The Best Of Sicily and Sorrento & Culinary Experiences, Deluxe

Experience the Best of Sicily and Sorrento with this Deluxe Tour

This 13-day journey offers a well-rounded taste of Sicily’s vibrant culture, ancient ruins, and scenic beauty, combined with the charm of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Guided by knowledgeable locals and small-group intimacy, it’s designed for travelers eager to enjoy authentic sights, flavors, and history without the fuss of large tour buses.

What stands out most? The variety—visiting bustling Palermo, exploring Greek temples in Agrigento, savoring Sicilian wines, and discovering boutique villages like Erice and Caltagirone. Plus, the seamless mix of guided tours, relaxed free time, and culinary experiences makes this trip both enriching and enjoyable.

A key consideration? With a price tag of $5,399 per person, this tour leans toward travelers seeking a comprehensive, luxury experience. It’s ideal if you love engaging guides, scenic vistas, and culture but might feel a little rushed for those craving maximum free exploration.

Ultimately, this tour suits those who appreciate a structured itinerary packed with highlights, paired with the comfort of boutique hotels and local cuisine. If you’re after a blend of history, landscapes, and authentic flavors in Italy’s most captivating regions, this could be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• In-depth cultural and historical insights from local guides enhance every stop.
• Beautiful scenery, from Mount Etna to the Amalfi Coast, provides memorable photo opportunities.
• Gastronomic delights including regional wines, Sicilian dishes, and cooking classes.
• Small-group size fosters a more personal and flexible experience.
• Luxury accommodations in prime locations elevate the overall trip feel.
• Seamless transportation with luxury coaches and ferries make logistics effortless.

A Comprehensive Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting in Cefalù and Palermo

The tour kicks off in Cefalù, a charming Sicilian town with a laid-back beach vibe. After check-in, you’re welcomed with regional appetizers, wine, and a dinner that highlights local flavors. This sets a warm tone for the trip, and the hotel’s relaxing pool and proximity to the beach make it easy to unwind after traveling.

The next day, the focus shifts to Palermo, Sicily’s bustling capital. Here, you’ll explore sites like Monreale Cathedral, renowned for its stunning gold mosaics in Norman architectural style. Your guide will reveal hidden gems, giving you a deeper appreciation for Palermo’s layered history beyond the typical tourist spots. The reviews mention guides like Riccardo, who’s “friendly and knowledgeable,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

The Northern Coast and Wine Country

On Day 3, you’ll travel along Sicily’s northern coast to Trapani and Marsala, with a highlight being Erice, a mountaintop town famous for its breathtaking views and medieval streets. The stop in Marsala for a winery tour and wine tasting is a real treat, especially if you fancy trying the region’s famous Marsala wine. Travelers consistently appreciate the wine tastings paired with regional dinner, noting that the wines are “outrageous” and the food “delicious,” often served with plenty of regional wines.

A visit to Segesta on Day 4 introduces you to one of Sicily’s best-preserved Greek temples—an impressive reminder of the island’s ancient past. The included wine cellar tour and hands-on cooking class, where you prepare and enjoy regional dishes, are favorites. Reviewers loved this part, with one mentioning they enjoyed “dinner featuring foods they cooked themselves.”

Archaeological Treasures and Coastal Charm

Midweek, your journey takes you to Agrigento to explore the Valley of the Temples—a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient Greek ruins are vast and evocative, with your local guide highlighting the significance of each temple. The fact that this is one of Sicily’s most famous archaeological sites makes it a must-see.

Next, the tour ventures east to Caltagirone, renowned for its ceramics and Baroque architecture. Visiting the private home of the Nobel family Pace Gravina gives a rare glimpse into Sicilian nobility, and the buffet lunch in the palace’s ballroom is a unique experience, according to reviewers.

