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Genius Travel

The Soul of Sicily

From Ancient Greek Colonies to the Volcanoes of the Mediterranean

One island. Many civilizations.
A crossing filled with history, light, and the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean.

There are journeys you simply take.
And there are journeys that move you—not only across the map, but through time.

The Soul of Sicily belongs to the latter.

It begins with The Greek heritage of Syracuse,
Winds through the narrow streets of Ortygia,
And reaches the cosmopolitan town of Taormina,
Where history meets the light.

At its core, η Mount Etna is more than just a volcano —
it is a living reminder of nature’s extraordinary power.

From colorful Palermo to villages that seem untouched by time,
Sicily unfolds like a collection of images that never fade.

Contrasts. Civilizations. Authenticity.
A journey that cannot be described — it can only be experienced.

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Travel Identity

  • Duration:6 days 5 nights
  • Tour Type:Smart
  • Departures:Every Sunday — July & August 2026
  • Flights with Aegean Airlines:Direct flights: Athens – Catania
  • Season:Summer — Ideal temperatures, Turquoise waters & a lively mediterranean atmosphere
  • Group Size:Up to 30 persons — balanced experience without the feel of mass tourism
  • Accommodation:Carefully selected 4* hotels, chosen for their quality and prime locations.
  • Experiences:Syracuse, Ortigia, Taormina, Palermo, Monreale, Erice, Agrigento & Mount Etna.
  • Transportation:Private coach exclusively for the group
  • Genius Care:Full civil liability coverage and organised assistance throughout the journey
Sicily, as it was meant to be experienced.
A journey that brings together civilizations, eras, and landscapes
into a complete travel experience, crafted by Genius Travel.

Experiences that make this trip special

  • The Greek Soul of Sicily
  • Syracuse & Ortygia—where Ancient Greece meets the Mediterranean way of life.
  • Cosmopolitan Taormina
  • Overlooking the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, in one of Italy's most iconic towns.
  • Authentic Palermo
  • Vibrant neighbourhoods, rich history, and everyday life full of character.
  • Byzantine & Norman Heritage
  • Monreale—home to extraordinary mosaics and architecture of exceptional beauty.
  • Medieval Erice
  • A charming stone-built hilltop town with breathtaking views.
  • The Valley of the Temples
  • Agrigento—one of the Mediterranean's most important archaeological sites.
  • The Power of Mount Etna
  • Europe's largest active volcano and a landscape unlike any other.
  • Landscapes & Contrasts
  • From historic towns to wild nature and the Mediterranean coastline.

The trip day by day

Day 1 — From Athens to Sicily & First Impressions of Catania

 

Your first encounter with Sicily.

The journey begins with a flight from Athens to Catania, on Sicily's eastern coast, framed by the Ionian Sea and the imposing presence of Mount Etna.

Upon arrival, we begin our exploration of the city—one of Italy's liveliest and most authentic destinations, nestled at the foot of the volcano.

We explore the historic centre, where we'll visit the Piazza del Duomo and the iconic Elephant Fountain, the city's symbol, carved from the black lava of Mount Etna.

Our journey continues with the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Agatha, dedicated to Catania's patron saint, and the impressive Castello Ursino, a remarkable 13th-century medieval castle.

The first day comes to a relaxed close, leaving us with the feeling that the journey has only just begun.

ACCOMMODATION
Catania
MEALS
GENIUS MOMENT
A leisurely stroll through Catania's historic centre with Mount Etna glowing at sunset.

Day 2 — Syracuse & Ortygia: The Greek Soul of Sicily

The Greek Soul of Sicily.

After breakfast, we depart for Syracuse, one of the most important Greek cities of antiquity and a place of immense historical and cultural significance.

Our experience begins at the Neapolis Archaeological Park, where we'll visit the imposing Altar of Hieron II, the remarkable "Ear of Dionysius" in the Latomia del Paradiso, the ancient Greek Theatre, and the Roman Amphitheatre—monuments that reflect the city's power and prosperity in ancient times.

We then continue to Ortygia, the historic heart of Syracuse—an island filled with atmosphere, history, and Mediterranean elegance.
As we stroll through its narrow streets, we'll discover the Temple of Apollo, Archimedes Square (Piazza Archimede) with the Fountain of Artemis, and the magnificent Cathedral of Syracuse, built upon the ancient Temple of Athena.
Our tour continues with the Basilica of Saint Lucia and concludes at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia's most iconic landmarks.
Enjoy some free time to soak up the city's unique atmosphere at your own pace.

ACCOMMODATION
Catania
MEALS
Breakfast
GENIUS MOMENT
An evening stroll through Ortygia at sunset, overlooking the Ionian Sea and stepping into another era.

Day 3 — From Taormina to Palermo, Through Sicily's Landscapes

From cosmopolitan Taormina to the shores of northern Sicily.

After breakfast, we depart for Taormina, one of Sicily's most spectacular and atmospheric towns, perched above the Ionian Sea with breathtaking views of Mount Etna.

Passing through Porta Messina, we explore the historic centre, discovering the Palazzo Corvaja, the ancient Greek Theatre with its magnificent panoramic views, and, strolling along Corso Umberto, we arrive at the iconic Piazza IX Aprile.

We then continue to Cefalù, one of Sicily's most picturesque seaside towns, where the pace slows down and the island reveals its authentic character.

In the heart of the town, we'll visit Piazza Duomo and the magnificent Cefalù Cathedral, renowned for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics.

Later in the afternoon, we arrive in Palermo, the capital of Sicily — a city of striking contrasts, rich history, and vibrant energy, ιστορία

Enjoy some free time for your first introduction to the city.

ACCOMMODATION
Palermo
MEALS
Breakfast
GENIUS MOMENT
νιThe breathtaking view from Taormina's ancient Greek Theatre, overlooking Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.

