Excursions

Driving to western part of Sicily from Palermo, the first stop will be the medieval town of Erice, situated 2600 ft above the sea level and surrounded by ancient walls. Two castles make for a spectacular skyline to this town: Pepoli Castle, with foundations dating from Saracen times, and Venus Castle, dating from the Norman era but built on ruins of the ancient Temple of Venus. The view from the castle towers is breathtaking.

You may also visit the Cathedral built in the 1300 in Gothic Catalan style with amazing decorations, one of them being the picture of the famous black Virgin venerated in the area. Don't forget to taste the famous almond pastries made by the famous shop "Maria Grammatico".

After traveling through the Saltpans to see the historic salt flats works, where the ancient tradition of harvesting salt from the sea is still practiced, you will reach an olive oil farm. Here you will enjoy a light lunch including a tasting of local products such as cheese, cold cuts, olives, local bread and olive oil. 

Then move on to the magnificent Temple of Segesta. It was built by the Elimian, an old population whose origins were perhaps Turkish and was later colonized by the Greeks. It is the first Greek Temple built in Doric style and has 36 columns, still intact despite the several earthquakes which affected this area in the history. Also visit the theater, which is a typical example of the Greek semicircular theater style.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

A must see for those who enjoy visiting Ancient Roman ruins and some experts are calling this site "The Better Pompeii" - Come see why! Ancient Ostia is reachable by local train from Rome and the buildings and sites are incredibly well preserved, better than favorites in the Roman Forum, Imperial Forum and Pompeii.

Highlights include, but are not limited to: Baths of Neptune, the main street Decumanus Maximus, Ostia's Amphitheater, Forum of the Corporations, the Collegiate Temple, the laundry shop and public baths.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Depart to explore the Val di Noto, home to two magnificent Baroque towns designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. This area underwent extensive reconstruction in the Sicilian Baroque style following a devastating earthquake in 1693. After a scenic one-hour drive through the countryside, you'll arrive in Modica, characterized by its dual levels, connected by numerous steps, with palaces and houses nestled into the gorge.

Modica boasts a rich tradition of Sicilian chocolate-making, dating back 400 years. Influenced by its Spanish heritage, Modica's chocolate is crafted using ancient Aztec techniques, preserving its nutrients and flavors. You'll explore chocolate shops and watch chocolatiers at work. Then, you'll participate in a workshop to create your own chocolate bars.

Next, a short drive will take to Ragusa, one of Sicily's most captivating towns. Almost entirely rebuilt in Baroque style after the earthquake, Ragusa's lower part leaves a lasting impression with its stunning architecture.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Visit two of the most important and best preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sicily: Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina and Valley of Temples in Agrigento.

Head to Piazza Armerina and visit the Villa Romana del Casale, containing the richest, largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Then continue to Agrigento to visit the famous Valley of Temples. These are among the greatest Greek ruins in the world, and the splendor of the temples in the Doric style, built during the 5th and 6th centuries B.C.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Pompeii has inspired countless documentaries, movies and books and is an UNESCO World Heritage site. In the morning, you will take an air-conditioned bus from Rome to Pompeii (approx. 2.5 hrs). Sitting in the shadow of Vesuvius, the now ruined city of Pompeii was once a sprawling metropolis of shops and residences, restaurants, gyms and brothels. Entering with a Skip the Line, pre-booked access you’ll walk Pompeii’s main streets just as the ancient Romans did. The stones are still worn with tracks from the drawn carriages that tread them nearly 2000 years ago! You’ll visit the forum, the center of Pompeii’s political and social life, as well as view the startling plaster death casts of the victims of the catastrophic eruption that destroyed the city – freezing forever in time a moment that would live on in history.

After a break for a pizza lunch at a local restaurant, you will reach Mt Vesuvius and take in the incredible views of Naples. Infamous for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79AD, Vesuvius has erupted many times since – and is today regarded as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to the 3,000,000 people living directly in its path of destruction. Lava flows have scarred the sides of the volcano, and are visible on the winding road up to the top. From the parking area, it is a 20 minute upward hike to the crater through soft volcanic ash and pumice for which comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The view from the top is well worth the while. Once the tour is over, you will take the bus back to Rome, to the tour's original meeting point.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Leave Catania and arrive in Taormina after an approximately 60-minute drive. Start your day in Taormina with a guided walking tour led by your private guide, who will take you through the city's captivating highlights. You'll also have the opportunity to visit other prominent landmarks such as Palazzo Corvaja, the Baroque Fountain, Church of San Domenico, and more!

