Sicily in Depth - With 6-Day Malta Option, Classic Group
Sicily in Depth - With 6-Day Malta Option, Classic Group
Sicily in Depth - With 6-Day Malta Option, Classic Group
14 Days Starting in Palermo and ending in Valletta
Visiting: Palermo, Trapani, Marsala, Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Ragusa, Modica, Syracuse, Giardini Naxos, Catania, Sliema, Valletta, Mdina
Tour operator:
Tour Overview
See every slice of Sicily during this 14-day guided tour. Take off to Paradise Quarry in Syracuse with a Local Expert, who will show you its Ear of Dionysius, an ear-shaped limestone grotto: call out to your fellow travellers here, and your voice may echo as many as 16 times. Visit the Palatine Chapel to marvel at the glittering gold mosaics for a stunning sight. Travel to the salt pans and windmills on the western coast and taste Marsala wine in its home town. In Taormina, perched above the Ionian Sea, join a Local Expert at the city’s cliffside Greek theatre, from where you can see Mount Etna, the island’s active Strato volcano.Venture from your waterfront hotel in Sliema to the capital of Malta. In Valletta, meet a Local Expert who will guide you through the Fortress City, filled with golden-hued buildings and anchored by St. John's Cathedral. Later, in Mdina, join a Local Expert on a walk through the fortified Silent City, nicknamed for its peaceful atmosphere. Then, toast to an incredible journey during a final celebration dinner with your fellow travellers.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Palermo
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: NH Palermo
Relax and settle in before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Palermo & The Golden Age Of The Normans
Location: Palermo
Accommodation Name: NH Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Discover Palermo through Insight Choice. Opt for a walking tour featuring the stunning 12th century Palatine Chapel with a Local Expert. Alternatively, engage in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on the Anti-Mafia tour, learning about modern efforts to combat organized crime in Palermo. This afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring Palermo Cathedral, a fascinating site with its unique blend of architectural styles reflecting centuries of history. For your dining pleasure, you can try the foods the locals like to eat and experience how they like to eat it on your Dine-Around Evening.
Day 3: Trapani And Marsala
Location: Palermo, Trapani, Marsala
Accommodation: Seawater, Marsala
Accommodation Name: Seawater, Marsala
Meals Included: Breakfast
Nestled along its crescent-shaped coastline, Trapani is embraced by the Mediterranean Sea. Discover the age-old tradition of salt production when you visit the colorful salt pans and an ancient stone windmill during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to see where sea water is transformed into salt crystals. Then, savor the flavors of Marsala with a tasting at a local winery, where you’ll enjoy the town’s renowned wine amidst beautiful surroundings.
Day 4: Explore The Valley Of The Temples
Location: Palermo, Agrigento
Accommodation: The Scala dei Turchi Resort, Agrigento
Accommodation Name: The Scala dei Turchi Resort, Agrigento
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel along the southern coast of Sicily en route to Agrigento. In Agrigento, explore the Valley of the Temples with a Local Expert. Recognized by UNESCO, these temples are exceptional examples of ancient Greek architecture. Marvel at the imposing Temple of Concordia and the cliff-top Temple of Juno, both overlooking the sea. Reflect on this unforgettable day with your fellow travelers over dinner at the hotel, sharing insights and experiences.
Day 5: Discover Villa Romana Del Casale And Ragusa
Location: Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Ragusa
Accommodation: Mediterraneo Palace, Ragusa
Accommodation Name: Mediterraneo Palace, Ragusa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel inland to the Villa Romana del Casale, a luxurious Roman villa renowned for its rich and intricate mosaics. This UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized since 1997, showcases the opulence of ancient Rome. Continue to Ragusa and explore the labyrinthine alleyways of Ragusa Ibla with your Local Expert. This town, with origins dating back to the Bronze Age, was inhabited by the Sicels tribe, who lent their name to Sicily. Admire the significant Sicilian Baroque architecture that has earned Ragusa UNESCO recognition.
Day 6: Modica Relaxed Start
Location: Ragusa, Modica, Ragusa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a Relaxed Start this morning or join an Optional Experience to the Val di Noto and the town of Noto. Later discover Modica's artisanal techniques used to create the town's celebrated handmade chocolate.
Day 7: Ancient Syracuse
Location: Ragusa, Syracuse, Giardini Naxos
Accommodation Name: Delta by Marriott Giardini
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sightseeing with your Local Expert begins at Syracuse’s Paradise Quarry, home to the unique Ear of Dionysius, an ear-shaped grotto with remarkable acoustics. Next, visit the impressive Greek theatre, carved from solid rock, and one of the largest of the ancient world. Take time to explore the atmospheric Old City on the island of Ortygia, a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with palaces. This historic area is where the famed mathematician Archimedes famously ran through the streets, exclaiming 'Eureka!' Continue your journey along Sicily’s picturesque Ionian Riviera to the charming town of Giardini Naxos.
