Experience an unforgettable tour of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean. Led by engaging local guides and pampered with luxurious accommodations, each moment on our small group tour unveils new wonders waiting to be discovered. The legacies of Greek, Roman, Arab, French, and Spanish influences intertwine to weave tales from a bygone era.
Our 9-day Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour accommodates only six to twelve travelers for a more intimate travel experience. We begin in Palermo, skipping the crowds to delve into the layers of past civilizations. We take a stroll through the vibrant food market and marvel at the stunning golden mosaics of Monreale’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Next, we visit the picturesque windmills that dot the salt pans in western Sicily and climb the cliff of Erice for breathtaking views. Setting sail from Trapani, we enjoy a day trip to Favignana Island, immersing ourselves in Mediterranean culture and food traditions shaped by history, with a fascinating tour of a former tuna fishing facility.
Near Castelvetrano, we learn how centuries-old olive trees extract nutrients from the rocks shaped by ancient Greeks, producing an exceptional olive oil recognized by Slow Food.
Our small group tours continue to a luxurious 5-star resort in Agrigento’s sun-drenched countryside. We explore the evocative Greek Temples, visit the charming, off-the-beaten-path town of Naro, and indulge in home-cooked lunch in the surrounding wine region.
For the last two nights of the tour, we drive to the southeast corner of Sicily and shake hands with a family-owned pistachio farm on the volcanic slopes of Mt. Etna. From the timeless charm of Ortigia, the historic old town of Siracusa, we explore the well-preserved Greek Theatre and the beautiful town of Noto.
Whether it’s the warm hospitality of Sicilian people opening their homes to us or the stunning views from your room’s balcony, our curated Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour promises to showcase the intense and elemental character that defines this remarkable region.
9 days | 8 nights
2026: From Palermo to Catania
Group size: 6-12 guests
Private Tour of Siracusa’s Greek Theatre
Day trip to Favignana Island
Pistacchio Organic farm on the slopes of Mt. Etna
Visit the golden mosaics of Monreale’s Cathedral
Noto, Erice, Palermo, Valley of Temples, Naro, Ortigia
Fine Dining overlooking the Greek Temples of Agrigento
Visit an Active Salt Pan
Tour of a Historic Olive Oil Producer and Lunch
Lunch & Wine Tasting in two boutique wineries
April 29 — May 7, 2026
5250€ per person in double occupancy
6610€ in single occupancy
September 16 — 24, 2026
5250€ per person in double occupancy
6610€ in single occupancy
What's Included in the Tour Package
2 nights in Palermo (Palazzo Cartari or similar), breakfast and porterage included
2 nights near Trapani (Parco Degli Aromi or similar), breakfast and porterage included
2 nights in Agrigento (Doric Boutique Hotel or similar), breakfast and porterage included
2 nights in Ortigia (Maniace Boutique Hotel or similar), breakfast and porterage included
Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), including airport transfers, permits and parking fees
Tour manager for 9 days
3 traditional dinners and 1 fine dining, all with wine included
Tasting of Sicilian granita in Noto
Local guide (2 hours) and tickets for the Greek Theatre in Siracusa
Tour of a historic Pistacchio farm and light lunch
Local guide (2 hours) and tickets for the Valley of Temples in Agrigento
Lunch in a winery near Agrigento
Tour of an olive oil farm, olive oil tasting, and lunch
Tour of a salt pan
Return tickets for the high-speed boat from Trapani to Favignana
Local guide in Favignana, tickets for Florio’s tuna fishing museum, and panoramic island tour
Culinary demonstration in Favignana, and lunch with wine included
Lunch in a winery in Alcamo
Local guide for a day in Palermo and tickets for Monreale’s cathedral
Food tastings in Palermo
VAT 22%
Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)
Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips
The rate does not include:
Hotel City Tax (between 3 to 5€ per person per night)
Personal travel insurance
Airfare to/from Italy
Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”.
The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).
The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.
CANCELLATION POLICY
There shall be a 250€ non-refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;
From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;
From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price
Read here the full terms and conditions.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.
While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.
Boutique luxury hotel in the vibrant city center of Palermo. Rooms and suites decorated with high-quality finishes reflect the Sicilian allure with unique and precious details.
Modern and sleek accommodations in a conveniently located resort, with breathtaking views overlooking the bay below. Wellness center and infinity swimming pool.
Pampered with modern amenities, fine details, and a sumptuous breakfast, this luxurious resort offers unique views over the temple of Juno and the Mediterranean.