Day 4 — Palermo & Monreale: Byzantine Art and Norman Heritage

Palermo & Monreale — where civilizations coexist.

After breakfast, we depart for Monreale, a hilltop town overlooking Palermo, home to one of Europe's most remarkable cathedrals.

The magnificent Monreale Cathedral, adorned with breathtaking Byzantine mosaics covering thousands of square metres, is a masterpiece of art and architecture and one of the Mediterranean's greatest cultural treasures.

Returning to Palermo, we begin our exploration of the city—a vibrant capital of striking contrasts, rich history, and a unique cultural identity.

During our tour, we'll visit the Royal Palace, the Palermo Cathedral, Piazza Pretoria with its famous "Fountain of Shame",and the Church of Martorana, renowned for its exceptional mosaics.

Our experience continues at the magnificent Teatro Massimo and Garibaldi Square, landmarks that showcase the city's vibrant character.

The afternoon is yours to explore Palermo at your own pace.

ACCOMMODATION
Palermo
MEALS
Breakfast
GENIUS MOMENT
The first glimpse of Monreale's golden mosaics—one of the Mediterranean's most extraordinary artistic treasures.

Day 5 — Erice & Agrigento: Medieval Charm and Ancient Grandeur

From medieval tranquillity to the grandeur of antiquity.

After breakfast, we depart for Erice, an atmospheric hilltop town perched on Mount San Giuliano, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Walking through its cobbled streets, past stone buildings and medieval walls, we discover a place that seems untouched by time.

We'll visit the Castle of Venus, built by the Normans, as well as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta,while the town's unique atmosphere offers an authentic glimpse of medieval Sicily.

We then continue to Agrigento, one of the most important Greek colonies of Magna Graecia.

Right here, awaits the spectacular Valley of the Temples, one of Europe's most iconic archaeological sites.

Our tour includes the Temple of Hera, the remarkably preserved Temple of Concordia, as well as the temples of Hercules, Zeus, the Dioscuri and Hephaestus.

ACCOMMODATION
Agrigento
MEALS
Breakfast & Dinner
GENIUS MOMENT
A walk through the Valley of the Temples as the light bathes the ancient temples

Day 6 — Mount Etna & Return: A Memorable Farewell

The power of nature before the journey home..

After breakfast, we depart for Mount Etna, the largest and highest active volcano in Europe — a unique landscape where raw natural beauty meets extraordinary power.

Its volcanic terrain, shaped by lava flows, rugged rock formations, and distinctive geology, creates scenery unlike anywhere else in the Mediterranean.

Enjoy some free time to take in the surroundings and experience this remarkable place up close.

We then transfer to Catania Airport for our return flight to Athens.

A journey filled with unforgettable landscapes, history, and experiences comes to an end, leaving memories that will stay with you long after you've returned home.

MEALS
Breakfast
GENIUS MOMENT
The Mount Etna experience—a breathtaking landscape that provides the perfect finale to an unforgettable journey.

Everything we've arranged for you

  • Accommodation & Comfort
  • Selected 4-star hotels in prime locations
  • Daily breakfast at the hotels
  • Dinner in Agrigento
  • Transportation & Travel Arrangements
  • Round-trip flights: Thessaloniki – Athens – Catania
  • Airport taxes, fuel surcharges, hotel city taxes & checkpoint fees
  • All transfers, sightseeing tours and excursions as per the itinerary
  • Experiences & Guided Tours
  • Guided tours of Syracuse, Ortygia, Taormina, Palermo, Monreale & Agrigento
  • Visit to Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano
  • Support & Peace of Mind
  • Experienced tour leader throughout the journey
  • Public liability insurance
  • Everything Taken Care Of
  • Fully organised travel experience by Genius Travel
  • Entrance Fees & Local Experiences
  • Admission to Mount Etna (cable car, approximately €52)
  • Entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites and attractions where applicable (indicative prices: Agrigento ~€17, Syracuse ~€13, Monreale Cathedral ~€8)
  • Personal Expenses
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional Services
  • Optional travel insurance
  • Other
  • Anything not explicitly listed under Included

Everything you want to know before your trip

How many days does the trip to Sicily last?

The itinerary lasts 6 days and is carefully designed to help you discover Sicily's highlights at a comfortable pace, without feeling rushed.

From which city does the tour depart?

The tour departs from Athens, with direct Aegean Airlines flights to Catania.

Which destinations are included in the itinerary?

The itinerary includes Catania, Syracuse, Ortygia, Taormina, Cefalù, Palermo, Monreale, Erice, Agrigento, and Mount Etna.

Are flights included in the price?

Yes. Round-trip flights with Aegean Airlines, along with airport taxes and fuel surcharges, are included in the price.

What luggage is included?

Each passenger is entitled to 1 personal item,1 carry-on bag up to 8 kg, and 1 checked bag up to 23 kg.

What type of hotels will we stay in?

Accommodation is provided in carefully selected 4-star hotels, ideally located to ensure a smooth and well-balanced travel experience.

Are meals included?

A daily buffet breakfast is included, along with one dinner in Agrigento.

Are entrance fees included?

Entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites, and attractions are not included, unless otherwise stated in the itinerary.

Is this trip suitable for couples?

Yes. This trip is ideal for couples and travellers looking for a thoughtfully designed experience filled with culture, breathtaking scenery, history, and the unique atmosphere of the Mediterranean.

Is there a Greek tour leader?

Yes. An experienced Greek tour leader accompanies the group throughout the journey, ensuring smooth organisation, continuous support, and peace of mind.
from1,010 € /person
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From booking to your return, we are by your side every step of the way.
Every trip is curated down to the last detail.
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Personal support before and during your trip.
Authentic experiences beyond the ordinary.
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