8 Days Small Group Food & Wine Tour of Sicily (Max 8 Guests)

Discover Sicily with an 8-Day Food & Wine Tour for Small Groups

This 8-day small group food and wine tour of Sicily offers an intimate exploration of the island’s culinary treasures. Priced at $3,083.18 per person, it caters to groups of no more than eight guests, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour begins in Taormina, a renowned town perched above the sea, and weaves through Syracuse and Palermo, visiting the most iconic and delicious spots along the way.

Travelers who love authentic tasting experiences, scenic views, and engaging guides will find this tour perfectly suited. It combines luxurious accommodations in four-star hotels, visits to Etna, Ortigia, and Noto, and a carefully curated lineup of seven culinary experiences with five lunches and two dinners included. The tour balances guided visits with free time, allowing for personal discoveries, and has received a perfect 5.0 rating from 23 reviews, with 96% recommending it.

Key Points

• Small group size of up to eight guests ensures intimacy and personalized service
• Seven culinary experiences, including five lunches and two dinners
• Visits to iconic locations like Mount Etna, Noto, Ortigia, and Marzamemi
• Accommodation at 4-star hotels in Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo
• Expert guides provide personal insights into Sicily’s food, wine, and culture
• The tour includes exclusive visits to local wineries and authentic trattorias

Starting Your Journey in Taormina’s Charming Streets

The adventure begins in Taormina, a scenic town known for its vibrant city center and spectacular views. Upon arrival at Catania airport, a driver greets guests and transfers them to a cozy hotel in Taormina. The first evening features a welcome walk led by a local licensed guide, who introduces the town’s main attractions, including its monuments and lifestyle.

The guided walk includes three foodie stops: a seafood restaurant, a bottega tasting cheeses, salumi, and wine, and a pastry bar sampling Sicilian sweets and liquors. This initial exploration offers a taste of the local ambiance, setting a relaxed tone for the days ahead.

Hands-On Cooking and Market Visits in Taormina

The next day focuses on immersive culinary experiences. Starting from the Taormina food market, guests learn about local produce directly from farmers, fishermen, and butchers. Under the guidance of a local chef, participants select ingredients and learn to prepare traditional bread, pasta, and fish dishes.

After cooking, everyone enjoys a meal of their own creations paired with local wines. The experience combines market insights, cooking skills, and authentic flavors, making it perfect for food lovers who want to get hands-on. The afternoon remains free for relaxation—perhaps on Taormina’s beaches or exploring independently.

Exploring Mount Etna’s Villages and Volcanic Wines

An out-of-beaten-path trip takes guests to the villages around Mount Etna, beginning with a drive through lava stone houses and olive groves. The journey ascends to 1,000 meters, offering breathtaking views of Sicily’s volcanic landscape.

The highlight is a visit to an antique family-run winery, where guided cellar tours reveal volcanic wine production. Guests sample organic Etna wines with local appetizers, enjoying spectacular views of the coast. Continuing to a rustic farmhouse, visitors taste seasonal antipasti, homemade pasta, and pastries, creating a full day of gastronomic discovery.

Discovering Baroque Noto and the Seaside Charm of Marzamemi

The journey continues south to Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its Baroque architecture. A leisurely walk through the town introduces visitors to its ornate buildings and famous Modica chocolate. Tasting Sicilian ice-cream during the walk adds a sweet touch to the culture.

Later, the group heads to Marzamemi, a picturesque fisherman’s village, for a seafood lunch in a family trattoria. The vibrant seaside setting, combined with authentic local cuisine, offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and culinary delight. Afterward, guests transfer to Syracuse, arriving in time to enjoy the town’s romantic atmosphere.

Evening Food Tour in Syracuse’s Ortigia District

In Syracuse, the focus turns to Ortigia, a historic peninsula with narrow streets and lively markets. The tour begins at 6:30 pm, with a local guide leading a walking tour through Syracuse’s old town.

Guests visit three food venues, sampling fresh fish, Sicilian appetizers, and homemade pastries. The guide shares stories about local history and culture, enriching the experience beyond just food. The tour concludes in the heart of Ortigia, allowing free time to explore its beautiful streets and seaside views at night.

