Sicily Sea Land: A Comprehensive 7-Day Tour of Sicily’s East Coast

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you might have heard of the country’s vibrant and impressive island, Sicily. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural treasures, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. However, navigating Sicily’s vast size and unreliable public transportation can be a challenge for visitors. Fortunately, the Sicily Sea Land tour provides a seamless solution. This seven-day tour will allow you to explore the island’s east coast without the hassle of arranging transportation and lodging.

Overview of the Tour

The Sicily Sea Land tour is a unique opportunity to see the island’s top attractions and hidden gems with ease. The tour operates from a base located north of Catania, ensuring that you’re never too far from Sicily’s most famous coastal sights. During the seven-day tour, you’ll be exploring cultural treasures like Taormina and Acireale, as well as natural wonders like Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The tour’s itinerary streamlines your trip, giving you time to explore as many attractions as possible. You’ll be traveling by car, so you can skip the delays and hassle of Sicily’s public transport. Plus, you’ll have the full flexibility of a private customizable tour itinerary.

Highlights and What’s Included

The Sicily Sea Land tour covers a wide range of attractions, so you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience. Here are some highlights of what you can expect during the seven-day tour:

Day One: Arrival and Visiting Catania Underground

You’ll be meeting with the local PR at Catania Airport to begin your seven-day tour. The first stop will be a visit to Catania Underground, an ancient facility that dates back to the 17th century. The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the underground passages and cellars throughout the historic city center.

Day Two: Taormina and Alcantara Gorges

You’ll travel to Taormina, Sicily’s most picturesque town, to start the day’s adventure. Taormina is best known for its gorgeous architecture, as well as its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean. You’ll also visit Alcantara Gorges, a natural wonder located not far from Taormina.

Day Three: Mt. Etna and Wine Tasting

Mount Etna is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes and an adventure seekers paradise. You’ll be exploring the beautiful landscape of the volcano with a private English-speaking guide. During the tour, you’ll also stop by an excellent local winery where you can enjoy a wine tasting.

Day Four: Syracuse and Noto

Syracuse is a beautiful ancient city located along the coast, and it holds some of Sicily’s best-preserved Greek ruins. After exploring Syracuse, the tour moves on to Noto, a Sicilian hill town that’s also a cultural gem.

Day Five: Piazza Armerina and Ragusa Ibla

Piazza Armerina, famous for its charming character and historic architecture, is the tour’s first stop for the day. The highlight of the tour is the world-famous mosaic floors of Villa Romana del Casale to be seen there. Next up, you’ll visit Ragusa Ibla, a Baroque town in southeast Sicily.

Day Six: Acireale, Taormina

The sixth day begins with a trip to Acireale, a coastal town known for its beautiful Baroque architecture. After exploring Acireale, the tour moves back to Taormina to spend the day at a beach club.

Day Seven: Departure

On the last day, after breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Catania Airport for your onward journey.

What’s Included

The Sicily Sea Land tour has plenty of inclusions to ensure that your experience is the best it can be. Here’s what’s included: – Seven nights at a Mascali hotel within striking distance of all coastal attractions – Breakfast and lunch on three days of the tour – Fly fuel parkingscity tax – GST (Goods and Services Tax) – Private English-speaking guide – Private customizable itinerary – Private car What’s not included: – Entrances to ancient sites (e.g., Greek theater, Villa Romana del Casale, etc.) – Meals/drinks except for breakfast and lunch (3) – Insurance exc. – Tips

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in the Sicily Sea Land tour, you can book it on the Viator website. The tour has a flexible booking policy, making it easy to work around your schedule. To book, simply click here and select your preferred tour date. The booking process is straightforward and secure, and once you’ve made your reservation, you’ll receive detailed instructions on what to expect during your Sicily Sea Land tour.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sicily Sea Land tour packs a lot into seven days, allowing you to explore Sicily’s best coastal attractions and hidden cultural gems without any stressful logistics. With private transportation, customizable itineraries, and knowledgeable English-speaking guides, you’re guaranteed to experience the best that Sicily has to offer with ease. Book your tour today to experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and ancient history in one stunning destination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sicily

Sicily is one of the most unique and breathtaking travel destinations in the world. The island is steeped in history and culture, with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, picturesque seaside towns, and delicious cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, you likely have some questions about what to expect. This FAQ will help answer some of the most common inquiries about this stunning island.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Sicily?

The best time to visit Sicily is from May to June or from September to October. These months are considered the shoulder seasons and offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. If you’re planning on visiting during the summer months, be prepared for hot temperatures and crowded beaches.

2. What are some must-see sights in Sicily?

Sicily is home to a variety of must-see sights, including: – The ancient ruins of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento – The stunning Baroque architecture of Noto – The historic town of Taormina and the ancient Greek amphitheater – The beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters of Cefalù and San Vito lo Capo – The vibrant fish markets and street food in Palermo

3. What is the currency used in Sicily?

Sicily is a part of Italy and uses the euro as its currency.

4. What is the official language of Sicily?

The official language of Sicily is Italian, but many people also speak Sicilian, a distinct dialect that has its own vocabulary and grammar.

