Discover the Secrets of Calabria
The Calabria, Aeolian Islands & Cefalu’ Small Group Tour offers an authentic taste of the rich culture and natural splendor of Southern Italy. Explore the beauty of some of Italy’s most authentic and lesser-known regions on this exclusive 12-day adventure. Limited to a small group of no more than 15 guests, there’s space to savor every moment, like a homemade meal in a family-run trattoria or a quiet morning walk through a centuries-old piazza.
Calabria is full of sleepy seaside terracotta-colored Italian villages and bucolic hilltop towns far removed from the lightning pace of most modern cities. It is home to world-famous Calabrian peppers and nearly a third of Italy’s olive oil production. Its diverse cultural heritage gives it a decidedly international feel within charming small-town settings.
Travel down the coast of Sicily and explore the breezy Eolian Islands, named after Aeolus, the Greek god of the winds. See the mighty Stromboli, Aeolus’s mythical home and one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Visit Cefalu’, a quaint Norman fishing village nestled beneath the imposing fortress called La Rocca (The Rock). History enthusiasts will marvel at the ancient Temple of Diana, while nature lovers can relax on pristine sandy beaches or climb the scenic stairs for breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Throughout the journey, you’ll stay in boutique hotels, enjoy regional cuisine, and explore with local guides who know these places by heart. Let Secret Italia Tours lead you through the landscapes, flavors, and stories that make Southern Italy so unforgettable.
Upcoming Tour Dates 12 days/ 11 nights
Last Minute
Pricing: € 5,300
Price is per person based on double room occupancy
Single supplement available at the cost of € 1200,00
Experience the beauty
Tour Highlights
- Admire some of the most splendid bronze sculptures of ancient Greece in Reggio Calabria
- Swim in crystal clear waters that sparkle along the coasts
- Taste Calabria’s authentic spicy pepperoncini peppers, locally produced olive oil, and other Cambrian delicacies
- Enchanting Volcano Island with its Yellow Sulphureous Baths and volcanic craters
- Walk on the volcanic Aeolian Islands of Sicily, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Picture perfect mountain vistas, winding narrow streets, pristine beaches and coves.
- Discover Lipari with its Archaeological Museum and Greek Acropolis
- Beautiful and natural Salina island, a delight to explore
- Guided tour of Pizzo with tastings of Tartufo
- Discover the romantic town of Tropea
Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Lamezia Terme, where your driver will take you to charming accommodation in the heart of Calabria. In the evening, join your fellow travelers and tour leader for a welcome dinner full of local flavors and friendly conversation.
Meals: Dinner included, breakfast & lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Tropea
Discover the cliffside town of Tropea, on the Tyrrhenian coast, known for jaw-dropping views and sandy white beaches. After breakfast, explore its historic center, visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, and wander the lush gardens here before boarding our private boat that will take you up the Calabrian coast. The afternoon is yours to relax, stroll through the local shops, and check out the town’s diverse architecture before a group apericena.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Tropea
Visit the National Museum in Reggio Calabria, which houses an incredible collection of artefacts from the 6th to 4th centuries BC. Its most famous exhibit is the Greek Bronzes, two life-sized Greek warrior statues recovered from the sea in 1972, now considered masterpieces of classical art. We’ll stop off in the charming fishing village of Scilla, home of the sea monster Scylla of Greek mythology. Known as the Venice of southern Italy, many of Scilla’s homes are built over water with street access from behind.
Meals: Breakfast included, dinner and lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Tropea
Explore the heart of Pizzo Calabro with a local guide, discovering historical places, hidden corners, and panoramic views. Ride through the scenic streets in a Piaggio Ape Calessino and visit the unique Chiesetta di Piedigrotta, a cave chapel carved with intricate stone sculptures, beneath a 15th-century Aragonese Castle. There’s plenty of time to relax, shop, or sightsee on your own before a hands-on group cooking experience with a local family.
Meals: Breakfast & dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Tropea
Ferry to Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands. En route, stop at Vulcano Island, once believed to be the chimney of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire. An active volcano, its sulfur baths, calderas, and steaming craters are awe-inspiring. Upon arrival in Lipari, check into a charming central hotel for a four-night stay. In the evening, join your tour group and director for an aperitif at a local bar.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch & dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Lipari
Start with a guided walking tour of the 6,000 years of history on Lipari. In this place, ancient Greek landmarks and Roman ruins meet striking volcanic landscapes. Visit the renowned archaeological museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Greek theater masks. Then, head to a celebrated local winery to sample Malvasia delle Lipari and Carricante wines alongside a lunch of regional dishes.
Meals: Breakfast & lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Lipari
First, board a boat to Panarea, a small island known for its laid-back style and pretty, whitewashed lanes. You’ll have time to wander the village and take in the peaceful, upscale vibe. From there, sail to Stromboli, a raw, volcanic island that feels worlds apart. Its black sand, smoky craters, and rumbling energy offer a dramatic contrast to Panarea’s calm. Stroll the narrow streets, browse local shops, and take in the beauty of one of the world’s most active volcanoes before returning to Lipari for a relaxed evening.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Lipari
This morning, take a short boat ride to Salina, a quiet island known for its green hills and caper bushes. It’s also famous for the grapes used to produce Malvasia wine. You’ll tour the island by Ape Calessino or minivan, stopping at a local winery for a tasting. Afterward, the afternoon is yours to relax, rejuvenate, and explore. In the evening, we’ll gather at a local restaurant for a taste of regional cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Lipari
Travel to the medieval hill town of Montalbano Elicona in the Nebrodi Mountains. From the port of Milazzo, a scenic drive takes you up winding roads with spectacular views of the Aeolian Islands. Enjoy walking the narrow Cobblestone streets, visiting the Aragonese Castle, a small museum, and a 14th-century church. Indulge in local cuisine before continuing to a nearby plateau scattered with ancient megaliths, nicknamed Sicily’s Stonehenge. The site’s origins are still debated, adding to its mystique. End the day in Cefalù, where you’ll spend the next three nights in a central boutique hotel.