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Visit the famous Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These are among the greatest Greek ruins in the world, and the splendor of the temples in the Doric style, built during the 5th and 6th centuries B.C.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Make the most of your time and enjoy three of the most famous and beautiful sites in Italy in a single day trip from Rome. In a comfortable, air-conditioned coach you will be led by an enthusiastic tour guide to discover the wonders of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Positano.

Enjoy Skip-the-Line entry to Pompeii where an expert, English speaking, local guide will bring to life the ancient city as you wander the streets that have been frozen in time since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Then, discover the beauty of the Amalfi Coast as you leisurely drive down to one of the most beautiful seaside villages in Italy, Positano. Here you will have free time to explore the meandering streets lined with artisanal local shops or you may just sit back and enjoy the incredible view while sipping the local specialty, limoncello (tasting not included)!

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Visit the iconic Baroque town of Noto and one of the prettiest seaside fishing villages in Sicily. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and light lunch at a local winery.

The leisurely drive will take you down the eastern coastline of Sicily passing the "Piana of Catania", the coast line of the Ionic sea and Iblei mountains, arriving at one of most renowned wineries in Eastern Sicily. Take a walk through the vineyards and savor some of the locally produced wine and food.

Then head to Noto. The beautiful antique town was built in 1703. You will walk on Corso Vittorio Emanuele and admire numerous 18th century palaces of incredible architectural value. The streets leading to Corso Vittorio Emanuele have also many beautiful buildings including the Duomo, the Museo Civico and the Convento dei Francescani.

Your final stop is Marzamemi, a captivating fisherman village. Once famous for its tonnara (tuna processing plant) which is no longer in function, Marzamemi continues its artisanal fishing and processing activities, producing all manner of delicacies, including canned tuna, dried tuna roe (bottarga) and marinated anchovies. The old town is situated on a little promontory and organized around the extremely picturesque Piazza Regina Margherita. On the south side is the little fishing harbor with its bobbing fleet of colorful wooden boats and charming buildings, including the Church of San Francesco di Paola and the fisherman's houses, with sky blue doors and potted red geraniums.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Start your day in Siracusa by taking a leisurely walk through Ortigia Island, the pulsating heart of the city. Wander along the historic narrow streets that retain their medieval charm, eventually reaching the enchanting Duomo square, one of the city highlights.

In the afternoon, explore the renowned Archaeological Park of Neapolis. Delve into the rich history as you visit the Greek theater, the Roman amphitheater, and the Latomia del Paradiso, which includes the Dionysius Ear, along with the fascinating "Ara of Hyeron."

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Embark on a culinary journey in the enchanting medieval town of Mazzano Romano, a mere 40-50 minutes from Rome's bustling city center.

Your day commences with a scenic drive to Mazzano Romano, a medieval village nestled in a serene and picturesque landscape. This charming village offers a tranquil escape from the vibrant hustle and bustle of Rome's urban life, making it a favored retreat for local families.

Upon arrival in Mazzano, your expert chef will guide you on a leisurely walking tour through the village and its market offering you a glimpse into local life. Following the village exploration, you'll return to the cooking school for a hands-on culinary lesson. Subsequently, you'll relish the delicious meal you've prepared, complemented by regional wines. With your newfound culinary skills and knowledge, you'll be chauffeured back to the heart of Rome, ensuring that the memories of this experience endure long after your journey has concluded.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Your destination today is the southern part of the Island - enjoy the visit of the real Sicilian Baroque among the wonderful unspoiled charming villages of Noto, Modica and Ragusa Ibla.

The leisurely drive will take you down the eastern coastline of Sicily passing the "Piana of Catania", the coast line of the Ionic sea and Iblei mountains, arriving in Noto. The beautiful antique town was built in 1703. You will walk on Corso Vittorio Emanuele and admire numerous 18th century palaces of incredible architectural value. The streets all leading to Corso Vittorio Emanuele have also many beautiful buildings including the Duomo, the Museo Civico and the Convento dei Francescani.

Continue to the charming Ragusa and visit the old part, "Ragusa Ibla". The tour will end with a visit of the antique village of Modica, famous also for its special unique chocolate - tasting is a must!

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Visit two of the most important and best preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sicily: Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina and Valley of Temples in Agrigento.

