Travelers departing from the United States and Canada begin their overnight flight to southern Italy today, arriving in Catania, Italy the following day.

Upon arrival at Catania International Airport, you'll be greeted and transferred by private driver beautiful countryside hotel near Noto, surrounded by rolling vineyards, olive groves, and the sun-drenched landscapes of southeastern Sicily. This tranquil rural setting provides the perfect place to relax after your journey while serving as an ideal base for exploring the region's remarkable history, charming villages, and spectacular coastline over the coming days.

After time to settle in and unwind, we'll gather this evening for a festive welcome dinner featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine, local wines, and warm hospitality—the perfect beginning to our Italian adventure together. Overnight near Noto

Today promises to be one of the most memorable experiences of our journey.

After breakfast, we'll set out to explore Syracuse, one of the Mediterranean's greatest ancient cities and once among the most powerful centers of the Greek world. Rich in history and beautifully situated along the Ionian Sea, Syracuse offers a captivating blend of ancient civilizations, Baroque elegance, and vibrant Sicilian life.

Our guided tour begins on the enchanting island of Ortigia, the historic heart of the city. We'll wander through its charming maze of narrow streets and elegant piazzas, admire magnificent Baroque architecture, visit the impressive Cathedral built upon the remains of an ancient Greek temple, and stroll the picturesque waterfront lined with cafés, fishing boats, and sweeping sea views. Along the way, there will be opportunities to browse artisan shops and soak in the lively atmosphere that makes Ortigia one of Sicily's most beloved destinations.

We'll return to our peaceful countryside retreat in the late afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before gathering this evening for a delightful group dinner at our resort, featuring another opportunity to savor the fresh flavors and warm hospitality of southeastern Sicily.

Overnight near Noto

Today we journey south to the picturesque fishing village of Marzamemi, one of Sicily's most charming seaside communities. With its colorful blue shutters, lively piazzas, historic tuna fishery, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, it's easy to see why this hidden gem has become a favorite among Sicilians.

From here we'll board our private boat for a leisurely cruise along the beautiful southeastern coastline, enjoying spectacular views from the water and a delicious lunch served on board.

Returning to shore, you'll have free time to wander Marzamemi's inviting streets, browse artisan shops, or relax with an afternoon aperitivo overlooking the sea before we return to our countryside resort. This evening, we'll gather for another delightful group dinner, enjoying the flavors of southeastern Sicily in the peaceful surroundings of our resort—a wonderful way to reflect on another memorable day along Sicily's spectacular coast.

Overnight in near Noto

Today we explore the beautiful countryside surrounding our resort, where rolling vineyards and fertile farmland produce some of Sicily's finest wines and culinary treasures. We'll visit one of the island's celebrated wineries for a guided tasting and leisurely lunch, discovering the distinctive character of the region's wines while savoring exceptional local cuisine in a picturesque setting.

This afternoon we'll travel just a short distance into Noto, the magnificent Baroque jewel of southeastern Sicily. Rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, Noto is renowned for its honey-colored limestone architecture, elegant palaces, grand churches, and beautifully designed streetscape that has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

Enjoy free time to stroll Corso Vittorio Emanuele, browse charming boutiques, admire the city's magnificent architecture, or indulge in a sweet treat at the legendary Caffè Sicilia, celebrated throughout Italy for its extraordinary pastries, granita, and traditional Sicilian desserts.

This evening we'll return to our countryside resort for another delightful group dinner, sharing one last evening together in the peaceful surroundings of southeastern Sicily before continuing our journey north tomorrow.

Overnight near Noto

Today we leave behind the rolling vineyards and Baroque landscapes of southeastern Sicily as we journey north toward one of Europe's most extraordinary natural wonders—Mount Etna, the continent's highest and most active volcano.

The fertile volcanic soils surrounding Etna produce some of Italy's most distinctive wines. We'll visit a local winery to enjoy a tasting and leisurely lunch while discovering how these unique volcanic vineyards create wines unlike any others, offering a fascinating contrast to those sampled earlier in the week.

Later this afternoon we continue to the beautiful seaside town of Giardini Naxos, nestled along the Ionian coast beneath the dramatic backdrop of Taormina. After checking into our hotel, you'll have time to relax by the sea, stroll along the waterfront promenade, or simply unwind before tomorrow's adventure. Overnight in Giardini Naxos

This morning we visit Taormina, Sicily's most celebrated resort town. Perched high above the Ionian Sea, Taormina has enchanted travelers for centuries with its breathtaking views, elegant streets, charming piazzas, colorful gardens, and magnificent ancient Greek Theatre overlooking Mount Etna.

Enjoy free time to browse the boutiques, linger over lunch at a sidewalk café, or simply soak in the unforgettable atmosphere before returning to Giardini Naxos.

This evening we'll welcome the rest of our travelers as we gather for the festive opening dinner of our Calabria journey