Meals: Breakfast included, lunch and dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Cefalu’
Head into the scenic Madonie Mountains, stopping in the charming hill town of Castelbuono, built on the ruins of a Byzantine village. It is best known for its castle, which has a mix of Arab-Norman and Swabian features. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take in the rustic beauty of the village. After a panoramic drive through the breathtaking countryside, return to Cefalù for a leisurely afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included, dinner on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Cefalu’
Today is yours to experience Cefalù at your own pace. Stroll through cobbled lanes, relax by the sea, or explore the town’s historic churches and sunny piazzas. Fans of Cinema Paradiso may enjoy spotting familiar scenes filmed here. Whether you’re exploring or unwinding, Cefalù invites you to savor it your own way. For a bit of adventure, consider hiking up La Rocca for sweeping views of the coastline and town below.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included, lunch on your own
Accommodation: Overnight in Cefalu’
After breakfast, we say farewell to the Sicilian region. From coastal villages and volcanic islands to mountaintop towns and memorable meals, we hope this journey has left you with lasting impressions and a deeper love for Southern Italy. This morning, you’ll be transferred to the Palermo airport or train station for your journey home.
Additional Information
- Small group tour of 12-15 participants
- Knowledgeable English-speaking tour director
- Entrance fees for all sites
- Tour transportation in a private air-conditioned motor coach.
- Local guides in the outlined cities and towns
- Hotel city and service taxes at all accommodations and restaurants are included
- Transfers to Lamezia and Palermo at scheduled times
- Baggage transfers and porters are included
- All breakfasts, five dinners and two lunches are covered. Main meals include wine, mineral water, espresso coffee with a set amount included
- 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
- Extend your stay in Tropea and Cefalu’
Tour Reviews
Simply Calabria ...The Best!!!
I Have returned home about 10 days ago. It was a fabulous trip to Calabria. Calabria presented itself to me as a beautifully dramatic, warm, authentic, inviting and spicy region. Thank you for another perfectly executed and memorable trip.
I believe the region is an under rated tourist destination and it deserves more attention than it gets. The people are warm, welcoming, very hospitable and kind. I loved the stunning landscapes, scenery and beaches. The Riace warriors were one of my favorite things to see and learn about and our local guide on that day was truly exceptional. I would be remiss if I did not give lots of credit to both our wonderful and very very knowledgable guide Mauro and our amazing and animated BEST private driver EVER, Ciccio! Mauro shared a wealth of information with us, was lots of fun and very attentive to all. He learned everyone’s names quickly, Being a native of Calabria, he was enthusiastic and it allowed for a more personal touch with a lot of local color. He was with us every step of the way, gave great suggestions for a variety of restaurants, was decisive and made every attempt to accommodate requests by group members. He was very clear, had great command of English and gave attention to detail. He became aware early on of physical limitations a couple people had in the group and did his very best to accommodate them as best he could. He had great patience and endurance. Personalities are not always easy. I would say, he made every effort to engage everyone in a very positive manner. .
Ciccio was a lively character with an incredible amount of energy. As he lived in Pizzo, he was out and about in the town. We went to his son’s or grandson’s bar in the square and were treated so kindly. One day, I bought an extra piece of luggage and Ciccio saw me
In the square and rushed over to insist I let him take it to the hotel so I could keep shopping. He was always on the move, hard working and went out of his way to do extra little things. Ciccio was a super star driver, from picking us up in Lamezia to getting us to Taormina on the ferry, and everything in between,. He was punctual, outgoing and enthusiastic. Overall the trip was great. Calabria is truly a hidden gem. I wish I had a few more days there. In the future I hope to go to ON YOUR SARDINIA AND CORSICA SMALL GROUP TOUR.
THANK YOU ALDO FOR ANOTHER GREAT EXPERIENCE AND ESPECIALLY FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK IN STRIVING TO MAKE THESE JOURNEYS VERY SPECIAL AND MEMORABLE . THANK YOU ALSO TO KATRIN AND MANUELA
Breathtaking Calabria
Just wanted to say a big thank you for one of the best tours we have ever been on. We saw a side of Calabria we could never have imagined and Luca our guide was fantastic and so knowledgeable. We meet lovely sisters Mary and Christina and we could not have asked for a better couple of people to see this truely hidden gem. Being children of Calabrian parents I wish they could have seen Calabria like this as well. Aldo & Katrin thank you again, will definitely book again with you!!
Backroad Calabria
It has been a month since our Calabria tour and I am still reliving the memories in my mind! Once again Secret Italia made sure the hotels and activities were top notch! We love the fact that the hotels on your tour are not big hotels and they have the unique qualities of the surrounding area! They were charming and the service was wonderful. The hospitality was exceptional at the Barbieri Hotel! The daily itinerary had some amazing sites, especially the Devil Bridge! What an experience riding off-road to get there. We had so much fun that day. Your tours always include interesting places. They are not just the typical tourist places. And the food! The sweet peppers and onions of Calabria were my favorite. Each meal we had was better than the last. All of the restaurants were high quality. We were so very lucky to have our favorite tour guide Luca to show us the wonders of Calabria! He is so knowledgeable and gives such insight into the culture! Luca is the best!
Secret Italia does not disappoint! You continue to offer varied and interesting small group travel tours and I hope to travel with Secret Italia in the future!
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.
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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.
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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.
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