Starts in Catania, ends in Malta

Magical experience: A tour through Italy and Malta

11 days

Sicily, the queen of the Mediterranean islands, carries history on her shoulders like a precious burden. Its landscapes are a poem of rugged mountains rising majestically against the sky and rolling plains where olive groves and vineyards shimmer in the scorching sun. Malta, the pearl of the Mediterranean, radiates a radiant light that illuminates the golden sandstone walls of its fortified cities. Between the venerable fortresses and baroque churches, Malta breathes history, captured in every stone and paving.

What you'll see

Itinerary & map

Your arrival in Catania or the picturesque, enchanting coastal village of Acitrezza will be accompanied by a touch of the special (optional private transfer on request). The hotel welcomes you in its atmosphere, be it in Catania itself or in Acitrezza, where the famous Faraglioni grace the backdrop. The evening is free for you to choose your own dinner before spending the night at the hotel.

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you set off for Syracuse, the most beautiful and largest Greek colony in Sicily, which is also a World Heritage Site! The exploration begins in the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where the Greek Theater, Roman Amphitheater, Latomy of Paradise and Ear of Dionysius offer impressive insights into ancient history. The journey then continues to Ortigia, a charming small island that forms the historic center of Syracuse. Here you can admire the majestic cathedral, whose baroque facade hides the history of a former Doric temple. A visit to Piazza Duomo also offers a breathtaking view of the famous Arethusa Fountain, one of the most prominent freshwater springs in the Greek world. You can spend lunchtime as you wish. After exploring Syracuse, continue your journey to Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Noto impresses with magnificent buildings from the early 18th century, which are given a special radiance by the golden rays of sunshine in the local limestone. The baroque charm of Noto unfolds in elegant curves, floral patterns, perspective views, magnificent facades of churches and monasteries and lush gardens. During your visit, admire the Palazzo Nicolaci Villadorata, an impressive baroque-style aristocratic residence. Afterwards, enjoy free time for a relaxing walk through the city. The day ends with a drive to Ragusa, where a delicious dinner awaits you at the hotel. End the evening with a relaxing overnight stay.

Today you will explore the historic center of Ragusa Ibla, the cradle of the Sicilian Baroque and filming location of the popular television series Police Inspector Montalbano. This gem is one of Italy's 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is home to more than 50 churches and numerous Baroque architectural treasures. A visit to the fascinating cathedral on Duomo Square and the "Giardino Ibleo", the oldest of Ragusa's four main gardens, at 383 meters above sea level, promises spectacular views and unforgettable impressions. The journey then takes you to Modica, another UNESCO World Heritage site with numerous Baroque masterpieces. During a stroll through the charming streets you will visit Sabadì, a renowned chocolate manufacturer. Here you will enjoy a multi-sensory chocolate tasting with authentic Sicilian flavors including wild mint, orange blossom honey, raw Sicilian lemon and Sicilian red orange. Your culinary experience continues with lunch in the shadow of the impressive Orti di San Giorgio, seven gardens that hover between light and beauty and offer a breathtaking panorama. The journey continues to Piazza Armerina to visit the famous Villa Romana del Casale, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that impresses with magnificent polychrome mosaics. The mosaics tell of mythological and historical episodes as well as hunting and entertainment scenes. Finally, you will drive to Agrigento, where a delicious dinner awaits you at the hotel and you will spend the night.

Today you continue your journey and visit the famous Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dubbed "the most beautiful city of mortals," this ancient Greek city showcases impressive Doric temples dating back to the 5th century BC. Between hundreds of almond trees, admire the remains of ancient Akragas, including the "Temple of Hera", the "Temple of Concordia" and the "Temple of Heracles". The journey then takes you to the charming city of Marsala, known for Garibaldi's landing in May 1860. Marsala impresses with vibrant colors between sea and land. After a stroll through the city center, visit the Florio cellars, where you will stand in front of the majestic 19th century barrels. A tour of the impressive barrel chambers gives you an insight into wine production, followed by a wine tasting and a delicious lunch. The tour then takes you along the Salt Road between Trapani and Marsala, one of the oldest salt production industries in the world. This area is now protected and offers interesting insights into bird life and industrial archaeology. Finally, you will be transferred to Palermo, where you will check in at the hotel. The evening is at your leisure and you can arrange your dinner as you wish.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will experience the impressive city of Monreale in the morning. The Norman cathedral, considered the eighth wonder of the world, awaits you with its imposing size and magnificent cloisters in the Arab-Norman style. The cloister impresses as a masterpiece of art, sculpture and inlay work made of semi-precious stones. Later, explore fascinating Palermo, a city rich in history and art. The Bay of Palermo is dominated by Monte Pellegrino, which Goethe described as the most beautiful headland he had ever seen. Despite the predominance of the Baroque, the city displays a variety of architectural styles that reflect its multicultural past. From Punic walls to Art Nouveau villas to noble residences and 17th-century squares, Palermo is a fascinating mosaic of diverse cultures. Visit the eclectic Cathedral, the impressive Martorana Church and the astonishing Cappella Palatina - all admirable examples of historical and artistic diversity. Enjoy a typical lunch of local food, admiring the famous Teatro Massimo and the controversial fountain in Pretoria Square in the old Kalsa district along the way. The day ends with dinner on your own and an overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, transfer to Cefalù, a charming medieval town on the north coast of Sicily. Here you will visit the impressive Norman cathedral and have plenty of time to stroll through the charming streets or explore the famous Mandralisca Museum. You'll stop at a renowned restaurant to enjoy a delicious lunch. After arriving in Catania, a visit to the historic center is on the program. This has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and impresses with its original baroque style and unique streets made of black lava rock. The buildings in the city center are decorated in black and dark gray, with white limestone details on doors and windows adding an elegant touch. The tour begins in the picturesque Cathedral Square with its magnificent cathedral and the famous "Liotru" statue, an ancient elephant made of lava rock, the city's symbol. The University Square and the magnificent baroque Via dei Crociferi, the most representative street in Catania from the 18th century, invite further discoveries. Here you can admire the famous S. Benedict Monastery, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A break in a historic bar in the city center offers the opportunity to taste the typical "granita & brioche". The day ends with an individual dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

