Private 8-Days Tour of Sicily – Discover Unesco Treasures of the Island

Our review of this private 8-day Sicily tour highlights an adventure filled with history, scenic beauty, and authentic flavors. Designed by Prestelli Sicily Tours, this journey promises personalized experiences, expert guides, and seamless logistics, making it perfect for those seeking an immersive taste of Sicily away from the crowds. From exploring ancient Greek ruins to savoring local wines, this trip combines cultural richness with comfort.

What we particularly like about this tour is its attention to detail and the way it balances sightseeing with genuine Sicilian experiences. The use of centrally located 4-star hotels ensures comfort, while private transportation makes traveling between sites effortless. One thing to keep in mind: the price of about $3,464 per person might seem steep, but considering the private guides, exclusive visits, and included meals, many travelers will find it offers good value for the depth of experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, good food, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or just someone wanting a curated adventure in Sicily, this itinerary caters well to those who prefer a personalized, fuss-free experience. Now, let’s unpack what makes this trip a standout and what you can expect along the way.

• Personalized Experience: Private guides and transportation ensure a tailored journey.
• Cultural Riches: Visit UNESCO sites, ancient ruins, and authentic villages.
• Gourmet Focus: Enjoy Sicilian cuisine, wine tastings, and local products.
• Comfort & Convenience: 4-star hotels and door-to-door transfers simplify logistics.
• Authentic Encounters: Discover real Sicilian life in small towns and villages.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Balances sightseeing with leisure and culinary treats.

Day 1: Welcome to Taormina

Starting your Sicilian adventure in Taormina, the tour begins with a private transfer from Catania airport. The driver, who is attentive to your flight details, whisks you into this charming hilltop town. After settling into a centrally located hotel, you’ll enjoy a private walking tour of Taormina’s historic streets.

Your guide will take you down “Corso Umberto,” browsing boutique shops, and exploring picturesque alleyways filled with the scent of flowers. You’ll see iconic sights and learn about the town’s history, providing a gentle introduction to Sicilian life. The evening ends with a dinner featuring organic local dishes and wine, offering a perfect first taste of regional flavors.

Reviewers praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—one even mentions the “informative and friendly” guides as a highlight. The relaxed pacing of Day 1 means you’re not rushed, and you get a real feel for Taormina’s charm.

Day 2: Mount Etna’s Mystique

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. Your private guide, a bilingual expert, takes you to Zafferana Etnea—a delightful village famous for its honey and regional products. You’ll sample local honey, olive oils, wines, and liqueurs, setting a flavorful tone for the day.

Next, you ascend Mount Etna, stopping at the Cyclops Cave and the Rifugio Sapienza station at 1,900 meters. Expect to walk around the Silvestri Craters, marveling at the volcanic landscape that’s both dramatic and otherworldly. The experience is enhanced by the guide’s insights into Etna’s geology and history.

Post-visit, you’ll tour one of the best wineries on the volcano’s slope, where a private cellar tour and wine tasting are included. A private sommelier explains the nuances of Etna wines, which are increasingly admired worldwide. Reviewers repeatedly mention the quality of the wine experiences, noting the “fantastic” wine tastings and the guide’s thorough explanations.

Day 3: The Godfather’s Sicily

Today takes you to the picturesque towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agro, both heavily linked to the iconic film “The Godfather.” In Savoca, you’ll visit the Bar Vitelli, which looks exactly as it did in the movie, and the church of Santa Lucia, where Michael and Apollonia wed.

In Forza d’Agro, you’ll wander its abandoned streets and panoramic viewpoints, learning how the town’s scenery played a starring role in the film. The guide highlights the town’s untouched charm, and reviewers appreciate the intimate, less touristy atmosphere that allows for authentic exploration. You’ll see the house where Vito Corleone was born and walk the streets that inspired some of the film’s most iconic scenes.

Lunch in a traditional trattoria offers Sicilian flavors and a chance to soak in the local vibe. This day beautifully blends cinema history with real Sicilian life, with guides like Marco and Jessica praised for their knowledge and patience.

Day 4: Syracuse and Ortigia

Traveling south, the tour arrives in Syracuse, a city brimming with history. After checking into your hotel, you’ll enjoy a private walking tour of Ortigia, the island’s ancient core. Expect to see the Greek Apollo Temple, Cathedral Square, and the Norman-style St. Lucy Church.

A visit to the Neapolis Archaeological Park follows, where spectacular Greek and Roman ruins await, including a large theater and an impressive limestone quarry. The mix of ancient sites and vibrant street life makes Syracuse a highlight.