With breathtaking sea views, overlooking the Calarossa beach, an elegant historic residence carefully restored, boasts bright and luxurious rooms with marble floors for an intimate stay.
The trip itinerary was by itself wonderful—the landscape, the hotels, medieval towns, wineries, olive and pistachio farms, museums and churches. At no time did we feel stressed or rushed. Staying at each hotel for 2 or 3 nights helped. The pace suited us to a tee. Clarissa,our tour director, is a treasure—caring, knowledgeable, warm, funny, flexible and now a “family member”. She “got us”. One day I wasn’t well and she adjusted the schedule so that I would not miss seeing the planned sites. She gave us options and steered us to those things she knew we would enjoy-always. This was by far the best trip my husband and I have ever taken. As a result of our overwhelmingly positive experience we are signing up for next year’s Puglia trip. See you then.
Linda P. – May 2025
Great guided tour of western Sicily! Top notch hotels, great restaurants and an itinerary that includes the major cultural and historic sites but also off the beaten path treats. Highly recommended Meet Piemonte’s Western Sicily tour!
Joe D. - April 2025
Traveling with Meet Piemonte has been just amazing. From the moment we met our driver at the airport, all travel worries and stressors were left behind. Marco is incredibly detail oriented, always professional with an added touch of humor, informed and informative. We visited and experienced the hidden gems of Sicily, dined like locals and also like royalty, enjoyed fine wine daily. I cannot imagine traveling in Italy any other way !
Maggie V. - October 2024
Read all reviews on Tripadvisor and on Google
Meals included: dinner
Accommodation: Palermo
Arrive independently at Palermo’s airport and transfer to the hotel, located in the heart of the city center.
Flat-rate taxi rides are available from the airport (white cars only), and private drivers can be arranged for an extra charge.
Check in and relax in a luxurious boutique hotel, a perfect oasis of peace to escape Palermo’s bustling streets.
Tonight, meet your fellow travelers and your tour manager for a brief orientation talk, followed by our first group dinner at a renowned osteria in Palermo, where we’ll toast to our Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour.
Meals included: breakfast and food tasting
Accommodation: Palermo
Embark on an unforgettable tour of Sicily, starting in the vibrant city of Palermo. This city is an extraordinary tapestry of history and art, shaped by centuries of diverse conquerors and influences.
As we explore on foot, we will visit the breathtaking Martorana Church and experience the lively atmosphere of the Capo food market, renowned for its culinary delights. At the bustling Quattro Canti intersection, be captivated by the stunning fusion of Arab, Norman, and Byzantine architecture, alongside the majestic Neo-Classical Opera House that stands as a testament to Palermo’s rich heritage.
Our engaging local guide will lead you through hidden streets and cherished local spots, enhancing your experience with stops to savor Palermo’s famous street food, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive to the enchanting town of Monreale. Here, you will witness the remarkable cathedral, commissioned by Norman King William II in 1172, a true marvel of architectural beauty.
Allow our local guide to guide you through the awe-inspiring golden mosaics that embellish the interior, recognized as some of the most extensive and exquisite in the Mediterranean.
Upon returning to Palermo, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure, with dinner on your own, providing the perfect opportunity to savor the local dining scene. Don’t miss this chance to discover the heart and soul of Sicily!
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Trapani ‘s countryside
After checking out, we embark on an enchanting drive west to Alcamo’s renowned wine region. Here, a beautifully restored fortified farmhouse invites us to explore its cellar and production facility, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Immerse yourself in a tasting of indigenous grape varietals, such as the Catarratto, which forms the backbone of the esteemed Alcamo DOC wine. Our lunch, perfectly paired with homemade dishes, transforms into a delightful and educational journey through the rich flavors of Western Sicily that you won’t want to miss.
As our Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour unfolds, we make our way to the stunning shores of the Stagnone lagoon. Our knowledgeable local guide captivates us with tales and intriguing facts about the ancient art of salt production, all against a backdrop of sun-soaked coastlines and strong winds.
In the late afternoon, we check into a boutique resort that boasts spectacular views of the Western Sicilian coastline, featuring the Aegadian Islands, the bay of San Vito Lo Capo, and majestic Mt. Erice as our backdrop. Unwind by the pool or wander through the serene gardens of this charming escape in the province of Trapani.
This evening, a brief 15-minute drive will transport us to Erice, a captivating medieval village perched high atop a mountain. Indulge in a traditional dinner at a carefully selected restaurant, savoring flavors that are sure to create lasting memories.
