The Secrets of Sicily French Guided
Overview
Discover the many faces of Sicily on this captivating journey through its historic cities, ancient temples, and stunning coastal villages.
From majestic Mount Etna to charming Taormina, experience the island’s rich culture, flavours, and timeless beauty.
Format
Locations
- Catania
- Agrigento
- Palermo
Inclusions
• Round-trip flight to Catania
• Round-trip airport transfers
• 9 nights’ accommodation
• 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 1 dinner, and 2 tastings
• Guided tours in Noto, Syracuse, Agrigento, Marsala, Palermo, Mount Etna and Taormina
• Transportation by air-conditioned minibus or private coach throughout the tour
• Entrance fees to museums
• Sightseeing tour of Palermo’s historic center by Ape Calessino
• Services of a French-speaking guide from Day 3 to Day 9
• Wireless audio guide system
• City taxes
•Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Board your flight to Catania, Sicily.
Day 2
Welcome to Catania
Arrive at Catania Airport and transfer to your hotel located in the charming seaside village of Aci Trezza.
Day 3
Catania – Noto and Syracuse
Meet your tour guide after breakfast and depart for Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque. Enjoy a stroll through its elegant streets and visit the cathedral, palaces and sculpted balconies, symbols of the city’s rebirth after the 1693 earthquake.
In the afternoon, head to Syracuse, an ancient city rich in history. Visit the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, including the Greek Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, and the fascinating Ear of Dionysius.
Continue to Ortygia Island, the lively historic center, with its flower-filled alleys, Baroque cathedral, and the Fountain of Arethusa. Enjoylunch in a local trattoria.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 4
Catania- Piazza Armerina - Agrigento
Departure for Piazza Armerina through the rolling hills of inland Sicily. Visit the UNESCO-listed Villa Romana del Casale, an ancient Roman residence renowned for its exceptional mosaics depicting hunting scenes, myths and graceful female figures.
Stop for lunch at an agriturismo (working farm that offers accommodations, meals or both) in the countryside, then continue to Agrigento to explore the legendary Valley of the Temples—Concordia, Juno, Hercules—majestic monuments surrounded by olive trees and golden light.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 5
Agrigento – Marsala and the Salt pans
After breakfast, depart for the west coast to discover the Marsala salt pans of the Stagnone Lagoon. Enjoy a guided visit through this spectacular landscape of sky, sea and windmills. Visit the Salt Museum and learn about the traditional salt-harvesting process.
In the afternoon, stroll through the refined historic center of Marsala, known for its elegant Baroque architecture and famous wine.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 6
Agrigento – Monreale - Palermo
Morning visit to Monreale, overlooking Palermo. Explore its Norman Cathedral, a Byzantine masterpiece adorned with golden mosaics, and the cloister with sculpted columns.
Return to Palermo to visit the Norman Palace and its Palatine Chapel, a jewel of Byzantine art, followed by Palermo Cathedral, blending Arab, Norman and Baroque influences.
In the afternoon, enjoy a Palermo tour by Ape Calessino (motorized rickshaw): Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria, and Ballarò Market, an immersion into the city’s lively soul.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 7
Palermo - Cefalù - Catania
Depart for Cefalù, a medieval seaside village on the Tyrrhenian coast. Visit its UNESCO-listed Norman Cathedral and wander through its charming narrow streets. You’ll also have the option of visiting the Mandralisca Museum.
Enjoy a traditional lunch, then continue to Catania, “the black city” shaped by lava. Explore Piazza del Duomo, the Elephant Fountain, Baroque streets and elegant palaces.
Taste the local granita with brioche before returning to Aci Trezza.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch, and tasting
Day 8
Catania- Mount Etna
A full day on the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Take an optional cable car ride to admire craters, lava flows and the moon-like landscape.
On the way back down, stop at a vineyard on Etna’s fertile slopes for a tasting of mineral-rich wines paired with local specialties: charcuterie, cheeses, bread and olive oil.
Return to Aci Trezza in the late afternoon.
Meal(s): Breakfast and tasting
Day 9
Catania- Taormina - The Alcantara Gorges
Morning visit to Taormina, perched above the sea. Stroll through its elegant lanes, gardens and flowering balconies. Visit the Greco-Roman Theatre with its breathtaking view of Etna and the sea.
Stop for lunch in a local restaurant, then continue to the Alcantara Gorges, carved into cooled lava. Enjoy a walk along the river or relax in this striking natural setting.
Return to Aci Trezza with free time in the evening.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 10
Catania at Leisure
Enjoy a full day at leisure in the Sicilian sun and sea or explore more of the island’s many attractions at your own pace.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 11
Catania – Return to Canada
After breakfast, take your transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
4 Star Accommodation
Location
Hotel
Room details
Bed size(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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2026 guaranteed departures
- June 4 & 18
- July 2 & 16
- September 3 & 17
- October 1 &15
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Not Included
• Drinks with meals (except for wine tasting)
• Tips
• Local taxes -
Minibus seats a maximum of 35 passengers
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The order visited may change due to operational restrictions. The itinerary above is for reference only.