Discover Sicily: A Tapestry of Ancient Power and Baroque Splendor
This unforgettable journey brings Sicily’s millennia of history to life from the ancient glory of Syracuse to the exquisite mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale and the lost city of Morgantina, frozen in time.
Over the course of a week, we’ll walk in the footsteps of Greeks, Romans, and Normans, uncovering Sicily’s layered past in Taormina’s Greco-Roman theater and the dramatic slopes of Mount Etna. We’ll trace the flourish of Baroque architecture in the stunning towns of Noto, Modica, and Ragusa, and explore Catania’s vibrant energy and rich heritage.
But the experience goes beyond the monuments. You’ll enjoy exclusive access to iconic sites, savor unforgettable flavors from silky granita at Caffè Sicilia to rustic meals prepared with village mammas, and visit cultural treasures like Cefalù’s Norman cathedral and the majestic temples of Agrigento.
Guided by experts and thoughtfully curated from start to finish, this is not just a tour, it’s a full immersion into the soul of Sicily, where every stone has a story and every meal is a celebration.
Day 1 – May 3
Arrival & Check-in
Arrive in Sicily and check in to your hotel in Syracuse (Ortigia).
Optional: For early arrivals and travelers unfazed by jet lag, we offer a light walking tour of Ortigia to stretch your legs and preview the city.
Meals: Aperitivo and dinner.
Day 2 – May 4
Syracuse & Noto: Crossroads of Civilizations
Begin the day at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, including the Greek Theater, Roman Amphitheater, and Ear of Dionysius. Then, step into Ortigia to visit the Duomo (Temple of Athena), the Fountain of Arethusa, and Caravaggio’s Burial of St. Lucy.In the late afternoon, head to Noto to admire its UNESCO-listed Baroque streetscape.
Optional: Add a visit to the Jewish mikveh — advance notice required as this will extend the day’s program.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 3 – May 5
Ragusa & Modica: Baroque and Beyond
Full-day excursion to Ragusa Ibla, a jewel of Sicilian Baroque. Afternoon visit to Modica for a chocolate tasting and a stroll through its dramatic cliffside alleys and staircases.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 4 – May 6
Heart of Sicily: Caltagirone, Villa Romana del Casale, Morgantina
We’ll explore Caltagirone,a charming town famed for its colorful ceramics and staircases. Then, continue to the Roman Villa at Piazza Armerina (Villa Romana del Casale), celebrated for its world-class mosaics, and end the day at Morgantina, a Greek-Roman city.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 5 – May 7
Catania & Riviera dei Ciclopi: Transfer to Taormina
Begin with a morning walking tour of Catania’s historic center, from its bustling fish market to its Baroque piazzas.
Follow the coast north along the Riviera dei Ciclopi, steeped in myth and lava-stone charm.
Afternoon arrival in Taormina
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 6 – May 8
Taormina & Castelmola: Leisure with a View
Morning guided tour of Taormina, including the ancient Greek-Roman theater, followed by a visit to the picturesque mountaintop village of Castelmola.
Afternoon free for shopping, beach time, or café-hopping.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 7 – May 9
Mount Etna Jeep Adventure & Winery Lunch
Venture up Mount Etna in off-road jeeps with local expert guides. Explore recent lava flows and ancient craters.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 8 – May 10
“The Godfather” Movie Tour: Savoca, Forza d’Agrò & Motta Camastra
Trace the cinematic footsteps of The Godfather through the hill towns. Visit film locations including Apollonia’s silver screen arrival and the churches of Michael Corleone’s wedding scenes.
Lunch and cooking experience with the Mamme del Borgo in Motta Camastra, featuring traditional maccarruni and regional recipes.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Day 8 – May 11
Departure
Transfer to Catania airport or extend your stay independently.
What’s Included
- All meals and beverages as outlined in the itinerary
- Hotel accommodations throughout the trip
- Airport transfers to and from Tunis-Carthage International Airport
- All guided tours, entrance fees, site transportation, and activities as detailed in the itinerary
- Services of expert local guides and drivers, including your host
- 24/7 on-the-ground support from Ancient Rome Live’s trusted partners
- A dedicated travel planning team managing all excursion logistics
- Custom trip planning available for additional travel before or after the program
What’s Not Included
- Meals not specified in the itinerary, as well as premium or alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities and personal expenses
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and service staff
- Trip insurance (strongly recommended)
Meet Unlocked Rome
Darius Arya is an archaeologist, scholar, and TV host with a PhD in Roman Archaeology. He has led major excavations in Rome and founded the American Institute for Roman Culture and Ancient Rome Live. Known for making history engaging and accessible, Darius has hosted over 20 international documentaries and shares his expertise across platforms like National Geographic, PBS, and YouTube.