Reviewers mention that the guides’ local expertise brings these historical treasures to life, making the experience not just about sightseeing but about understanding Sicily’s layered past.

Day 5: The Baroque Towns of Val di Noto

Next, the tour explores Noto, a UNESCO-listed jewel of Baroque architecture. Walking through its elegant streets, you’ll see ornate palaces and churches, all bursting with intricate details. Guides explain the tragic history behind some buildings, adding depth to your visit.

Lunch in Noto provides a taste of Sicilian culinary traditions, often described as flavorful and hearty. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and well-preserved architecture make it a must-see.

Day 6: Ragusa Ibla and Modica

Your journey continues to Ragusa Ibla, a UNESCO site famous for its baroque buildings. Guides show you the Duomo di San Giorgio and local artisan workshops, including a unique Sicilian carts workshop, where craftsmen paint and build traditional carts, a specialty that reviewers find fascinating.

Later, you’ll visit Modica, renowned for its chocolate. Here, a visit to the Chocolate Museum includes a demonstration of traditional production methods and tastings. The town’s grand Baroque churches and bustling streets provide a lively contrast to the quieter Ragusa Ibla.

Reviewers commend the local guides’ friendliness and the authentic feel of these towns, emphasizing how they offer a window into genuine Sicilian life.

Day 7: Palermo—The Capital

Your final stop is Palermo, Sicily’s vibrant capital. An expert guide takes you through key sights like the Cathedral, Teatro Massimo, and the Ballarò market. Tasting a traditional arancino and cannolo adds a delicious local touch.

Palermo’s contrasts—its history, markets, and lively streets—are well captured during this comprehensive tour. Reviewers describe the guides as knowledgeable and personable, making the city’s complex history accessible and engaging.

Day 8: Departure

The trip concludes with a private transfer to Palermo airport, making your departure straightforward and stress-free.

This Sicily tour excels in combining personalized guiding with well-chosen destinations, each packed with significance. The private guides are a common theme in reviews, and their deep knowledge enhances every site, from Mount Etna to the small towns. The inclusion of wine tastings and food experiences also elevates the trip from a typical sightseeing tour to an authentic culinary journey.

The logistics are seamless, thanks to door-to-door transfers and centrally located hotels. This setup minimizes stress and maximizes time enjoying the sights and flavors. The eight-day length strikes a good balance, allowing travelers to see a broad swath of Sicily without feeling rushed.

Price and Value

At $3,464.25 per person, this tour might seem a significant investment. However, considering the all-inclusive elements—private transportation, expert guides, select meals, wine tastings, and entry to UNESCO sites—the value becomes clearer. Many reviews mention that guides are highly knowledgeable and friendly, transforming what could be a hectic itinerary into an engaging, comfortable experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who prefer a curated, hassle-free experience with plenty of local insights. It suits those interested in history, culture, and gastronomy, especially if they enjoy private arrangements and personalized attention. The pace is comfortable, making it good for seasoned travelers, couples, or small groups who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Sicily.

This 8-day private tour offers a chance to see Sicily’s most treasured sights with expert guides, authentic experiences, and comfort. It balances history, scenery, and culinary delights, providing a well-rounded adventure that’s perfect for those who want more than just a snapshot of this beautiful island.

While the price might seem high, the level of customization, quality of guides, and inclusion of memorable experiences like wine tastings and visits to UNESCO sites make it worthwhile. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone craving a genuine Sicilian journey, this tour delivers on all fronts.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, private experience that covers Sicily’s highlights with authentic charm and expert guidance, this trip is a smart choice. It’s best for travelers who appreciate comfort, cultural depth, and a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. Families, couples, or small groups seeking a curated adventure will find this tour ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable Sicilian escape.

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Sicily?
Yes. The itinerary covers key sights and provides insightful guides, making it perfect for those new to the island.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes. The tour includes certain meals, such as dinners and lunches, with some featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine and wine tastings.

What transportation is used during the tour?
Travel is via comfortable, air-conditioned minivans or cars, with private transfers from the airport to hotels and between sites.

Can the tour be customized?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your interests with the guides for possible adjustments, but the core itinerary is fixed.

What is the accommodation like?
Guests stay in centrally located 4-star hotels, balancing comfort and location for easy access to attractions.

Are entrance fees to sites included?
Not all are included; some museums and archaeological sites require separate tickets. However, many key sites like the Valley of the Temples are part of the itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking at several sites, the itinerary’s pace and private guides can make it accessible for most travelers, but it’s best to check specific mobility needs beforehand.

This tour offers an immersive, comfortable, and well-organized Sicilian journey, ideal for those eager to discover the island’s best UNESCO treasures alongside authentic culinary and cultural experiences.