Sicilian Culinary Expedition
Day 01: Upon reaching Catania airport, your chauffeur awaits to escort you to the enchanting Taormina hotel. Embark on a stroll through the city center with a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the essence of Taormina, uncovering its attractions, lifestyle, and hidden gems for delectable pastries, ice cream, coffee, and unique souvenirs. Encounter the town’s landmarks with captivating stories from your guide. Delight in two culinary stops: first, savor cheeses, salumi, bread, olives, and wine; then, indulge in Sicilian sweets, liquors, and coffee at a charming pastry bar. After the tour, enjoy a free evening in vibrant Taormina. Rest well in the heart of this captivating town.
Day 02: Embark on a gastronomic journey from the heart of the city after your morning meal. Explore Taormina’s vibrant Food Market with a knowledgeable guide/chef. Choose fresh ingredients and uncover the culinary art of crafting Sicilian-style homemade bread, pasta, and delightful seafood and vegetable dishes. Indulge in your creations paired with local wines. Following the tour, savor a leisurely afternoon and evening in picturesque Taormina – whether lounging on beautiful beaches or exploring at your own pace. Rest overnight in the charm of Taormina.
Day 03: Embark on a unique journey to the Mt. Etna Villages post-breakfast, guided by a local food enthusiast. Traverse charming Etna villages, surrounded by lava stone houses and lush orchards. Delight in captivating tales of Sicilian culture, traditions, and cuisine. Ascend to 1000 meters, reveling in panoramic volcanic landscapes. Visit a historic family winery for a cellar tour, savoring volcanic wines and organic Etna appetizers in a mesmerizing lava stone amphitheater. Continue to an authentic farmhouse for a gastronomic feast of seasonal antipasti, homemade pasta, and pastries. Conclude the day in Taormina with free time and an overnight stay.
Day 04: Embark on a delightful journey after breakfast, meeting your chauffeur at 10:00 am in front of your hotel. Explore the enchanting UNESCO heritage town of Noto with a local guide, savoring Modica chocolate and Sicilian ice cream during a leisurely walk. After the tour, head to Marzamemi, a picturesque Sicilian fishing village by the sea, for a delectable seafood lunch at a family trattoria. Later, relax in the evening charm of Syracuse from your charming hotel.
Stay the night in Syracuse, a perfect blend of history and romance.
Day 05: Discover Ortigia, Syracuse’s historic gem, with a local foodie guide as the evening sets in. Savor fresh fish, Sicilian appetizers, homemade pastries, and fragrant wines at three unique venues. Immerse yourself in local culture, history, and gastronomy as you stroll through the town’s monuments and hidden gems. The tour concludes in Ortigia’s heart, allowing you to continue enjoying the town’s nighttime charm. Stay overnight in Syracuse for the full experience.
Day 06: Embark on a post-breakfast adventure chauffeured by your private driver. Explore an ancient winery in the picturesque Syracuse countryside, resembling a castle in its unique structure. The owner will warmly welcome you for a guided tour of the cellars and the historic millstone. Indulge in a delightful lunch featuring local organic products, paired with a wine tasting in the enchanting courtyard. Savor the distinct flavors of Syracuse wines and uncover their unique characteristics compared to Etna wines. Following lunch, enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive to vibrant Palermo, where you can unwind and have a free evening. Rest for the night in Palermo.
Day 07: Discover the essence of Sicilian street cuisine on a 3-hour Palermo walking tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, delve into the vibrant culinary scene of Sicily’s capital. Wander through the lively Vucciria and Mercato del Capo markets, savoring five distinct Sicilian delicacies such as ‘panelle’ (chickpea fritters) and ‘arancini’ (deep-fried rice balls). Traverse the historic streets and key landmarks of Palermo, absorbing captivating stories from your guide. Conclude the tour and relish a leisurely evening in Palermo before an overnight stay.
Day 08: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel before your chauffeur arrives for a seamless transfer to Palermo airport, perfectly timed for your flight departure.