Head to Piazza Armerina and visit the Villa Romana del Casale, containing the richest, largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Then continue to Agrigento to visit the famous Valley of Temples. These are among the greatest Greek ruins in the world, and the splendor of the temples in the Doric style, built during the 5th and 6th centuries B.C.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Explore the charm of Villa Balbianello with a Private Cruise Experience.

Drift along the picturesque Western branch of the lake, reveling in breathtaking views of majestic mountains and opulent villas. Embark on a guided tour at Villa del Balbianello, must-see destination on Lake Como. The villa is celebrated for its meticulously landscaped terraced gardens that gracefully descend to the lake, as well as its architectural grandeur. Notable features include the beautiful loggia with stunning arched openings, and the terraces that offer panoramic views of the mountains and the sparkling lake.

Villa Balbianello boasts a rich history, once serving as the residence of Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini in the 18th century and later becoming a hub for intellectuals and artists and its interiors showcase a captivating collection of art and artifacts.

Also, movie enthusiasts may recognize Villa Balbianello from its appearances in films such as "Casino Royale" and "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones", adding a cinematic touch to the visit.

Following the villa and garden exploration, enjoy a leisurely cruise back to Bellagio.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Meeting location at Bellagio pier.

Visit two of the most important and best preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sicily: Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina and Valley of Temples in Agrigento.

Head to Piazza Armerina and visit the Villa Romana del Casale, containing the richest, largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Then continue to Agrigento to visit the famous Valley of Temples. These are among the greatest Greek ruins in the world, and the splendor of the temples in the Doric style, built during the 5th and 6th centuries B.C.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Get ready to taste exquisite wines and genuine traditional food of the Piedmont region. Leave Turin behind and step into the land of Langhe and Barolo wine, meet local producers and discover the secrets of their renowned vineyards and wineries.

Meet your expert driver in Turin and reach the beautiful region of Langhe and Barolo red wine. First stop is at a family-run winery to to learn the traditional process of wine production. You’ll visit the cellars where the wine is kept, taste their high-quality wines and listen to their inspiring stories.  Stop for lunch in one of the traditional restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal made of handmade pasta paired with a glass of local wine.  Discover another part of the Piedmont valley for your second experience and stop at a more modern winery managed by passionate winemakers, where you’ll learn about methods of production and taste excellent wines.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Explore the charm of Villa Balbianello with a Private Cruise Experience.

Drift along the picturesque Southern branch of the lake, reveling in breathtaking views of majestic mountains and opulent villas. Embark on a guided tour at Villa del Balbianello, must-see destination on Lake Como. The villa is celebrated for its meticulously landscaped terraced gardens that gracefully descend to the lake, as well as its architectural grandeur. Notable features include the beautiful loggia with stunning arched openings, and the terraces that offer panoramic views of the mountains and the sparkling lake.

Villa Balbianello boasts a rich history, once serving as the residence of Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini in the 18th century and later becoming a hub for intellectuals and artists and its interiors showcase a captivating collection of art and artifacts.

Also, movie enthusiasts may recognize Villa Balbianello from its appearances in films such as "Casino Royale" and "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones", adding a cinematic touch to the visit.

Following the villa and garden exploration, enjoy a leisurely cruise back to Como.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Meeting location at Como pier.

Enjoy an authentic Italian culinary experience just outside of Sorrento at a family-owned farm since 1898 including a hands-on demonstration and tastings of freshly made Italian delights! 

Board a shuttle bus in Sorrento and transfer to Massa Lubrense. Join a guided tour of the farm among fruit trees, vines, hives, friendly animals, seasonal crops, olive and lemon groves. Learn about the farm's history, how the famous I.G.P. Sorrento Lemons, D.O.P. Sorrento Peninsula Olive Oil and Wine are produced and visit the ancient family wine cellar, the farm's museum in the 18th century Chapel and the old Oil Mill.  Then enjoy a tasting of typical Italian delicacies including limoncello liqueur, homemade lemonade, sliced lemons with sugar, lemon and orange jams, honey, cheeses, D.O.P Extra Virgin Olive Oil on homemade bread.

Enjoy a light meal including an appetizer, a first course of pasta and a dessert.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Embark on a panoramic private boat tour across the mesmerizing Lake Como, allowing yourself to be entranced by its breathtaking vistas. Cruise through the pristine waters, absorbing the picturesque views of charming villages adorning the left branch of Lake Como.