The Charm of Taormina and Mount Etna

After Caltagirone, you arrive in Taormina, one of Sicily’s most picturesque seaside towns. The funicular ride up to the town offers spectacular views, and the Greek-Roman Amphitheater provides another photo-worthy highlight. The town’s narrow streets, filled with shops and cafes, are perfect for exploring at your leisure.

One of the trip’s highlights is the visit to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano. The vistas from above are breathtaking, and the experience of seeing such a powerful natural marvel up close is unforgettable. The visit to a local rosticceria on Zafferana for arancini and cannoli, as mentioned in reviews, is a delightful culinary adventure.

Relaxing in Taormina and Optional Excursions

The free afternoon back in Taormina allows travelers to relax on the beach or shop local boutiques. The final dinner with a renowned Sicilian chef, Cristian Foti, is a lively event with wine, music, and singing—perfect for wrapping up your Sicilian experience.

For those interested, an optional trip to Syracuse is available, famous for its multicultural history, though it’s not included in the core itinerary. This flexibility is a bonus for travelers who like to customize their experience.

Transition to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Day 10 sees your departure from Sicily, with a ferry crossing at the Strait of Messina—adding a touch of maritime adventure. Stops in Calabria for lunch and finally arriving in Sorrento set the stage for the second half of your trip. Your hotel, overlooking the Gulf of Naples, provides a luxurious base for exploring the region’s highlights.

The Iconic Island of Capri and Positano

Boat trips to Capri and Positano are among the trip’s most memorable moments. Walking through Capri’s narrow streets, exploring the famous Blue Grotto, and enjoying the spectacular views from the island’s high vantage points make these experiences truly special.

In Positano, you’ll find yourself snapping photos of colorful cliffside houses and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The evening in Sorrento features a farewell dinner, with music and a lively ambiance that captures the spirit of southern Italy.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

This tour uses luxury coaches, ferries, and funiculars, ensuring comfortable travel between destinations. The small-group format (max 28 travelers) fosters a more intimate, engaging atmosphere—many reviews emphasize the friendly guides and personalized service.

While the price of $5,399 might seem steep, it reflects the all-inclusive nature—luxury hotels, guided tours, wine tastings, cooking classes, and many meals. Reviewers consistently mention the value, especially highlighting the knowledgeable guides like Riccardo and Enzo, and the quality of the accommodations, such as Villa Giovanna in Sorrento.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and culinary delights. It’s perfect for those who appreciate expert guides, beautiful scenery, and authentic experiences like wine tasting and cooking classes. If you prefer flexible, free-form travel, it might feel a little constrained, but for those who like a well-organized adventure, this trip hits every mark.

FAQs

How many days does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 13 days, covering Sicily and Sorrento with multiple stops along the way.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes guided excursions, hotel accommodations, most meals, wine tastings, and transportation between destinations.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 28 travelers, the small-group setting fosters intimacy and personalized attention.

Are meals included?
Most dinners are included, with specific experiences like local wine tastings and cooking classes highlighted. Some dinners are at the hotel or restaurants, giving a taste of regional cuisine.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Palermo’s Norman architecture, Greek temples in Agrigento, Mount Etna, the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Positano, plus authentic culinary experiences.

Can I customize the trip?
Optional excursions like a trip to Syracuse are available, but the core itinerary is fixed.

How is the transportation arranged?
Luxury coaches, ferries, and funiculars are used to move comfortably between sites, ensuring minimal stress.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, with boutique hotels like Villa Giovanna in Sorrento and seaside resorts in Taormina offering a relaxing and authentic stay.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues may want to check specific sites like Mount Etna or Greek theaters.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund; less notice may reduce your refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience combining history, scenery, and authentic Sicilian flavors, all with the comfort of boutique accommodations and expert guidance. It’s perfect for travelers craving a comprehensive, immersive journey through some of Italy’s most beautiful regions. If you love learning about local culture, savoring regional wines, and enjoying breathtaking vistas, this trip promises memories to cherish—and a good dose of Italian charm.