Sicilian Escape with Malta
Sicilian Escape with Malta
$2078
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Sicily and Malta with the "Sicilian Escape with Malta" tour. Begin your adventure in Palermo, where you'll explore the Church of Immacolata and the Norman Cathedral in Monreale. Discover the ancient wonders of Agrigento's Valley of Temples and marvel at the Roman mosaics in Piazza Armerina. In Syracuse, delve into the Greek and Roman ruins before savoring Sicily's culinary delights in Catania. Experience the natural beauty of Mount Etna and the charm of Taormina Riviera. Fly to Malta for a scenic walk through La Valletta's Barakka Gardens and enjoy free time in St. Julian. Conclude your journey with an excursion to Rabat, Mosta, and the "Silent City" of Mdina, where history and culture come alive. With a blend of guided tours and free exploration, this tour offers a perfect balance of discovery and relaxation. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Palermo,Italy
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: Garibaldi
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Palermo! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Palermo
Location: Palermo, Monreale
Accommodation Name: Central Palace Hotel Federico II
Meals Included: Breakfast
PALERMO Sicilian Specialties PALERMO Guided sightseeing includes the Church of Immacolata, and a visit to the cathedral. Drive up to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and visit the Norman Cathedral. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The story of the splendid Monreale cathedral starts when the Arabs took control of Palermo. They transformed the cathedral into a mosque and banished the Bishop of Palermo from town. Not wishing to venture too far from his beloved cathedral, the Bishop settled in a small village in the hills overlooking Palermo, the site of modern-day Monreale. There, he built a modest church to keep the flame of local Christian worship alive. Today the cathedral is known for its stunning mosaics that cover an area of over 64.500sq ft.
Day 3: Palermo,Agrigento
Location: Palermo, Agrigento
Accommodation Name: Della Valle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
PALERMO–AGRIGENTO Timeless Temples AGRIGENTO Take a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples. (B,D) 87 mi / 140 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGY The ruins of Akragas remain Sicily's most amazing archaeological site. The impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia sits in spectacular setting upon a ridge where it served as a beacon for homecoming sailors and today draws enthralled visitors to revel in the remarkable Valley of the Temples.
Day 4: Agrigento,Piazza Armerina,Syracuse
Location: Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Syracuse
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Villa Politi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
AGRIGENTO–PIAZZA ARMERINA–SYRACUSE Ancient Artistry In Sicily PIAZZA ARMERINA Take a guided visit of the Villa Romana del Casale with the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Enjoy lunch with regional specialties at a local restaurant. (B,L) 162 mi / 260 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Explore the extraordinary example of Roman power in one of the most luxurious villas of its kind in the Italian countryside. Marvel at the magnificently preserved mosaics that embellish the Villa Romana del Casale, designed and installed by African mosaic workers and the strength of the Roman influence and power throughout the Mediterranean region.
Day 5: Syracuse,Catania,Taormina Riviera
Location: Syracuse, Catania, Taormina
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
SYRACUSE–CATANIA–TAORMINA RIVIERA Coastal Treasures SYRACUSE Guided visit to the Greek and Roman ruins of the Archaeological Park features the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater.
CATANIA [LF] Arancino tasting and free time on the way to Taormina Riviera. (B) 75 mi / 120 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Sicily’s love affair with food goes back a long way. Cooking traditions originating from the Greeks, Arabs, and Normans blend with those from Spain and North Africa resulting in a fabulous melting pot of flavors and unique dishes. Celebrate this feast of cultures with a traditional arancino tasting one of Sicily’s most famous street food.
Day 6: Taormina Riviera
Location: Mount Etna, Taormina
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
TAORMINA RIVIERA The Pearl of the Mediterranean TAORMINA RIVIERA Guided excursion to Mount Etna. Orientation walk through Taormina town and free time. Dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDER Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano and one of the most active in the world. Learn how in 1669, an eruption that lasted 112 days developed a record long stream of lava that destroyed the city of Catania.
Day 7: Catania-La Valletta,Malta,St. Julian
Location: Catania, La Valletta, St. Julian
Accommodation Name: Mercure St. Julian's Malta
Meals Included: Breakfast
CATANIA-LA VALLETTA, MALTA–ST. JULIAN Gardens and a Grand Harbor CATANIA Fly to La Valletta airport.
LA VALLETTA Orientation walk includes the Barakka Gardens. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Welcome to the marvelous sights of Malta with an overnight stay in St. Julian. Named for the patron Saint that bears his name, this seaside town is rich with history and lovely views of the rocky stretch along the promenade.
Day 8: St. Julian
Location: St. Julian's, Gozo
Accommodation Name: Mercure St. Julian's Malta
Meals Included: Breakfast
ST. JULIAN Home of Giants
ST. JULIAN Free day to explore the city. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with a visit to the little island of Gozo, home to the oldest freestanding structures in the world: the 5,500-year-old complex of the Ggantija Temples. Locals claim the site was built by giants, hence the name “Ggantija.”