You will pass by prestigious villas, including the luxurious 5-star hotel, Villa D’Este, Villa Fontanelle formerly owned by Gianni Versace, and the iconic Villa Oleandra, home to George Clooney.

You will stop in Bellagio, the pearl of Lake Como, and enjoy a walking tour through the enchanting corners of the town with your private local guide. You will also have one hour of free time to explore the town on your own or have lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Afterward, continue onto Varenna, located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, renowned for its stunning lakeside setting with colorful houses, narrow alleys, and a relaxed atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains, before heading back to Como.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. If you are staying at a centrally located hotel, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby.  Otherwise, a meeting point will be arranged.

Your private guide will walk your through the town walls to enjoy a beautiful view over the roofs, alleys, house-towers, churches and marvelous noble palazzos, then moving to the old town center to see Piazza Anfteatro, Guinigi tower, St. Martin’s Cathedral and the typical Street of Antiques shops. Enjoy free time in the city before heading back to Florence.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Embark on a panoramic private boat tour across the mesmerizing Lake Como, allowing yourself to be entranced by its breathtaking vistas. Cruise through the pristine waters, absorbing the picturesque views of charming villages adorning the left branch of Lake Como.

You will pass by prestigious villas, including the luxurious 5-star hotel, Villa D’Este, Villa Fontanelle formerly owned by Gianni Versace, and the iconic Villa Oleandra, home to George Clooney.

You will stop at Villa del Balbianello, must-see destination on Lake Como, for a private guided tour. The villa is celebrated for its meticulously landscaped terraced gardens that gracefully descend to the lake, as well as its architectural grandeur. Notable features include the beautiful loggia with stunning arched openings, and the terraces that offer panoramic views of the mountains and the sparkling lake. Also, movie enthusiasts may recognize Villa Balbianello from its appearances in films such as "Casino Royale" and "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones", adding a cinematic touch to the visit.

Afterward, continue onto Bellagio, the pearl of Lake Como, and enjoy a walking tour through the enchanting corners of the town with your private local guide. You will also have one hour of free time to explore the town on your own or have lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, before heading back to Como.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Meeting location at Como pier.

Traveling through the hills of Crete Senesi, just around an hour from Siena, you will discover the ancient cities of Arezzo and Cortona. On this full day tour, you will first stop in Arezzo, an ancient city with Etruscan roots, famous for its stunning works of art by Piero della Francesca and Cimabue. Visit the Basilica of San Francesco, Piazza Grande, and the medieval Church of San Domenico, home to Cimabue’s remarkable crucifix. Stroll through charming antique shops and boutiques, soaking in the city's rich artistic heritage.

Next, travel through the picturesque Val di Chiana to Cortona, a hilltop town offering sweeping views of the valley below. You may explore the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita, perched at the highest point of the village, and take in the panoramic scenery. Descend into the city center, where you can visit the tranquil Eremo delle Celle, a 13th-century convent founded by St. Francis. As you arrive in the main square, admire the historic Town Hall and Clock Tower. You’ll have time to shop, capture stunning photos, and soak in the timeless beauty of Cortona.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel. 

Visit the famous Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These are among the greatest Greek ruins in the world, and the splendor of the temples in the Doric style, built during the 5th and 6th centuries B.C.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Get fully immersed in the flavors of the most famous, traditional products of the region: Parmigiano, Prosciutto and Balsamic Vinegar.

You will be picked up at your hotel, then brought to your first stop on this tasting tour - an authentic cheese dairy of Parmigiano-Reggiano to watch how the cheese is freshly made. The next stop is a plant where the world famous Prosciutto is made. The day concludes with a trip to a producer of Balsamic Vinegar in Modena to see how it's made and, of course a tasting.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Visit the iconic Baroque town of Noto and one of the prettiest seaside fishing villages in Sicily. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and light lunch at a local winery.

The leisurely drive will take you down the eastern coastline of Sicily passing the "Piana of Catania", the coast line of the Ionic sea and Iblei mountains, arriving at one of most renowned wineries in Eastern Sicily. Take a walk through the vineyards and savor some of the locally produced wine and food.

Then head to Noto. The beautiful antique town was built in 1703. You will walk on Corso Vittorio Emanuele and admire numerous 18th century palaces of incredible architectural value. The streets leading to Corso Vittorio Emanuele have also many beautiful buildings including the Duomo, the Museo Civico and the Convento dei Francescani.