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Trapani ‘s countryside
Embark on a short drive to the port of Trapani, where a high-speed ferry whisks you away to the enchanting island of Favignana in just 30 minutes. Favignana, the largest of the Aegadian islands, beckons with its laid-back charm and vivid colors, truly a hidden gem on our Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour.
As you step onto the dock, our knowledgeable local expert greets you and guides you to a delightful coffee break in the lively main piazza. Immerse yourself in history as we stroll to the former Florio tuna fishing facility, now a captivating museum that served as the economic backbone of Favignana for over a century. Explore the fascinating tools and industrial architecture of the tonnara (tuna fishing facility), which tells the story of rich traditions, ancient myths, and ingenious fishing techniques that have played a vital role in sustaining tuna populations in our oceans.
Next, hop into local taxis and ascend to a breathtaking viewpoint, where you can soak in stunning vistas, dip your feet in the refreshing Mediterranean Sea, and discover the island’s unspoiled natural beauty, located closer to Africa than to mainland Italy. Meet an experienced chef for an engaging lesson in the ancient art of making couscous, and indulge your taste buds with delicious, freshly prepared dishes.
As the afternoon unfolds, we set sail back to Trapani on our high-speed boat, with the option to explore the elegant shopping streets of the city center alongside your tour manager. Cap off your day by savoring an early dinner at one of the local eateries (on your own) before we return to our hotel.
*Please note that in case of rough sea conditions, we prioritize safety and may arrange for a larger ferry. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the Favignana excursion will be substituted with another enriching land-based activity. No refunds will be given in either scenario.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Agrigento
After checking out this morning, we explore the countryside of Castelvetrano, one of Sicily’s premier regions for olive cultivation. Here, among century-old olive trees rooted in mineral-rich soil from ancient Greek times, you’ll discover a world of extraordinary flavors as we sample award-winning olive oil that sets itself apart with its exceptional qualities.
Immerse yourself in the experience as we stroll through these impressive olive groves, engaging in a technical and informative tasting of three exquisite types of olives recognized by Slow Food as worthy of protection. This tasting will not only deepen your appreciation for extra-virgin olive oil but also prepare you for a delightful lunch at the rustic farm restaurant, where you’ll savor fresh vegetables, Castelvetrano sourdough bread, and traditional recipes crafted with love.
As we traverse the picturesque plains and rolling hills adorned with vibrant orange groves, we’ll arrive in the sun-soaked countryside of Agrigento. Here, you’ll check into a luxurious 5-star resort, perfectly positioned with breathtaking views of the Valley of the Temples and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.
Arriving after lunch allows our guests to unwind in style, whether by your private patio pool or at the larger central pool by the bar. Finally, prepare to be amazed at dinner as the resident chef dazzles us with a creative menu featuring local ingredients and traditional recipes, all reimagined with a modern twist and served with fine dining finesse. This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Meals included: breakfast, pastry tasting
Accommodation: Agrigento
Part of the experience on our Sicily tour, is waking up in the morning surrounded by the fragrances of aromatic herbs, flowers, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Enjoy breakfast in the sunny and tranquil countryside of Agrigento, at one of the few hotels in the area where you won’t hear any traffic.
A short 5-minute bus transfer will take us to the entrance of one of Italy’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Valley of the Temples. This site features some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world, dating back to the 6th century B.C. Our informative and friendly local expert will guide us on a journey back in time, with the tour lasting approximately two hours.
Next, we will explore the countryside of Agrigento, known for its local DOC wine appellation. We will visit the President of the consortium in his private home—a restored “Baglio,” or farmhouse, perched on a hill overlooking the vineyards. Lunch will be served on the outdoor terrace (in case of inclement weather, we will dine in the indoor dining room) and will feature a tasting of Sicily’s indigenous grape varieties, Grillo and Nero d’Avola, along with international grapes such as Syrah and Chardonnay.
Our small group tour will then take us to Naro, a hidden gem in our Western Sicily and Syracuse adventure. This Baroque and medieval town is less popular than Noto but deserves a visit for its elegant architecture, including churches and aristocratic palaces. We will take a leisurely walk to experience this typical Sicilian town, where few tourists visit, allowing us to see local life in its authentic form.
For tonight’s dinner, you have the option to drive to the nearby beach town of San Leone to try one of the casual pizzerias or seafood restaurants. Alternatively, you may choose to stay for a romantic à la carte dinner at the hotel’s refined restaurant.
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Siracusa
After another great breakfast at our luxurious resort, we will check out of Agrigento and drive toward the enchanting eastern coast of Sicily.
