Discover the Secrets of Sicily
Sicily Small Group Tour -Step into the true essence of Sicily with our signature Sicily Small Group Tour, limited to just 12/15 guests. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this journey takes you beyond the usual tourist trail and into the heart of Sicilian culture. From the sun-drenched coastline to rolling hills and historic villages, each day offers a new perspective of this enchanting island. Experience the rhythm of daily life as you explore bustling markets, stroll quiet cobblestone streets, and visit family-run farms and vineyards that offer a warm, personal welcome.
Sicily is a land of vibrant flavors, and food is central to our journey. Learn to prepare traditional recipes in local kitchens, sample wines from small regional producers, and enjoy meals crafted with ingredients fresh from the sea and soil. Discover the stories behind iconic dishes like arancini, pasta alla norma, and cannoli, and taste the deep connection between the land and its people. Along the way, explore Sicily’s rich heritage through its seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient ruins of Siracusa and the stunning mosaics of Monreale.
With plenty of time to relax, reflect, and explore at your own pace, this thoughtfully designed tour weaves together culture, cuisine, and natural beauty to create an unforgettable Sicilian experience. This intimate tour is perfect for couples, small family groups, or solo travelers who would prefer not to travel alone.
Upcoming Tour Dates 12 Days/11 Nights
Pricing: € 5,000
Price is per person based on double room occupancy
A single supplement is available at an additional cost of € 1,300
Experience the beauty
Tour Highlights
- Guided tour of Palermo and Monreale
- Guided tour of Ortiga Island and the archaeological site of Neapolis
- Tour of Taormina, a beautiful Mediterranean garden at the foot of Mount Etna
- A tour of the majestic Greek Theatre in Taormina
- A cruise around Isola Bella, a small island off the coast of Taormina (weather permitting)
- Visit the Siracusa open market and sample local wines
- Tour multiple ancient sites, such as the Valley of the Temples, Segesta Temple, and other popular UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Experience the charming countryside towns of Noto, Ragusa, hidden gems like Erice and the romantic fishing village of Cefalu’
- A home-cooked meal in a quaint Sicilian village
- Grasp all about the Mafia and its history in Corleone
- Learn about the history of salt mining at the Museum of Salt near Nubia
- Personalized cooking class in an authentic Italian villa
- Wine tasting in a local winery near Mount Etna
Tour Itinerary
Begin your journey in Palermo, a city shaped by centuries of diverse civilizations and set against the backdrop of Monte Pellegrino and the sea. A morning walking tour offers a closer look at the city’s rich history, winding through narrow alleys and past architectural marvels like the Palatine Chapel and Royal Palace. The vibrant energy of the historic market, Mercato Ballarò, brings daily Sicilian life to the forefront, filled with bold flavors and local character. Later, step into the elegance of the historic Opera House before gathering for a welcome dinner at a neighborhood tavern, where traditional dishes and warm hospitality set the tone for the days to come.
Meals: Breakfast & lunch on your own, dinner included
Accommodations: Overnight in Palermo
A scenic drive through western Sicily’s idyllic countryside leads to Segesta, where a remarkably preserved fifth-century Doric temple stands as a testament to the island’s ancient past. From there, we visit the hilltop town of Erice. Its stone-paved streets and sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian coast offer a glimpse into medieval Sicily. Have lunch in a traditional trattoria and enjoy local flavors in a setting as historic as the town itself. After lunch, travel through the Trapani countryside to the salt flats to learn about Sicily’s ancient white gold. A guided visit to the Museum of Salt provides insight into this enduring industry before returning to Palermo in the early evening.
