.
Where you’ll be staying
Bauhaus Room
SYRACUSE



Vitamin Sea
Embark on a full day of seafaring by private zodiac boat, cruising along the coast between Marzamemi, Vendicari and Portopalo. First, set out with your private driver for a transfer along the coast towards the small village of Marzamemi on Sicily’s southernmost tip. Here you'll meet up with your Guide-Skipper and board a private zodiac boat for a fun and leisurely experience at sea. While cruising, you'll make stops along the way at spectacular observation points to observe the beauty of the seabed, particularly as you cruise toward the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Bring your bathing suits as you'll even get a chance to swim in the Mediterranean. The town of Marzamemi is known for fresh seafood restaurants, so don't hesitate to mention it to your Skipper if you'd like to break for a meal in this picturesque town. Conclude your day with a return transfer back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Bauhaus Room
SYRACUSE TO CATANIA
Until Next Time…
Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Catania Airport. Approximate travel time is 45 minutes.
TAORMINA





Hotel Villa Carlotta
Exuding style and personality, Villa Carlotta is a boutique hotel in Taormina perched in a beautiful setting overlooking the Ionian Sea. Its 29 unique guestrooms and suites feature a Sicilian furnishings with a modern-classic appeal, and a simple elegance which thoughtfully won't overshadow the surrounding landscape. Dine on site and enjoy authentic Sicilian recipes created with unique flair, be it a casual and informal lunch, or a romantic a-la-carte candlelight dinner. Take a short walk to the famous Corso Umberto, a six-minute ride to the beach, or relax by the outdoor swimming pool, set in lush gardens boasting extraordinary views of both Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Enjoy impeccable personal service in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere at Hotel Villa Carlotta.
SALINA






Capofaro
Welcome to Capofaro by Relais & Chateaux, a spectacular boutique estate on the Aeolian Island of Salina where luxury and natural beauty blend in a truly authentic way. Enjoy the best in Mediterranean hospitality on grounds marked by a functional 19th century lighthouse, and surrounded by rows of vines reaching the sea, producing Malvasia grapes, the noble fruit of the island. Stay in one of the 27 rooms and suites, each unique, yet all with their own private terrace offering a stunning sea or garden view. Designed for rest and recuperation, the heart of the experience at Capofaro is the fresh water pool surrounded by 11 acres of vines, a green oasis. Hidden by even more vegetation is the spa, offering holistic treatments and massages. From a walk around the vineyards accompanied by the sommelier, to actively working on the ancient plants themselves, embark on a tactile experience of continuous discovery. Dine on site, with Capofaro’s restaurant leading you on a path through the heart of Sicilian aromas and tastes, balancing tradition and contemporary sensibility.
PALERMO







Rocco Forte Villa Igiea
Discover history, majesty and serenity at Rocco Forte Villa Igiea, a turn-of-the-century palace boasting a prized location on the perimeter of vivid Palermo, the foot of Mount Pellegrino, and overlooking the Gulf of Palermo. A long-loved seaside-meets-city sanctuary for royalty, dignitaries, and Hollywood luminaries, trace their paths through tiered villa gardens that sweep down to the port and out to the Tyrrhenian Sea, or inward to Palermo’s bustling markets and Baroque palaces. Furnished with classic antiques and lavish fabrics, each of Villa Igiea’s 66 rooms and suites is fresh, light, and unquestionably Sicilian. Locally crafted elements pay homage to the villa’s extraordinary setting, with classic parquet and exquisite marble maintaining cool temperatures in the warmest of summers. Dine on-site, while balmy sea breezes sweep in from the azure Gulf, a refreshing reminder of the villa’s island location. All this establishes Villa Igiea as the final word in Palermo's coastal glamor.
SCIACCA








Rocco Forte Verdura Golf & Spa Resort
The Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is Europe's most exciting resort, located on the south coast of Sicily near the seaside town of Sciacca. The resort is set over 230 hectares of stunning landscape with 1.8km of private coastline, with its rooms and suites, give a true sense of space and privacy. All rooms have private terraces and sea views and the Olga Polizzi-designed interiors combine modern luxury with authentic Sicilian motifs. The resort's restaurants and bars celebrate Sicilian cuisine with menus created from fresh organic ingredients complemented by a superb wine list. There are two 18-hole championship golf courses and a 9-hole course, designed by leading architect Kyle Phillips, of which 27 holes will be available at all times; six tennis courts; a 60m swimming pool; a fully-equipped gym and running trails which meander through the olive and lemon groves. For those seeking deep relaxation, the Verdura Spa is exceptional - with four thalassotherapy pools, an extensive treatment list and personalized well-being programs.
SYRACUSE






Ortea Palace
The luxurious Ortea Palace is situated in the heart of Syracuse, overlooking the charming Porto Piccolo of the island of Ortygia. Housed in what was formerly a magnificent early-1900s post office building, the distinguished Ortea Palace preserves its fascinating history while providing guests with a completely refined experience. Boasting 75 elegant guestrooms and suites, bright, spacious, and welcoming interiors offer an exclusive and timeless charm in your own private haven. With a stunning marble staircase and marble floors, stroll through corridors with impressive Murano crystal chandeliers, and exclusive antiques. Relax in the refined lounge bar, dine on-site across several restaurants offering unique blends of fresh cuisine, or take to the spa and wellness center for a range of holistic treatment options. Let Ortea Palace be your gracious host as you experience the delights of Sicily and historic Syracuse.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.









