Sicily, Palermo, and the Aeolian Islands in 5 days

Welcome to Palermo, the jewel of the Mediterranean.

After our transfer to the hotel, you will have free time to explore this fascinating Sicilian capital at your own pace.

With over half a million inhabitants, Palermo presents itself as a vibrant and deeply authentic city, where history is seamlessly woven into everyday life.

Its rich architecture—bearing the imprint of the many civilizations that once ruled here—reveals Arab, Norman, Aragonese, and Baroque influences, blending in a surprisingly captivating harmony. With its mild climate year-round, lively spirit, and a local cuisine as generous as it is flavorful, this is a city not merely to be visited, but to be lived and felt.

Greca Tip: We recommend a leisurely stroll through the Ballarò Market, where the aromas, colors, and sounds will offer you an unforgettable and truly immersive sensory experience.

We will begin our day with a delicious breakfast before setting off on a journey filled with discovery. Today, we will explore two of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for their ongoing volcanic activity.

We will board a hydrofoil that will take us to Vulcano, an island known for the intense scent of sulfur that permeates the air and its impressive active fumaroles. The imposing crater dominates the landscape, and its warm beaches invite us to relax. We highly recommend experiencing the island’s famous sulfurous thermal baths, where the mineral-rich mud is said to have beneficial properties for the skin—an unforgettable and truly unique experience.

Later, we will take another hydrofoil, just a 15-minute ride, to Lipari, the largest and liveliest island in the archipelago. Its charming historic center, majestic castle, and vibrant atmosphere invite us to wander through its streets and immerse ourselves in its local charm. You will have free time to enjoy lunch and explore the island at your own pace.

In the afternoon, we will return by boat to Milazzo, from where we will continue our journey toward Taormina. We will arrive at the end of the day and settle into our accommodations in this beautiful town. To conclude the day, we will enjoy an included dinner.

Greca Tip: While visiting the Aeolian Islands, don’t miss the chance to try granita, a refreshing traditional Sicilian dessert—perfect after a day of exploration.

We will start the day enjoying a delicious breakfast before beginning our journey in the charming city of Taormina, located at the foot of the imposing Mount Etna. This place, described by Winston Churchill as "the most beautiful on Earth," invites us to explore its vibrant old town, full of history and life. Its famous Greek Theater, situated in a privileged location, will offer us unforgettable landscapes with views of the sea and the volcano.

Early in the morning, we will head to Giardini Naxos, the first Greek settlement in Sicily (founded in 734 B.C.), featuring a lovely seaside promenade and lively beaches. Afterwards, we will have free time to stroll through the historic center of Taormina, with its unforgettable landscapes and its beautiful Greek theatre

After lunch, we will continue to the Villa Romana del Casale, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. With entry and a guided tour included, we will explore this impressive Roman villa, a testament to the grandeur of the Empire. In addition to preserving its 4th-century architectural structure, its mosaics, which decorate almost all the rooms, are considered the most beautiful in the Roman world.

Crossing the mountainous heart of the island, we will finally arrive in Palermo at dusk, where we will have dinner and stay overnight.

Greca Tip: In Taormina, we shouldn’t miss strolling along Corso Umberto, its main street filled with shops, cafés, and charming corners. For a special moment, enjoying a coffee or an aperitif on a terrace with a sea view is a great option.

We will start the day by enjoying a delicious breakfast before beginning our guided tour of the city of Palermo. During the tour, we will discover some of its most emblematic landmarks, such as the impressive cathedral (entrance included), a masterpiece that combines different architectural styles and houses the royal tombs inside. We will also visit the Norman Palace, the former royal residence, and explore its fountains, markets, and gardens, which reflect the city's rich cultural heritage.

As part of the visit, we will head to Monreale, whose majestic cathedral has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its interior will amaze us with its spectacular golden mosaics, considered one of the greatest treasures of medieval art.

After the visit, a transfer to Palermo Airport is included, thus concluding our services. We hope to have provided you with an unforgettable experience.

We recommend checking your flight schedule in case you need an additional night.

Greca Tip: In Palermo, we cannot miss trying pane con la milza, a typical Sicilian sandwich made with veal spleen, sold in markets and considered a true delight for lovers of local cuisine. Dare to try it!

Early in the morning, we will depart from Palermo, traveling along the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea and enjoying stunning landscapes. We will head inland to discover Castelbuono, a charming and picturesque mountain village that reflects the serenity of the island’s interior, with its ancient walls, imposing castle, and enchanting streets.

Next, we will visit the beautiful coastal city of Cefalù. Its impressive Norman cathedral, with its unique architecture and mosaics, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic center, with its narrow alleyways, panoramic sea views, and lively commercial and tourist atmosphere, will amaze us.

After some free time for lunch, we will continue our journey along the coast toward Tindari. At the top of a mountain overlooking the sea stands the Sanctuary of Tindari, a famous pilgrimage site that houses the image of the Black Madonna and offers breathtaking views. Very close to the sanctuary, we will have the chance to explore the remains of the ancient Greek polis.

Our final stop will be Milazzo, a lively port city located in front of the volcanic Aeolian Islands. Here, we will spend the night, soaking in its atmosphere and preparing for the next stage of our journey.

Greca Tip: In Cefalù, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes to walk along its cobblestone streets. If we have time, we should climb La Rocca, where we can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city and the sea.