8 days
Sicily, Sicily

Day 5: Selinunte - Marsala - Erice - Palermo

Breakfast will be at the hotel this morning, followed by a departure to Selinunte, which lies on the southern coast towards Agrigento, to visit one of the largest archaeological areas of Europe. Selinunte was one of the most important towns of Western Sicily and originates as a Greek colony, with a tumultous history always fighting against Segesta for power.

You will then depart for Marsala, a seaport town on the Western coast famous for its wine production. Visit the Salt marshes, where sea salt is still being produced using the ancient process of salt extraction dating as far back as the ancient Egyptians.  Then, transfer to a farm house to have an olive oil tasting with a visit to Olive Oil Frantoio, followed by a lunch.

In the afternoon, transfer to Erice, a nearby medieval town, and enjoy a walking visit of its characteristic historical center.

Continue to Palermo for overnight.   (BB,L,D)

 

 

4 star Hotel: Residenza d'Aragona ( Or similar star rated hotel)

Day 6: Segesta - Palermo and Monreale

You will meet your private Palermo guide for a full-day visit of this ancient town that has been a crossroads for civilization in the Mediterranean for ages and ages. Walk through the streets of the historical center, and visit the town's popular Vucciria market. Lunch will be on your own in town.

Continue the visit of Palermo in the afternoon and then transfer to Monreale, an ancient village near Palermo, famous for its wonderful Norman Cathedral and the adjoining cloister, architectural masterpieces of King Roger II.

Return to Palermo and check-in to your hotel. You will have time for a stroll through the city before dinner. Overnight in the hotel. (BB,D)

Day 7: The Madonie Park and Cefalù - Palermo

Breakfast at the hotel this morning, followed by a transfer to Polizzi, a small village 70 kilometres away from Palermo, surrounded by a cheerful countryside and green pastures. Polizzi lies in the Madonie Mountains Natural Park. This internal region between the Northern Coast and Central Sicily has a wealth of ancient small villages, where many people still live according to the Sicilian traditions.

Visit Polizzi Generosa, the ancient village rich in historical and artistic attractions, followed by a visit to the Park's Museum. During the walk through the town's medieval streets, you will have a break for a sampling of typical sweetmeats.  A special lunch will be prepared for you in a nice farm house or typical restaurant.

Departure to Cefalù in the afternoon, famous for its rich historical center (the Norman Cathedral and the medieval quarter) as well as for its beautiful beach and blue sea. You will go on a guided walking visit of the city and have free time to do shopping.

Return to the hotel, followed by a farewell dinner at a local, elegant restaurant room, "Le Absidi", where guests will enjoy superb and refined dishes based on typical recipes from local culinary traditions. Back to the hotel and overnight. (BB,L,D)

Day 8: Departure

Breakfast in hotel. Transfer to the Airport in Palermo, with assistance for check-in and departure.