Meals: Breakfast & lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Palermo
We start in the hillside town of Monreale, just outside Palermo, known for its sweeping valley views and its stunning Norman Cathedral. Inside, golden mosaics depict intricate biblical scenes, making it one of Sicily’s most treasured architectural sites. Then, it’s off to the ancient fishing village of Cefalù, often named among the most beautiful in Italy. Its narrow streets and sunlit squares unfold beneath La Rocca, a dramatic rocky promontory that towers above the town and offers panoramic views of the coastline. Return to Palermo in the late afternoon with time to relax, shop, or dine at your leisure
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Palermo
From Palermo, we journey southwest toward Agrigento, stopping en route in Corleone, a town historically linked to the Sicilian mafia. A local expert explains the complex legacy of organized crime and its impact on modern Sicilian society. In the afternoon, arrive at Agrigento to explore the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant collections of ancient Greek architecture in the Mediterranean. Surrounded by olive groves and open skies, this archaeological park offers a striking glimpse into the grandeur of Magna Graecia. The day concludes with a peaceful evening at a countryside boutique hotel for dinner and lodging
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Agrigento
The day begins with a drive through the scenic heart of Sicily toward our second UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Villa Romana del Casale. Tucked into the countryside near Piazza Armerina, this fourth-century Roman villa is renowned for its remarkably preserved mosaics, considered among the finest in the ancient world. After a relaxed lunch featuring local specialties, the journey continues to Siracusa, where you’ll settle in for a three-night stay at a boutique hotel in the historic center. The evening is yours to enjoy the city’s coastal charm, inviting streets, and excellent restaurants at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Siracusa
In the morning, a local expert will guide us through Siracusa’s archaeological park, once a major center of the ancient Greek world. Highlights include the Greek Theatre, the limestone quarries of the Latomie del Paradiso, and the Ear of Dionysus, a cavern known for its acoustics and historical legends. Afterward, we’ll cross into Ortigia, the city’s historic island district. At Piazza Duomo, the Cathedral stands on the foundations of the ancient Temple of Athena, blending centuries of architecture into one remarkable space. A visit to the open-air market offers the chance to sample local cheeses, meats, and seasonal produce. The remainder of the day is free to explore Ortigia’s piazzas, coastal paths, or quiet cafés at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Siracusa
Today’s excursion takes us into southeastern Sicily to explore the region’s distinctive Baroque architecture. Begin in Ragusa Ibla, a historic hill town known for its winding alleys, quiet piazzas, and dramatic skyline. A visit to a nearby palazzo offers a glimpse of aristocratic life, followed by free time for sightseeing and lunch. Next up is Noto, a city rebuilt in the 18th century after a devastating earthquake and now recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its streets are lined with elegant limestone buildings that take on a warm, golden hue in the afternoon sun. Highlights include the town’s cathedral and grand staircases that frame the central square. This evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Siracusa
Travel north toward Taormina, one of Sicily’s most storied destinations. Along the way, stop in the lively city of Catania with time to explore at your own pace. Catania is known for the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the Teatro Bellini, and the well-kept gardens of Villa Bellini, all showcasing the city’s Baroque character. Continue up the scenic Cyclops Coast, named after the mythological giants in Homer’s Odyssey, and arrive at the home of a Sicilian family for a traditional, home-hosted lunch. Upon arrival in Taormina, settle into a centrally located boutique hotel for a four-night stay. The evening is yours to dine and explore the town as you wish.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Taormina
Take a guided tour of Taormina. Classical ruins and noble architecture speak to centuries of Greek, Roman, and medieval influence. Walk through the historic center, step inside the Cathedral of Saint Pancras, and take in the view from the city’s famed theater, still in use after five thousand years. Later, make your way to the bay for a private boat tour. Cruise the waters around Isola Bella, passing quiet coves and rocky inlets along the coast. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax or explore Taormina’s boutiques, gardens, and cafés. In the evening, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant in Taormina.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Taormina