5. What is the food like in Sicily?

Sicilian cuisine is incredibly diverse and flavorful, influenced by the island’s rich history and cultural mix. Some must-try dishes include arancini (deep-fried rice balls), caponata (a vegetable relish), pasta alla Norma (pasta with fried eggplant), and cannoli (a sweet pastry filled with ricotta). Seafood is also a big part of the Sicilian diet thanks to the island’s location in the Mediterranean.

6. What is the transportation like in Sicily?

Sicily has a fairly extensive transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. However, many of the small towns and villages can be difficult to reach without a car. If you plan on exploring the island extensively, renting a car is recommended.

7. Are there any customs or etiquette rules to be aware of in Sicily?

Like many places in Italy, there are some customs and etiquette rules to be aware of in Sicily. These include: – Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites – Always greet people with a polite “buongiorno” (good morning) or “buonasera” (good evening) – Avoid being loud or boisterous in public spaces – Tipping is not expected, but leaving a small amount (such as rounding up the bill) is appreciated

8. What are some outdoor activities to do in Sicily?

Sicily is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular activities include hiking in the Zingaro Nature Reserve, exploring Mount Etna (one of the most active volcanoes in the world), and swimming and sunbathing on the island’s beautiful beaches.

9. Is it safe to travel to Sicily?

Overall, Sicily is a very safe destination for travelers. However, as with any place, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in larger cities like Palermo.

10. How do I get to Sicily?

Sicily is easily accessible by air, with direct flights from major cities throughout Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It’s also possible to get to Sicily by ferry from mainland Italy or other nearby islands.

11. What are some cultural festivals or events in Sicily?

Sicily has a rich calendar of cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Some popular festivals include: – The Infiorata di Noto (a flower festival held in May) – The Festa di Sant’Agata (a religious festival held in Catania in February) – The Festival of Greek Theatre (plays performed in ancient Greek at the ancient theater in Syracuse) – The Festival of Saint Rosalia (a religious procession held in Palermo in July)

12. What are some lesser-known destinations to visit in Sicily?

While the major sights in Sicily are certainly worth seeing, there are also plenty of lesser-known destinations that offer their own unique charm. Some of these include: – The hilltop town of Erice, known for its stunning views and medieval atmosphere – The seaside town of Marzamemi, with its picturesque harbor and excellent seafood – The ancient ruins of Selinunte, which are less crowded than the Valley of the Temples – The fishing village of Scopello, with its beautiful rocky coastline and charming town center Sicily is an incredibly diverse and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or the great outdoors, you’re sure to be captivated by this stunning island.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Sicily

Sicily is an enchanting island that has numerous attractions for visitors. It offers stunning views, historic towns, delicious food, and much more. There’s something for everyone in Sicily, making it the perfect place to vacation. If you’re planning a trip to Sicily and want to make the most of it, this guide is for you. Here are some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Sicily.

1. Explore the Historic Towns

Sicily has several historic towns that are worth visiting. Among them, Taormina stands out due to its picturesque location and ancient ruins. You can visit the Greek-Roman theater, stroll through the city’s streets, or check out the quaint shops and cafes. Another historic town worth visiting is Syracuse, which was once a thriving Greek city. Here, you can see the famous Ear of Dionysius, or visit the impressive archaeological park.

2. Visit the Beaches

Sicily has some of the best beaches in Italy, with crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery. There are several beaches to choose from, each with its own unique charm. Some of the best beaches include San Vito Lo Capo, Marzamemi, and Scala dei Turchi. Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, or simply relax, you’re sure to find the perfect beach in Sicily.

3. Indulge in the Local Cuisine

Sicily is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Greek and Arab cultures. Some of the must-try dishes include arancini, a type of fried rice ball, and cannoli, a pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream. You can also try fresh seafood, such as swordfish or tuna, in any of the local restaurants. To accompany your meals, be sure to sample some of the local wines and liqueurs, such as Marsala or limoncello.

4. Take a Scenic Drive

Another great way to see Sicily is by taking a scenic drive along the coast. The roads offer panoramic views of the coastline and mountains, making for an unforgettable experience. One of the most scenic drives is from Taormina to Catania, where you can see Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. The drive from Palermo to Cefalù is also beautiful, with stunning views of the sea and countryside.

5. Visit Mount Etna

Mount Etna is located in the eastern part of Sicily and is one of the island’s most popular attractions. You can take a guided tour of the volcano or explore it on your own. The lush forests and lunar-like landscape make for a unique and unforgettable experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike to the summit and take in the breathtaking views.

6. Go on a Wine Tour

Sicily is home to several vineyards that produce high-quality wines. You can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the wine-making process while sampling some of the best wines the island has to offer. Some of the popular wine regions include Etna DOC, Marsala DOC, and Vittoria DOCG. You can also visit any of the wine bars in the cities to sample different wines while enjoying a snack.

7. See the Temples of Agrigento

The Temples of Agrigento are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most impressive ancient Greek ruins in the world. The temples date back to the 5th century BC and are located on a hill overlooking the sea. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the temples or explore them on your own. The Temple of Concordia is one of the most well-preserved temples and is especially impressive.

Book Your Tour Now

Sicily is a beautiful island that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or cuisine, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. From exploring historic towns to lounging on the beach, from indulging in local cuisine to taking a scenic drive, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in Sicily. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Sicily for yourself!