After a quick visit to the famous "pescheria" (old fish market) in Catania, this morning you will continue your journey with a trip to Etna, the highest volcano in Europe and one of the largest and most active in the world, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Etna Regional Park protects 59,000 hectares of unique geology, flora and fauna, villages, farms and traditional methods of forestry, beekeeping, winemaking, stoneworking and carpentry. On the way to Rifugio Sapienza you will be amazed by the breathtaking landscapes. The "Crateri Silvestri", small, now inactive volcanic cones surrounded by ancient lava flows, offer an impressive sight. From here the view extends over the mountain's hundreds of side cones and craters, reaching across Sicily, the Aeolian Islands and Calabria. The spectacle is unique! You will be offered an opportunity to taste the homemade honey and some typical local products. Afterwards enjoy your lunch in a nice restaurant. The tour continues to Taormina, a charming town known for its magnificent location over the sea and famous views of Mount Etna. Here you will visit the fascinating Greek Theater of Taormina, which impresses with its breathtaking views of the bay of Giardini Naxos and Mount Etna. Free time is available to stroll through the picturesque medieval streets, shop and explore the local handicrafts (coral jewelry, precious lace, ceramics, pastries and more). The day ends with an overview of the beautiful Riviera dei Ciclopi. Back in Catania you have the opportunity to have dinner on your own and spend the night at the hotel.

After breakfast, you will have free time to explore Catania city center on your own. Depending on your flight schedule, there will then be a private transfer to the airport and a direct flight to Malta. The tour now continues without the tour guide. Upon arrival in Malta, a private transfer to the hotel awaits you. The evening is at your leisure for an individual dinner and overnight stay.

Today, continue your exploration of this magical island with a full-day excursion accompanied by a private driver and guide. Your first stop will take you to Cottonera, also known as "The Three Cities", consisting of the fortified towns of Senglea, Vittoriosa and Cospicua. Afterwards, explore the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, whose harbor is decorated with traditional colorful fishing boats, the "Luzzi". You will have free time to stroll through the alleys of the city center and explore the stalls of the famous local market. The excursion continues to the town of Wied iz-Zurrieq, from where you take a boat trip to the famous Blue Grotto. This beautiful natural cave reflects the fluorescent colors of the underwater flora. Your exploration of the Maltese countryside continues in a private vehicle that will take you to Dingli. After an eventful day, return to your hotel and spend the night there. Alternatively: Comino - Blue Lagoon - Gozo - Caves of Malta Excursion by boat/motor ship (hotel in Malta) After breakfast, a private driver will pick you up and accompany you for another exciting day of excursions in the Maltese archipelago. In Bugibba, board a comfortable boat for a mini cruise. The journey takes you along the northern coast of Malta to Comino Island, where you stop at the famous Blue Lagoon for about an hour. Here you have time to take photos, sunbathe and swim in the turquoise water. Alternatively, you can relax in the boat's well-equipped bar. You will then continue the journey to Gozo, where you will explore the most beautiful places on the island on a tour lasting approximately 3 hours, including Ta 'Pinu, Dwejra, the capital Victoria with its historic market square and the Citadelle St. Georges. After the tour, return on board to walk around Comino and visit the famous caves. Return to Bugibba in the late afternoon and a transfer will take you to your hotel where you will stay overnight.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting off with our guide on a half-day excursion to the hidden gems of Valletta, Malta's charming capital. Your first stop will take you to Casa Rocca Piccola, an impressive sixteenth-century palace once owned by the Maltese nobility and now the private estate of the Marquis De Piro. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the fascinating St. John's Co-Cathedral, where you can admire Caravaggio's impressive masterpiece, The Beheading of John the Baptist. The Barrakka Gardens offer scenic views of Valletta Harbor before continuing to the Grand Master's Palace, now the seat of the Maltese Parliament. Your journey continues with a visit to Mdina, the former capital of Malta. There, you'll visit the majestic St. Paul's Cathedral and have time to stroll through the city's picturesque streets while taking in breathtaking views from a viewpoint. After this fascinating exploration, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The afternoon is at your leisure. Enjoy the hotel's amenities or discover more of Malta's treasures on your own. Overnight at your hotel.

End your stay with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, complete your check-out formalities and with this we conclude our services. Please note that changes to the itinerary may be made for organizational reasons or force majeure. We thank you for your understanding and hope that you take away unforgettable memories from your trip.

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