8 Days Small Group Sicily Highlights (Max 8 Guests)

Discover Sicily with an 8-Day Small-Group Tour Offering Intimate Experiences and Iconic Highlights

This 8-day small-group tour of Sicily offers an immersive look into the island’s food, culture, and history, all with a maximum of 8 guests to ensure a personalized experience. Priced at $2,990.46 per person, it is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive journey through Sicily’s most celebrated locations, including Taormina, Mount Etna, Noto, Syracuse, Agrigento, and Palermo. The tour is well-regarded, holding a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on 71 reviews, and is recommended 100% by past participants.

From the moment of pickup at Catania airport until the transfer to Palermo airport on the final day, every element is arranged to minimize stress. The itinerary balances guided excursions, authentic meals, and free time, with a focus on local food, wine, and film history, making it a popular choice for travelers eager to see Sicily’s highlights in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Intimate group size of 8 guests ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Comprehensive 8-day itinerary covers major sites like Mount Etna, Noto, Syracuse, and Palermo
• Includes accommodations in centrally located 4-star hotels for seven nights
• Excursions feature food and wine tastings, film location visits, and a volcano ascent
• All ground transportation is in an air-conditioned Mercedes minivan
• Pickup at Catania airport and drop-off at Palermo airport are included for smooth logistics

Starting Your Sicilian Adventure with Taormina Food & Wine

The journey begins with an evening Food & Wine tour in Taormina, a charming hilltop town celebrated for its lively atmosphere and stunning views. You’ll meet your local guide in the town center, exploring the best spots to taste authentic Sicilian dishes and local wines. This three-hour tour finishes around 9 PM, leaving plenty of time to soak in Taormina’s vibrant nightlife or relax at your hotel.

This initial experience sets the tone for the trip, emphasizing local flavors and traditions. The guide’s insights help you understand the cultural importance of food and drink in Sicilian life, making it a perfect introduction to the island.

Visiting the Filming Locations from The Godfather in Savoca and Forza D’Agrò

On day two, the tour moves to the villages of Savoca and Forza D’Agrò, where some of the most famous Godfather movie scenes were shot. This excursion lasts about five hours and begins with a visit to the Vitelli bar, known for its role in the film, where an aperitif is included. You’ll enjoy a terrace lunch with views that evoke the cinematic magic.

The guide shares stories about the filming process and true mafia history, adding depth to the experience. Afterward, a walk through these historic villages reveals typical architecture, and the Greek Theater in Taormina is also on the day’s agenda, offering a blend of movie lore and ancient ruins.

Exploring Mount Etna and Its Volcanic Landscape

Day three is dedicated to Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. The tour visits the Silvestri craters, where free time allows for walking on lava flows and capturing photos of the dramatic landscape. The ascent continues by cable car and optional Jeep ride to 3,000 meters, led by an English-speaking Alpine Guide.

This day also includes a visit to a local winery on the slopes of Mount Etna, where vulcanic wines and organic foods are tasted. The experience combines nature’s power with local culinary craftsmanship, offering a memorable glimpse into how the landscape shapes regional flavors.

Discovering Noto’s Baroque Beauty and Marzamemi’s Fisherman’s Village

On days four and five, the tour heads south to Noto, renowned for its UNESCO-listed Baroque architecture. A gentle walking tour reveals the ornate facades and historic streets, with a chance to sample Modica chocolate along the way. This stop highlights Sicily’s artistic and architectural richness.

Following Noto, the group visits Marzamemi, a charming fisherman’s village famous for its fresh seafood. A traditional fish lunch in a family-run taverna completes the day. In the evening, the tour moves to Syracuse, allowing time to enjoy this romantic city at your own pace.

Uncovering the Ancient Ruins of Syracuse and Ortigia

The fifth day features a guided walking tour of Ortigia, Syracuse’s historic heart. Highlights include the Apollo Temple, the Jewish district, and the Duomo Square, where the stunning Duomo and Archimede Fountain are located. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and offers rich stories about the city’s ancient past.

In the morning, a free period allows for independent exploration—whether visiting the Food Market, the Neapolis archaeological site, or taking a boat tour. This flexibility caters to various interests within the city’s vibrant streets.

Touring Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples

Day six takes the group further west to Agrigento, home to the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guided two-hour tour explores the impressive Ancient Greek ruins, including several well-preserved temples. The visit is both educational and visually impressive, set against a striking landscape.

A seasonal lunch in a local taverna follows before the journey continues to Palermo. The evening in Palermo is free, giving the opportunity to explore this bustling Sicilian capital at leisure.

Exploring Palermo’s Historic Streets and Landmarks

On day seven, a two-hour walking tour of Palermo introduces the city’s diverse architecture and lively neighborhoods. The guide points out key sites such as Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, the Cathedral, and the Martorana Church. During the walk, a typical Palermo wine is offered to enhance the experience.

The evening is yours to enjoy Palermo’s lively atmosphere, with suggestions for local dining or simply relaxing at your hotel. This final full day provides a balanced mix of sightseeing and free time.

Seamless Travel and Comfortable Transportation

Throughout the tour, transportation is in an air-conditioned Mercedes minivan, ensuring comfort even during longer drives between sites. Pickup at Catania airport and drop-off at Palermo airport are included to simplify logistics. Each hotel stay is in centrally located 4-star accommodations, providing convenient access to each city’s highlights and an element of luxury.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This 8-day Sicily tour combines guided sightseeing, authentic food tastings, and scenic landscapes to deliver a well-rounded experience. The small group size fosters intimacy and personalized attention, while the carefully curated stops ensure visitors see both ancient monuments and charming villages.

While the itinerary is packed, the pace allows for leisurely exploration without feeling rushed. The tour is most suited for adults who appreciate history, food, and scenic views, and who prefer a structured yet flexible schedule. The inclusion of accommodations, most meals, and airport transfers offers excellent value for a comprehensive Sicilian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers accommodations in 4-star hotels, ground transportation, most meals (one dinner and four lunches), and guided tours at key stops.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, pickup at Catania airport and drop-off at Palermo airport are included.

How many people participate in this tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
The itinerary involves walking through towns and archaeological sites; physical requirements are moderate, but check specific site accessibility if needed.

What is the best time to book?
Most bookings are made about 136 days in advance, and the tour departs on November 4 or 11, making early reservations advisable.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are subject to partial refund or no refund.

Is food included at every stop?
Most meals are included, with one dinner and four lunches provided, while some free time allows for additional independent dining.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of film history locations, Mount Etna exploration, and authentic Sicilian cuisine sets this tour apart, along with its small-group format and personalized attention.

How are the guides described?
Past reviews highlight guides like Massimo, Alfredo, Valerio, Cristina, Maria, and others for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

Are additional costs expected?
Entrance fees to monuments are not included and total around 22 euros per person. City taxes in hotels are payable locally.

Is the pace of the tour manageable?
Yes, with a balance of guided activities and free time, the schedule offers a comfortable pace for most travelers.

Would this tour suit first-time visitors to Sicily?
Absolutely, the itinerary covers major highlights, offers insightful guided tours, and includes comfortable accommodations, making it ideal for first-timers seeking a thorough overview of the island.