Travel inland to Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe. Its slopes, shaped by centuries of eruptions, support a striking landscape of lava fields, chestnut groves, and wildflowers. Walk the terrain and learn about the distinctive ecology of this UNESCO-listed site. In the nearby village of Linguaglossa, visit a family-run winery to taste the bold, mineral-rich wines cultivated in volcanic soil, paired with traditional Sicilian fare. Return to Taormina for the evening to relax, explore the town, and enjoy dinner at one of its many local restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast and light lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Taormina
Spend the morning enjoying Taormina at your own pace. Linger in a sunlit café, browse local shops, or simply savor the art of dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing. In the afternoon, we gather for a hands-on cooking class with our friend Luisa. Prepare and enjoy a traditional Sicilian meal together, a fitting and flavorful finale to your journey.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodations: Overnight in Taormina
The time has come to say farewell to Sicily, but the memories and experiences you carry will remain long after you leave. From vibrant markets and ancient ruins to quiet moments in charming villages, this journey has revealed the heart and soul of the island. Morning transfers to Catania airport and train station are arranged, offering a smooth departure as you prepare to carry a newfound appreciation for Sicilian culture and beauty wherever you go. You might considering extending your tour discovering the islands of Sardinia and Corsica
Additional Information
- Small group tour of 12/15 participants
- Knowledgeable tour director in English
- Entrance fees for all archaeological sites
- Tour transportation in a private air-conditioned motor coach
- Local guides in Palermo, Monreale, Corleone, Agrigento, Roman Villa, Siracusa and Taormina
- Hotel city and service taxes at all accommodations and restaurants are included
- All breakfasts, four lunches, and five dinners are covered. Main meals include wine, mineral water, espresso coffee with a set amount included
- Transfers to your hotel and airport at scheduled times. We suggest arriving a day or two before the tour begins to acclimate to the time zone. Your tour will begin at 13:00 on Day 1 from your hotel in Palermo.
- Baggage transfers or porters
- Activity level: Light/Moderate
- Terms & Conditions/single supplement and FAQ
- Travel insurance and visa fees/Trip Interruption & Cancellation Insurance
- Any charges for extras not listed in the itinerary
- Room services, telephone charges, laundry fees
- Gratuities for the tour director and local driver
- Single room supplement
- Airfares
- Ocean View Supplement at Villa Paradiso Hotel in Taormina
Our Happy Travellers
Tour Reviews
Amazing Sicily Tour and Puglia/Matera Tour September 2026
This was my second and third trip with Secrets and once again did not disappoint. Every tour, hotel, meal and experience was wonderful. Our amazing tour managers, Rosaria in Sicily and Sarah in Puglia made this trip so memorable. Their enthusiasm, infectious laughter, fun-loving personality and genuine warmth made every day a joy. The attention to detail, organization and personal touches throughout the trip were exceptional. After 3 wonderful trips with them, I highly recommend Secret Italia Tours. They don’t just organize a trip; they create memories that last a lifetime.
Captivating Sicily - Fantastic Tour
Just returned from fabulous Sicily a few days ago. The tour exceeded my expectations! Firstly, I can’t say enough wonderful things about our tour guide Rosie. It was like traveling with a good friend! She is so joyful with a great sense of humor, incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about her home land of Sicily. To pass the time on the bus she gave us ‘Italian lessons.’ I’m not sure that we were great students but it was a lot of fun!
She was very helpful and thoughtful when my traveling partner didn’t feel well, checking in on her and helping in any way. Also, though the tour had ended, she reached out to the members of our group when all our flights were cancelled due to airport closure caused by Mt Etna eruption. This gave us great peace of mind and was truly above and beyond.
I also want to mention our driver Gaetano who was always on time, professional and a good, safe driver.
The tour itself was a good balance of culture, history, fun activities and free time. The accomodations were wonderful and well located. All the local guides were very knowledgeable and invested in their subject matter. I especially loved the Opera house tour in Palermo, boat tour around Isola Bella, Mt Etna excursion, wine tasting and cooking class at a beautiful villa in Taormina. Finally, but not least, the food was Ottimo!!
Well done Secret Italia!
