Day 1 UK-Palermo, Sicily

Fly to Palermo on Sicily’s northern coast and transfer to the locally rated 4-star Hotel Garibaldi (3Q) where you’ll stay for three nights.

The hotel is located opposite the grand Politeama theatre, and is within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. Facilities at this modern hotel include a restaurant, where your buffet-style hot and cold breakfast will be served, a small bar and a fitness room. Public areas in this hotel are relaxing and compact. All 70 rooms are equipped with a satellite television, direct-dial telephone, hairdryer, a small fridge, tea-making facilities (no milk or coffee) and complimentary internet access.

Look forward to a welcome dinner and drink this evening where you can get to know your fellow passengers. D

Day 2 Palermo

Today embark on a full day guided tour of Palermo and Monreale.

This exotic city has a fascinating history reflected in its varied architecture which encompasses Arabic, baroque and art nouveau styles. Coupled with its glorious coastal setting, it's quite unlike any other Mediterranean city. Here you’ll visit the ornate Palermo Cathedral, one of the great sights of Norman Sicily, and the Church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti. Neighbouring Monreale is also home to a stunning Norman cathedral which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. B

Day 3 Palermo

Spend today at leisure.

Perhaps continue to explore Palermo independently, or alternatively, visit the seaside town of Cefalu and the mountain town of Castelbuono on an optional excursion. B

Day 4 Palermo-Catania

This morning take a scenic coach transfer of approximately four hours to Catania. En route pause in Piazza Armerina for a self-guided visit of Villa Romana de Casale. This UNESCO-protected archaeological site houses one of the richest and most varied collections of Roman mosaics world-wide.

Located on the east coast of the island, Catania is an ancient port city which sits at the foot of Mount Etna.

On arrival, transfer to the locally rated 4-star Hotel Katane (3Q) where you’ll stay for four nights. The hotel is close to a number of restaurants and bars. Facilities include a restaurant, bar/lounge, coffee shop and free Wi-Fi throughout. All 58 rooms have a minibar, telephone and safe. B

Day 5 Catania

After breakfast, look forward to a full day excursion to Syracuse and the island of Ortygia.

One of the most fascinating towns in Sicily, Syracuse once rivalled Athens as the greatest city of the Greek world. This guided excursion includes a visit to the Archaeological Park, where you can see the remains of temples, tombs, a Roman amphitheatre and one of the largest Greek theatres in existence. Enjoy time at leisure this afternoon in the historic centre on Ortygia island with its remains of a 5th-century Greek temple now incorporated into the baroque cathedral. B

Day 6 Catania

Spend the day at leisure or join an optional excursion to Taormina and Catania. B

Day 7 Catania

Today is at leisure to continue exploring Catania independently, or alternatively, perhaps join an optional excursion to Mount Etna, with an included wine tasting.

Look forward to a farewell dinner this evening. B, D

Day 8 Catania-UK

Depart your hotel after breakfast, and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. B