Visiting a Syracuse Winery and Exploring Palermitan Street Food

The next day features a visit to a Syracuse countryside winery housed in a castle-like structure. Guests enjoy a guided cellar tour, a light organic lunch, and wine tasting, discovering the unique characteristics of Sicilian wines outside of Etna’s region.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Palermo, where guests arrive in the evening for free exploration. The following day, a 3-hour street food tour takes guests through Palermo’s bustling markets like Vucciria and Mercato del Capo. Tasting five different Sicilian treats, including panelle and arancini, reveals the variety and richness of Palermo’s street cuisine.

Small Group Size and Expert Guides Enhance the Experience

Throughout the tour, a maximum of eight guests ensures an intimate atmosphere. The guides, described as knowledgeable and personable, bring personal stories and local expertise to each stop. From wine tastings with charismatic hosts to walking tours through historic districts, every activity is designed to be engaging and authentic.

The small group format also allows for flexible pacing and opportunities for personal discoveries. Reviews highlight guides like Massimo, Denise, and Antonio as exceptionally friendly and informative, adding warmth and depth to each day.

Accommodation and Logistics

Guests stay in comfortable 4-star hotels in Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo, providing a relaxing base for daily adventures. The tour includes all ground transport in an A/C Mercedes Minivan, with airport transfers at both Catania and Palermo.

The tour’s schedule balances guided activities with free time, allowing for personal exploration. The pickup from Catania airport occurs at 6:30 pm, and the drop-off is at Palermo airport at the end of the journey.

Safety and Group Size Considerations

In accordance with safety guidelines, the group size is limited to 8 to facilitate social distancing. Guides wear masks, and vehicles are regularly cleaned and ventilated. The tour is suitable for most travelers and emphasizes safety and comfort throughout the experience.

Potential for Personalization and Additional Options

While the core experience is well-structured, optional dinners and lunches are available, adding flexibility for guests wishing to extend their culinary journey. The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 6 days in advance, offering reassurance for planning.

Final Thoughts on the Sicily Food & Wine Tour

This 8-day tour offers an authentic taste of Sicily’s cuisine, wines, and scenic spots, all delivered in an intimate group setting. The personalized guides and carefully curated stops make it a standout choice for foodies seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.

The combination of culinary workshops, vineyard visits, and city explorations ensures a well-rounded journey. While the focus on gastronomy may be less suitable for those seeking more active or sightseeing-heavy itineraries, food lovers will find this tour rich in flavor and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking and some uneven surfaces, most locations are accessible. Guests should be comfortable walking short distances and navigating cobblestone streets.

Are vegetarian options available?
The tour focuses heavily on local Sicilian cuisine, which is meat and seafood-rich. Special dietary needs should be communicated in advance to the tour provider.

What is included in the price?
The price covers accommodation in 4-star hotels, all ground transportation, guided tours, culinary experiences, most meals (including 5 lunches and 2 dinners), and airport transfers.

Can I book this tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, the tour is open to solo travelers, though single room supplements may apply. The small group size ensures an intimate experience regardless.

What safety measures are in place regarding COVID-19?
Guides wear masks, vehicles are regularly cleaned and ventilated, and social distancing is maintained. The tour complies with official safety guidelines.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule balances guided activities with free time, giving guests opportunities to explore independently. Optional activities and meals may be added upon request.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, the tour’s framework suits most times of the year, avoiding peak summer heat and tourist crowds.

What kind of wine will I taste on the Etna and Syracuse winery visits?
Guests sample volcanic wines from Etna and local wines from Syracuse. Each region offers distinct flavors, reflecting Sicily’s diverse terroirs.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers of all ages who enjoy walking, tasting, and cultural exploration will find it suitable. Special needs or young children should be discussed with the provider in advance.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provider’s platform, with confirmation sent promptly. Full details and contact options are available via the tour page.

This 8-day small group food and wine experience provides a genuine taste of Sicily’s culinary soul, balanced with scenic beauty and local culture. Perfect for those looking to indulge, learn, and explore in an intimate setting.