Captivating Sicily
This trip was amazing! The accommodations were fabulous! The hotels were not only beautiful but were always in a great location for easy access to everything each city had to offer. I loved the variety the excursions offered. We visited beautiful cathedrals, an opera hose, ancient ruins, enjoyed a boat tour, a cooking class, and even visited an active volcano! Something new and different every day.
What truly made this trip exceptional was our tour guide Rosaria! She is an extraordinary person full of enthusiasm, endless energy, extremely knowledgeable, and so much fun!! Rosaria not only guided us through our daily adventures but went above and beyond in every location to be sure when we had free time we all had a chance to see and do everything we wanted. She was ready with recommendations for places to eat, shop, and new sights to visit. An example of Rosie’s thoughtfulness and kindness, Mt Etna decided to spill some extra smoke and ash on our last day. This caused the airport to close leaving us all stranded without flights or a place to stay. Rosie took time on her days off to insure we all had rescheduled flights and a place to stay! She continued to check in on us after our trip was over to be certain we all arrived home safely!
I would strongly recommend this trip with Secret Italia! Thank you for a trip of a lifetime ❤️❤️
Fabulous tour with awesome tour guide!
I just returned from the 12 day tour of Sicily with Rosie! We were so lucky to have Rosie as our tour guide! She was so knowledgeable about all the sites we visited and was so much fun to be with. Our group was so easy to get along with and fortunately most of us were golfers!(No, we didn’t get to golf there!)
Rosie was so caring and kind. When Mama Aetna decided to erupt, we found ourselves without a flight home! Rosie to the rescue! She was so comforting and helpful!
My favorite 12 (14) days!!
In Love with Sicily
I am writing to thank you for the most enjoyable trip with Secret Italia’s Sicily tour which began on May 16th. My wife and I were very impressed and pleased with the accommodations and all of the experiences the tour provided from Palermo to Taormina. I especially want to compliment our guide, Rosaria, who was so knowledgeable, efficient and entertaining. If I were to “invent” the perfect tour guide, it would be Rosaria. She interacted so well with all of the members of our group and kept us on schedule in a warm manner even when some of us became unintentional stragglers. I also want to praise our driver, Gaetano, who was friendly, always on time, and a highly skilled driver. Likewise, we were impressed with our “local guides” who were so knowledgeable, never boring, and able to communicate their information to us with a great command of English. Last, a special thanks to Manuela who handled all the administrative details of our trip so pleasantly and made it look easy when we know how much work organizing these group tours with clients from all over the world must actually be. Congratulations to you as the maestro for such a well run company. We will certainly recommend you to our friends, acquaintances, and family.
Experience the Best
Why Book with Us?
Authentic Travel Experiences
We believe in showcasing the true heart of the Mediterranean. Our meticulously crafted tours delve beyond the surface, immersing you in the local culture, cuisine, and hidden gems that only true insiders know.
Small Group Exclusivity
Our tours are limited to a maximum of 12-15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. You'll enjoy meaningful interactions, flexibility, and the chance to forge genuine connections with both locals and fellow travelers.
Passionate Local Expertise
Our team is deeply rooted in Europe, with extensive knowledge and a love for sharing our homeland. We take pride in hand-selecting accommodations, activities, and experiences that reflect our passion for authentic Mediterranean living.
Stress-Free Travel
Leave the planning to us! We handle every detail, from logistics to unique cultural encounters, allowing you to relax and fully savor every moment of your Italian adventure.
Sustainable Tourism
We are dedicated to responsible travel practices that respect the environment and support local communities. We strive to leave a positive impact wherever we go.
Competitive Rates
Enjoy exceptional value on your European journey. We offer transparent pricing and zero booking fees, ensuring you get the best possible experience for your budget.
Ready to Travel Like a Local?
Get ready to explore Captivating Sicily
Prefer to talk it through? Call us toll free from USA & Canada 1-800-538-0273