Day 9: St. Julian: Excursion To Rabat-Mosta & Mdina
Location: Rabat, Mosta, Mdina
Accommodation Name: Mercure St. Julian's Malta
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
ST. JULIAN: EXCURSION TO RABAT-MOSTA & MDINA Catacombs & Silent Cities
RABAT Stop in the city famous for its catacombs
MOSTA Take pictures of the stunning Roman Catholic church with a unique architectural history.
MDINA Walk through the “Silent City” and take in views of the ancient walls.
Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM When the capital city was moved out of Mdina, the city was left uninhabited so people started to consider it a ghost town and the “silent city” nickname was born. This name is still fitting today as there are many signs around the city urging to be silent and no cars are allowed in the city.
Day 10: St. Julian
Location: St. Julian's
Accommodation Name: Mercure St. Julian's Malta
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Guided Sightseeing in Palermo
Guided sightseeing in Palermo includes the Church of Immacolata and a visit to the cathedral.
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Visit to Monreale
Drive up to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and visit the Norman Cathedral.
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Guided Walking Tour of the Valley of Temples
Take a guided walking tour of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento.
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Guided Visit of Villa Romana del Casale
Take a guided visit of the Villa Romana del Casale with the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world.
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Guided Visit to Archaeological Park in Syracuse
Guided visit to the Greek and Roman ruins of the Archaeological Park features the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater.
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Arancino Tasting in Catania
Enjoy an arancino tasting and free time on the way to Taormina Riviera.
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Guided Excursion to Mount Etna
Guided excursion to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano.
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Orientation Walk in La Valletta
Orientation walk in La Valletta includes the Barakka Gardens.
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Excursion to Rabat, Mosta, and Mdina
Excursion includes a stop in Rabat, a visit to the Roman Catholic church in Mosta, and a walk through Mdina.
What's Not Included
High Altitude Challenges
High altitudes may be challenging for some guests, especially during the ascent to Mount Etna.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes a flight from Catania to La Valletta, Malta, ensuring a seamless transition between the stunning landscapes of Sicily and the historic charm of Malta.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and elegance with stays at Garibaldi and Central Palace Hotel Federico II in Palermo, Della Valle in Agrigento, Grand Hotel Villa Politi in Syracuse, Hellenia Yachting Hotel in Taormina Riviera, and Mercure St. Julian's Malta.
Meals
9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinner
Notes
High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. The ascent to Mount Etna reaches an elevation of 6,500 ft. (1,981 m).
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds. ...more ...less
UNESCO Sites
Arab-Norman cathedral of Monreale|Archeological area of Agrigento|City of Valletta|Mount Etna|Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica|Villa Romana del Casale (Piazza Armerina)
Check out our Q&As
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What is the highlight of the visit to Monreale?
The highlight of the visit to Monreale is the Norman Cathedral, known for its stunning mosaics that cover an area of over 64,500 square feet. The cathedral has a rich history, having been transformed into a mosque by the Arabs before being restored to a Christian place of worship. ...more ...less
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What can I expect during the guided tour of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento?
During the guided tour of the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, you will explore Sicily's most amazing archaeological site, including the impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia, which sits on a ridge and served as a beacon for homecoming sailors.
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What unique experience is offered in Piazza Armerina?
In Piazza Armerina, you will have a guided visit to the Villa Romana del Casale, which houses the largest and most complex collection of Roman mosaics in the world. The villa is an extraordinary example of Roman power and luxury, with mosaics designed by African mosaic workers. ...more ...less
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What is special about the visit to Syracuse's Archaeological Park?
The visit to Syracuse's Archaeological Park includes a guided tour of the Greek and Roman ruins, featuring the Greek Theatre and the Roman Amphitheater, showcasing the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area.
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What culinary experience is included on the way to Taormina Riviera?
On the way to Taormina Riviera, you will enjoy an arancino tasting, which is a traditional Sicilian street food. This experience highlights Sicily's diverse culinary influences from the Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and North Africans.
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What can I expect from the excursion to Mount Etna?
The excursion to Mount Etna includes a guided tour of Europe's tallest and one of the most active volcanoes. You will learn about its history, including the 1669 eruption that lasted 112 days and produced a record-long stream of lava.
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What is the significance of the Barakka Gardens in La Valletta?
The Barakka Gardens in La Valletta are part of the orientation walk in Malta. They offer a historic spot with marvelous views, providing a serene and picturesque setting in the heart of the city.
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What is the 'Silent City' and why is it called that?
The 'Silent City' refers to Mdina, which earned its nickname after the capital was moved, leaving it largely uninhabited. Today, it remains a quiet place with no cars allowed, and visitors are encouraged to maintain silence to preserve its tranquil atmosphere.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Sicilian Escape with Malta
10 Days Starting in Palermo, Italy and ending in St. Julian, Malta
Visiting: Palermo, Monreale, Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Syracuse, Catania, Taormina, Mount Etna, La Valletta, St. Julian, St. Julian's, Gozo, Rabat, Mosta, Mdina ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
KIM-2026
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
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