As we traverse the stunning landscapes of the mainland, we prepare for captivating stories, intriguing facts, and ample photo opportunities. Marvel at the hilltop towns, golden wheat fields, and secluded valleys, including the breathtaking city of Enna, dramatically perched on a cliff, alongside the historical region of former sulfur mines.
Our adventure takes us to the lower slopes of Mt. Etna, near Bronte, where a remarkable microclimate created by the sea’s proximity and fertile volcanic soil fosters the cultivation of the world’s finest pistachios.
Here, you’ll meet Andrea, the passionate owner of a historic farm, where the time-honored art of grafting crooked pistachio trees and harvesting these exquisite nuts has been passed down through generations. As you relax in the farm’s charming courtyard, savor a delightful light lunch featuring an array of savory and sweet specialties crafted from these delectable pistachios, celebrated for their exceptional taste.
After relishing our lunch, we continue to the southeastern tip of Sicily, where the captivating city of Siracusa awaits. A private porterage service will seamlessly transport our luggage from the mainland to the picturesque island of Ortigia, linked to the rest of the city by charming bridges.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into luxurious accommodations, just steps away from the vibrant fish market and Cathedral Square—one of Italy’s most elegant piazzas, renowned for hosting movies, fashion shows, and memorable events.
Take advantage of our tour manager’s expertise as they guide you on an engaging orientation walk to the enchanting Arethusa Spring, while also offering personalized dinner recommendations for an unforgettable evening. Embrace this exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in Sicily’s beauty and culture!
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Siracusa
This morning, we embrace the serenity of Siracusa as we arrive at the Greek Theatre right after opening hours, avoiding the heat and crowds. Led by our knowledgeable local guide, we’ll be transported back to the fifth century BC, where the legendary works of Aeschylus and Sophocles came to life on this historic stage.
Our journey continues with a visit to the Ear of Dionysius, an impressive man-made limestone cave shaped like a tall, narrow ear, formed through ancient quarrying. The acoustics here are nothing short of extraordinary, allowing you to experience sound in a way that will leave you in awe.
After this fascinating experience, we’ll unwind on our comfortable vans, and explore Noto, the crown jewel of Sicilian Baroque architecture. You’ll have the freedom to take a stroll at your leisure along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a stunning street lined with artisanal shops, fashionable boutiques, and charming cafés.
For lunch, savor the delicious taste of stuffed focaccia, fresh salads, and indulge in the finest almond ice slush or freshly stuffed cannoli. Be sure to capture a photo of the magnificent Noto Cathedral, with its grand staircase and intricate façade, before we head back to Siracusa for a delightful afternoon of relaxation.
Tonight, we’ll commemorate the end of our unforgettable Sicilian adventure with a truly special meal at a renowned Osteria in Ortigia. Don’t miss this opportunity to taste the culinary delights that Sicily has to offer!
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: n/a
Enjoy one more breakfast before checking out. A group transfer to Catania’s airport is included.
Until we meet again!
Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.
Suggested arrival airport: Rome (FCO).
Suggested departure airport: Florence (FLR) or Rome (FCO)
Day 1: meet in central Rome at 2 pm. Specific directions will be provided. Please contact us if you’d like to add a private transfer to your tour package or a pre-tour hotel room.
Departure day: no airport transfer is included from the city center of Florence. If you fly out of Florence, consider that the airport is located within a 15-20 minute taxi ride from the city center (about 25€ per car). If you fly out of Rome, we recommend booking your flights not before 1 pm or the following day. Convenient high-speed trains frequently connect Florence to Rome (the ride takes approximately 1h30′). Please contact us if you’d like to add a private transfer or a post-tour hotel room.
In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:
Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibusses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.
For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.
MOBILITY AND HEALTH
To enjoy our Western Sicily & Siracusa Tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill. One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.
While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.
WHEELCHAIRS
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.
HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING
Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.
GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.
Meet Piemonte (legal name Meet Voyager SRL), is a fully-licensed Italian Tour Operator enrolled in the Chamber of Commerce of Asti (REA: 131678), in Piedmont, northwest Italy.
We craft small-group tours with only 6 to 12 travelers and focus on selected regions, including:
Tuscany | Lake Como, Piedmont & Portofino | Sicily | Naples, Positano & The Amalfi Coast | Puglia & Matera | Sardinia | Food & Wine Tour in Piedmont
Learn more about our Small Group Tours To Italy
Learn more about Meet Piemonte’s team
Email: [email protected]
Office hours: Mon – Fri 9am-5pm