Day 8: Taormina And The Dawn Coast Of Europe
Location: Giardini Naxos
Accommodation: RG Naxos Hotel, Taormina
Accommodation Name: Delta by Marriott Giardini
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your hotel faces east, offering early risers a glimpse of why D.H. Lawrence dubbed this 'The Dawn Coast of Europe.' After breakfast, consider an Optional Experience through the vineyards to Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Journey to the charming old town of Taormina, perched on Mount Tauro with views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. With your Local Expert, visit the ancient Greek theatre, set on a cliff and open to the sky. Sit and absorb the breath-taking view through the crumbling arches to Mount Etna. Stroll along the elegant Corso Umberto and enjoy panoramic views from Piazza IX Aprile. Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, featuring delicious, freshly prepared Farm-to-Table cuisine and exquisite Italian wines.
Day 9: Fly From Catania To Malta
Location: Catania, Sliema
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
During your transfer to Catania airport, appreciate the vistas of Mount Etna one last time. Board your short flight to Malta where on arrival you will be met and taken to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and settle into your hotel. Join your Travel Director at 18:30 for dinner.
Day 10: Free Time In Sliema Relaxed Start
Location: Sliema
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day is at leisure. You may want to explore the World Heritage Site of Haġar Qim and Mnajdra temples before proceeding to the idyllic fishing village of Marsaxlokk, enjoy a stroll around the many market stalls whilst admiring the colourful ‘luzzu’ fishing boats in the harbour.
Day 11: Explore Valetta Relaxed Start
Location: Sliema, Valletta, Sliema
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
With a Local Expert, you’ll visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the impressive St. John's Cathedral, designed in a baroque fashion. Find yourself captivated by the abundance of history as you walk through the elegant streets to see why it is named The Fortress City with its restored golden-stone buildings that mould the cityscape.For lunch feast on a delicious meal made from fresh local ingredients.This afternoon visit the National War Museum. Learn about Malta’s important role in WWII while exploring with a historian.
Day 12: Free Day In Malta
Location: Sliema
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free for you to relax at leisure on the rooftop terrace. Perhaps take a relaxing stroll along the promenade lined with restaurants and bars. If you’re feeling active, why not take an Optional Experience with lunch on Gozo Island? Calypso Cave, found on the island, is said to be the one Homer wrote about in his acclaimed epic poem, The Odyssey.
Day 13: Mdina The Silent City
Location: Sliema, Mdina, Sliema
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head to Mdina with a Local Expert to explore this golden city, known also as the silent city for its shady streets and peaceful atmosphere. Experience Palazzo Falson on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Return to the coast for an afternoon at leisure. This evening, enjoy dinner at a wonderful local restaurant where you’ll toast to your trip with your fellow travelers.
Day 14: Depart Malta
Location: Sliema
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful island and your fellow travellers, as a transfer takes you to Malta International Airport for your onward journey.
Check out our Q&As
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026
Friday - Thursday
Apr 18, 2025 - May 01, 2025Friday - Thursday
Apr 25, 2025 - May 08, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 02, 2025 - May 15, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 09, 2025 - May 22, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 16, 2025 - May 29, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 23, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025Friday - Thursday
May 30, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jun 06, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jun 20, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 17, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025Friday - Thursday
Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 14, 2025Friday - Thursday
Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 25, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025Friday - Thursday
Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025Friday - Thursday
Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025Friday - Thursday
Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 23, 2025Friday - Thursday
Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 30, 2025Friday - Thursday
Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025Friday - Thursday
Nov 14, 2025 - Nov 27, 2025Friday - Thursday
Nov 28, 2025 - Dec 11, 2025Friday - Thursday
Dec 12, 2025 - Dec 25, 2025Friday - Thursday
Jan 09, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jan 23, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026Friday - Thursday
Feb 06, 2026 - Feb 19, 2026Friday - Thursday
Feb 20, 2026 - Mar 05, 2026Friday - Thursday
Mar 06, 2026 - Mar 19, 2026Friday - Thursday
Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 02, 2026Friday - Thursday
Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 16, 2026Friday - Thursday
Apr 17, 2026 - Apr 30, 2026Friday - Thursday
Apr 24, 2026 - May 07, 2026Friday - Thursday
May 01, 2026 - May 14, 2026Friday - Thursday
May 08, 2026 - May 21, 2026Friday - Thursday
May 15, 2026 - May 28, 2026Friday - Thursday
May 22, 2026 - Jun 04, 2026Friday - Thursday
May 29, 2026 - Jun 11, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jun 05, 2026 - Jun 18, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jun 19, 2026 - Jul 02, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jun 26, 2026 - Jul 09, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jul 03, 2026 - Jul 16, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jul 17, 2026 - Jul 30, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jul 24, 2026 - Aug 06, 2026Friday - Thursday
Jul 31, 2026 - Aug 13, 2026Friday - Thursday
Aug 14, 2026 - Aug 27, 2026Friday - Thursday
Aug 21, 2026 - Sep 03, 2026Friday - Thursday
Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 17, 2026Friday - Thursday
Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 24, 2026Friday - Thursday
Sep 18, 2026 - Oct 01, 2026Friday - Thursday
Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 08, 2026Friday - Thursday
Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 15, 2026Friday - Thursday
Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 22, 2026Friday - Thursday
Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 29, 2026Friday - Thursday
Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 05, 2026Book with Confidence
-
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.
-
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.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.