Your final stop is Marzamemi, a captivating fisherman village. Once famous for its tonnara (tuna processing plant) which is no longer in function, Marzamemi continues its artisanal fishing and processing activities, producing all manner of delicacies, including canned tuna, dried tuna roe (bottarga) and marinated anchovies. The old town is situated on a little promontory and organized around the extremely picturesque Piazza Regina Margherita. On the south side is the little fishing harbor with its bobbing fleet of colorful wooden boats and charming buildings, including the Church of San Francesco di Paola and the fisherman's houses, with sky blue doors and potted red geraniums.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Transfer by taxi to Monreale and visit the magnificent Norman Cathedral with its impressive Byzantine mosaics from the 12th century and the enchanted cloister of the former Benedictine Monastery. Then return to Palermo and enjoy a private, guided tour of the major sights in Palermo (the Norman Cathedral, PIazza Pretoria, Via Maqueda and the picturesque Ballaro' or Capo fresh food market). The tour ends in Piazza Verdi (Massimo Opera Theater square) or in Piazza Ruggero Settimo (Politeama Theater square). Independent transfer back to your hotel.

This tour is available at 8:30am, 9am, 2pm or 2:30pm. Please request your preferred time slot at the time of booking.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Discover two gems in Northern Sicily with a tour to Castelbuono and Cefalu' and savor some local dishes at a winery.

Your private driver will greet you at your hotel in Palermo and take you to Castlbuono, a small medieval village in the Park of Madonie with a delightful, still well preserved old town. This village develops around the castle of Ventimiglia and will captivate you from the very first moment. Walk through its narrow street and stop at one of the typical cafes to taste a pastry made with the Sicilian “manna”, a natural sugar that comes from a special ash tree.

Enjoy lunch at a local winery before heading to Cefalu'. This charming resort is dominated by a monumental rock known as “promontory of Hercules” on which the Temple of Diana stands. The historic center lies in the shadow of this bastion and clings around the Duomo, a gigantic cathedral built by Roger II, the Norman.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Enjoy a full day tour to the Sicilian villages where some scenes from the Godfather movies were shot and to lovely Taormina.

Your private English-speaking driver will greet you at your hotel in Palermo and take you to Savoca (the drive is about 3 hours). This medieval village has a panoramic promenade and the famous church of Sant' Nicolò or better called Santa Lucia which was used in the Godfather movie for the marriage of Al Pacino and Apollonia is located right in the city center. Then stop at the "VITELLI" bar, one of Coppola's favorite spots. Continue your journey to a charming little village overlooking the Arab-Norman castle of Capo Sant’Alessio. In 1990, Al Pacino and Sophia Coppola shot scenes here for The Godfather III. Then arrive in the resort town of Taormina. You will have free time to stroll along the main pedestrian street, Corso Umberto, and visit the Greek Roman Theater on your own before heading back to Palermo (about 3 hours).

Exact time will be provided in final documents. Pick up at your hotel.

Pompeii holds an intense fascination for visitors today. Following the eruption of the volcano Mount Vesuvius in the year 79 A.D., Pompeii lay buried and forgotten for hundreds of years. The town is high on the list of the Wonders of the World and the excavations begun in the 18th Century are still being carried out today.

Your guide will take you slowly through some of the ancient streets of Pompeii where you can see Baths, Forums and Villas built by the prosperous Romans in the year 80 B.C. Marvel at the fabulously preserved Frescos which adorned the walls and floors of the Villas. Even if your interests do not lie in history, this is an archaeological site that cannot fail to impress you.

Mount Vesuvius dominates the Bay of Naples. It is the only active volcano on the mainland of Europe. The slopes were once covered with vineyards and woods and provided an innocent looking backdrop for the bustling town below. The bus will take you to within nearly 1,000 yards of the top of Vesuvius and from here you can hike to the very top and admire the splendid panoramic views across the bay. From the blackened crater rises a single plume of smoke, a reminder that the volcano is only sleeping for now...

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Depart from Naples for a 30-minute ride to Pompeii, the ancient Roman city destroyed tragically after the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius in the year 79 B.C. You can admire all the structures typical of the Roman world as the main square or forum, baths, theaters, mansions with remains of frescoes from Roman times, the attraction of spectacular plaster casts containing bones of Pompeians that died during the disaster.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.